Head to head

American Express Gold Card vs. United Explorer Card

On the criteria below, American Express Gold Card wins 2 of 3. The verdict depends on which criteria matter to you.

American Express Gold Card

Amex

Chase

At a glance

American Express Gold Card wins 2 of 3 criteria here, making it the stronger all-rounder.

American Express Gold Card wins on first-year math and earning ceiling; United Explorer Card wins on annual fee.

Pick the American Express Gold Card if year-one math is your priority; take the United Explorer Card if you want a cheaper card to keep long-term.

2 vs 1

First-year math American Express Gold Card

American Express Gold Card wins on bonus value minus annual fee.
Annual fee United Explorer Card

United Explorer Card is $175 cheaper to keep.
Earning ceiling American Express Gold Card

American Express Gold Card earns more on its best category (5× vs 2×).

Annual fee: $325; $150
Welcome offer (typical value): $1,600; $910
First-year net: +$1,275; +$760
Peak earning rate: 5×; 2×
Top categories: Dining Worldwide, U.S. Supermarkets, Prepaid Hotels; Airfare, Hotels Resorts, Dining
Lounge access: No; No
Travel insurance: Yes; Yes
Elite status: Yes; No
Foreign transaction fee: None; None
Reward currency: American Express Membership Rewards; United MileagePlus

Welcome-offer dollar values use each program's typical-tier valuation from our signup bonus calculator. See the methodology page for sourcing details.