Head to head

Chase Freedom Flex vs. Discover it Student Cash Back

On the criteria below, Chase Freedom Flex wins 2 of 5. The verdict depends on which criteria matter to you.

Chase Freedom Flex

Chase

Discover

At a glance

Chase Freedom Flex wins 2 of 5 criteria here, making it the stronger all-rounder.

Chase Freedom Flex wins on first-year math and travel insurance; Discover it Student Cash Back wins on foreign transactions.

Pick the Chase Freedom Flex if year-one math is your priority.

2 vs 1 (2 tie)

First-year math Chase Freedom Flex

Chase Freedom Flex wins on bonus value minus annual fee.
Annual fee Tie

Same annual fee.
Earning ceiling Tie

Same peak earning rate.
Travel insurance Chase Freedom Flex

Chase Freedom Flex carries built-in travel insurance.
Foreign transactions Discover it Student Cash Back

Discover it Student Cash Back has a lower (or zero) foreign transaction fee.

Annual fee: Free; Free
Welcome offer (typical value): $200; —
First-year net: +$200; +$0
Peak earning rate: 5×; 5×
Top categories: Rotating Quarterly, Chase Travel, Dining; Rotating Quarterly
Lounge access: No; No
Travel insurance: Yes; No
Elite status: No; No
Foreign transaction fee: 3.00%; None
Reward currency: Chase Ultimate Rewards; Discover Cashback

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