Head to head

Chase Freedom Unlimited vs. Chase Sapphire Preferred

On the criteria below, Chase Sapphire Preferred wins 2 of 4. The verdict depends on which criteria matter to you.

Chase Freedom Unlimited

Chase

Chase

At a glance

Chase Sapphire Preferred wins 2 of 4 criteria here, making it the stronger all-rounder.

Chase Freedom Unlimited wins on annual fee; Chase Sapphire Preferred wins on first-year math and foreign transactions.

Pick the Chase Sapphire Preferred if year-one math is your priority; take the Chase Freedom Unlimited if you want a cheaper card to keep long-term.

1 vs 2 (1 tie)

First-year math Chase Sapphire Preferred

Chase Sapphire Preferred wins on bonus value minus annual fee.
Annual fee Chase Freedom Unlimited

Chase Freedom Unlimited is $95 cheaper to keep.
Earning ceiling Tie

Same peak earning rate.
Foreign transactions Chase Sapphire Preferred

Chase Sapphire Preferred has a lower (or zero) foreign transaction fee.

Annual fee: Free; $95
Welcome offer (typical value): $200; $1,275
First-year net: +$200; +$1,180
Peak earning rate: 5×; 5×
Top categories: Chase Travel, Dining, Drugstores; Chase Travel Portal, Dining, Travel
Lounge access: No; No
Travel insurance: Yes; Yes
Elite status: No; No
Foreign transaction fee: 3.00%; None
Reward currency: Chase Ultimate Rewards; Chase Ultimate Rewards

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