Head to head

Chase Sapphire Preferred vs. United Gateway Card

Even split across the criteria below. Pick the one whose strengths match how you'll actually use it.

Chase Sapphire Preferred

Chase

United Gateway Card

Chase

At a glance

Chase Sapphire Preferred and United Gateway Card split the criteria evenly. Neither is the obvious all-rounder; the right pick depends on which dimensions matter to you.

Chase Sapphire Preferred wins on first-year math; United Gateway Card wins on annual fee.

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

Who wins what

1 vs 1 (1 tie)
  • First-year math Chase Sapphire Preferred

    Chase Sapphire Preferred wins on bonus value minus annual fee.

  • Annual fee United Gateway Card

    United Gateway Card is $95 cheaper to keep.

  • Earning ceiling Tie

    Same peak earning rate.

By the numbers

Annual fee
$95
Free
Welcome offer (typical value)
$1,275
$520
First-year net
+$1,180
+$520
Peak earning rate
Top categories
Chase Travel Portal, Dining, Travel
Airfare, Travel, Gas
Lounge access
No
No
Travel insurance
Yes
Yes
Elite status
No
No
Foreign transaction fee
None
None
Reward currency
Chase Ultimate 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.