Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® vs. United℠ Explorer Card
Side-by-side comparison · Updated 2026 · Independently reviewed
Marriott Bonvoy Boundless®
Chase
4.4
3 free night awards. 6x at Marriott. Annual free night certificate.
Full review →United℠ Explorer Card
Chase
4.2
Free 1st + 2nd checked bags. 60,000-mile bonus. 2x on United, dining, hotel.
Full review →WealthSpott Verdict
Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® wins on more measurable categories — particularly annual cost. United℠ Explorer Card may still win for your wallet depending on how you spend.
Feature
Marriott Bonvoy Boundless®
United℠ Explorer Card
Annual Fee
$95/yr
$95/yr
Sign-up Bonus
3 free night awards
60,000 miles
Rewards Rate
2x-6x
1x-2x
Rewards Type
Points
Miles
0% Intro APR
N/A
N/A
Regular APR
21.49%-28.49% Variable Best
22.49%-29.49% Variable
Foreign Transaction Fee
None
None
Recommended Credit Score
670-850
670-850
Marriott Bonvoy Boundless®
Pros
- 3 free night awards as sign-up bonus
- Annual free night certificate (up to 35k points)
- 6x at Marriott properties
- Automatic Silver Elite status
Cons
- $95 annual fee
- Rewards tied to Marriott ecosystem only
- Points devaluation risk with award chart changes
United℠ Explorer Card
Pros
- Free first and second checked bags on United
- 60,000-mile sign-up bonus
- Two United Club passes per year
- 2x on United, dining, and hotels
Cons
- $95 annual fee
- Miles tied to United/Star Alliance
- Standard 1x earning on non-bonus purchases
Not sure which card is right for you?
Browse all credit cards