United℠ Explorer Card vs. Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express

Side-by-side comparison · Updated 2026 · Independently reviewed

Chase logo
United℠ Explorer Card
Chase
4.2

Free 1st + 2nd checked bags. 60,000-mile bonus. 2x on United, dining, hotel.

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American Express logo
Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express
American Express
4.5

3% at U.S. supermarkets, gas stations, and online retail.

Full review →
WealthSpott Verdict

Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express wins on more measurable categories — particularly annual cost. United℠ Explorer Card may still win for your wallet depending on your spending patterns.

Feature
United℠ Explorer Card
Blue Cash Everyday®
Annual Fee
$95/yr
$0 Best
Sign-up Bonus
60,000 miles
None
Rewards Rate
1x-2x
1%-3%
Rewards Type
Miles
Cash Back
0% Intro APR
N/A
0% for 15 months
Regular APR
22.49%-29.49% Variable
19.24%-29.99% Variable Best
Foreign Transaction Fee
None Best
Yes
Recommended Credit Score
670-850
670-850
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
Full review
Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express
Pros
  • 3% at U.S. supermarkets, gas stations, and online retail
  • No annual fee
  • 0% intro APR for 15 months
Cons
  • Foreign transaction fee
  • 3% categories cap at $6,000/year then drop to 1%
Full review

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