United℠ Explorer Card vs. American Express® Business Gold Card
Side-by-side comparison · Updated 2026 · Independently reviewed
United℠ Explorer Card
Chase
4.2
Free 1st + 2nd checked bags. 60,000-mile bonus. 2x on United, dining, hotel.
Full review →
American Express® Business Gold Card
American Express
4.4
4x on top 2 spending categories. 100,000-point bonus.
Full review →WealthSpott Verdict
United℠ Explorer Card and American Express® Business Gold Card are closely matched. The right choice depends on your top spending categories and whether you'll use each card's perks.
Feature
United℠ Explorer Card
American Express® Business
Annual Fee
$95/yr Best
$375/yr
Sign-up Bonus
60,000 miles
100,000 points
Rewards Rate
1x-2x
1x-4x
Rewards Type
Miles
Points
0% Intro APR
N/A
N/A
Regular APR
22.49%-29.49% Variable
19.49%-27.49% Variable Best
Foreign Transaction Fee
None
None
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
American Express® Business Gold Card
Pros
- 4x on top two business spending categories
- Points transfer to 20+ airline/hotel partners
- 100,000-point sign-up bonus
Cons
- $375 annual fee
- $150k annual cap on 4x categories
- $10,000 minimum spend for bonus
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