United℠ Explorer Card vs. Chase Freedom Flex®
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 →WealthSpott Verdict
Chase Freedom Flex® 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
Chase Freedom Flex®
Annual Fee
$95/yr
$0 Best
Sign-up Bonus
60,000 miles
$200
Rewards Rate
1x-2x
1%-5%
Rewards Type
Miles
Cash Back
0% Intro APR
N/A
0% for 15 months
Regular APR
22.49%-29.49% Variable
20.49%-29.24% 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
Chase Freedom Flex®
Pros
- 5% in rotating categories + 3% dining/drugstores
- No annual fee
- Pairs well with Sapphire for point transfers
Cons
- Must activate rotating categories quarterly
- 3% foreign transaction fee
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