United℠ Explorer Card vs. Citi Simplicity®
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 →
Citi Simplicity®
Citi
4.3
0% intro APR for 21 months on balance transfers. No late fees ever.
Full review →WealthSpott Verdict
Citi Simplicity® 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
Citi Simplicity®
Annual Fee
$95/yr
$0 Best
Sign-up Bonus
60,000 miles
None
Rewards Rate
1x-2x
0%
Rewards Type
Miles
None
0% Intro APR
N/A
0% for 12 months
Regular APR
22.49%-29.49% Variable
18.49%-28.99% 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
Citi Simplicity®
Pros
- 0% intro APR for 21 months on balance transfers
- No annual fee
- No late fees — ever
Cons
- No rewards program
- 3% foreign transaction fee
- Purchase APR intro only 12 months
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