Chase Freedom Flex vs. Chase Sapphire Preferred

Though the Chase Sapphire Preferred can be exceptionally valuable in terms of travel rewards, it’s a bit overshadowed by the Chase Freedom Flex’s flexibility.

With the Chase Sapphire Preferred, cardholders can earn:

• 5X points on travel booked through Chase Travel℠
• 5X total points on Lyft rides (through Sept. 30, 2027)
• 3X points on dining, select streaming services and online grocery purchases (excluding Target, Walmart and wholesale clubs)
• 2X points on general travel purchases
• 1X points on everything else

On the other hand, the Chase Freedom Flex offers a more tempting rewards earning rate for those who are able to maximize it. You’ll start off by earning 5 percent cash back on up to $1,500 spent in rotating quarterly bonus categories after activation (then 1 percent). On top of that, you’ll earn:

• 5 percent back on travel booked through Chase Travel℠
• 3 percent back on dining and drugstore purchases
• 1 percent back on everything else

While Freedom Flex rewards are marketed as “cash back,” they’re earned as Chase Ultimate Rewards points. As a result, the Freedom Flex can function as a less expensive travel credit card option that offers more flexibility in their 5 percent category compared to the Sapphire Preferred. Considering there’s no annual fee, it makes it a potentially more rewarding option.