Choosing Between Chase Sapphire Preferred and Sapphire Reserve: Is Mid-Tier or Premium Right for You?

The battle between the Chase Sapphire Reserve® and the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card continues to captivate credit card enthusiasts. Both cards offer valuable benefits, top-notch rewards programs, and excellent travel protections. But which one is the best fit for you?

While the Sapphire Reserve may seem like the obvious choice with its higher annual fee and luxury perks, the Sapphire Preferred could be a more attractive option depending on your spending habits and travel goals. Let’s break down the comparison between the two cards to help you make an informed decision.

In terms of annual fees, the Sapphire Preferred comes in at $95, while the Sapphire Reserve costs $550. The earning rates differ as well, with the Reserve offering higher points per dollar on various categories such as hotels, car rentals, and dining.

Both cards currently offer an identical welcome bonus of 75,000 points after spending $4,000 in the first three months. The value for Ultimate Rewards travel redemptions is also higher with the Reserve at 1.5 cents compared to the Preferred’s 1.25 cents.

When it comes to benefits, the Sapphire Reserve shines with its $300 annual travel credit, airport lounge access, and enhanced travel protections. The Preferred, on the other hand, offers a $50 annual hotel credit and other perks like DoorDash DashPass and Instacart+ membership.

In terms of earning and redeeming points, the Reserve edges out the Preferred with higher earning rates and redemption values through the Ultimate Rewards portal and Pay Yourself Back option.

Ultimately, the choice between the Sapphire Preferred and Sapphire Reserve depends on your travel preferences and spending habits. Both cards offer excellent benefits and rewards, making them solid options for frequent travelers and credit card enthusiasts alike.