Chase Sapphire Reserve Vs. Chase Sapphire Preferred

When it comes to premium credit cards, Chase has put forth significant efforts to stand out in the financial industry, creating two strong contenders: the Chase Sapphire Reserve and the Chase Sapphire Preferred.

Ins and Outs of Welcome Offers

As of 2022, the Chase Sapphire Preferred holders can earn 60,000 bonus points after spending $4,000 on purchases within the first three months from account opening ([Chase Sapphire Preferred](https://creditcards.chase.com/a1/sapphire/preferred)). On the other hand, the Chase Sapphire Reserve offers 50,000 bonus points after spending the same amount in the same timeframe ([Chase Sapphire Reserve](https://creditcards.chase.com/rewards-credit-cards/chase-sapphire-reserve)).

So, if you’re looking for the higher sign-up bonus, at first glance, the Preferred card takes the lead.

Clearing Up the Confusion about Fees

Credit cards come with annual fees, and these two are no exception. The Sapphire Reserve charges an annual fee of $550, while the Preferred keeps it lighter on the wallet at $95. This significant difference is due to the varied range of benefits, which we will look at next.

Perks and Benefits Showdown

One of the most remarkable features of the Sapphire Reserve is the $300 annual travel credit, significantly offsetting the high annual fee. It also offers exclusive access to airport lounges worldwide, which you won’t get with the Preferred ([Chase Sapphire Reserve](https://creditcards.chase.com/rewards-credit-cards/chase-sapphire-reserve)).

The Sapphire Preferred, though less extravagant in its perks, does offer an attractive 2X points on travel and dining and 1 point per dollar on all other purchases. A truly handy bonus for the less frequent traveler or diner.

Points Perks: Reserve’s Massive Advantage

With Reserve, your redemption value for travel purchases through the Chase Ultimate Rewards portal jumps by 50%, amounting to a 1.5X increase. So those 50,000 points could be worth $750!

Meanwhile, the Sapphire Preferred gains you 1.25X value when redeeming for travel through the Chase Ultimate Rewards program, meaning the 60,000 bonus points could be worth $750 too.

What’s Best for Who?

Choosing between the Preferred or the Reserve depends on your lifestyle. The Reserve, with its broader range of high-end travel benefits (despite a higher annual fee), is a clear winner for frequent travelers. It could also be desirable if you usually dine out and can take full advantage of the 3X bonus points on dining.

The Preferred, on the other hand, is more suited for the occasional traveler or someone just beginning their journey in the world of reward points and travels. It offers a good balance between cost (lower annual fee) and benefits.

In the war between Chase Sapphire Reserve vs. Sapphire Preferred, the victor really depends on the individual wielding the card. It’s essential to assess your spending habits, travel frequency, and what perks and benefits align with your specific needs before choosing a card.