Chase Sapphire Preferred vs. Reserve Card Comparison

Chase offers two primary personal credit cards within its Sapphire line: the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card and the Chase Sapphire Reserve®. Both cards earn Chase Ultimate Rewards points, but they differ significantly in their annual fees, earning structures, and associated benefits. The Chase Sapphire Reserve® carries a substantial $795 annual fee, while the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card is priced at $95 annually, with recent updates to its features and benefits.

The Sapphire Preferred® Card offers a tiered earning structure. Cardholders receive 5 points per dollar on travel booked through Chase Travel℠, eligible Lyft rides until September 30, 2027, and qualifying Peloton equipment purchases over $150 until December 31, 2027. It also provides 3 points per dollar on dining, gas, EV charging, vacation homes, online groceries (excluding certain retailers), and select streaming services. Travel booked worldwide earns 2 points per dollar, and all other purchases earn 1 point per dollar. Notably, purchases eligible for the annual $300 travel credit do not earn points.

In contrast, the Sapphire Reserve® card boasts higher earning rates on select categories. It offers 10 points per dollar on qualifying Peloton equipment purchases over $150 until December 31, 2027, and 8 points per dollar on all Chase Travel℠ purchases. Lyft rides earn 5 points per dollar until September 30, 2027. Flights and hotels booked directly yield 4 points per dollar, and dining purchases worldwide earn 3 points per dollar. All other purchases earn 1 point per dollar. Similar to the Preferred card, purchases qualifying for the annual $300 travel credit do not accrue points.

Both cards offer a welcome bonus, with the Sapphire Preferred® Card providing 100,000 bonus points after meeting a $5,000 spending requirement on purchases. The decision between the two cards should be based on an individual's travel habits, spending patterns, and overall points and miles strategy. The Sapphire Reserve® is positioned for frequent travelers who can maximize its premium benefits and offset the higher annual fee, while the Sapphire Preferred® offers a more accessible entry point with strong rewards for everyday spending and travel.