Choosing between the Citi Premier® Card and Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card can be a close call. Both target frequent travelers with attractive rewards programs and travel benefits, but with slight variations. Let’s explore their strengths to help you pick the card that best fuels your wanderlust.
Head-to-Head: Citi Premier vs. Chase Sapphire Preferred
| Feature | Citi Premier® Card | Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card |
|---|---|---|
| Rewards Rate | 3x ThankYou® Points on groceries, supermarkets, gas stations, and restaurants (including takeout & delivery), 1x point on all other purchases | 2x points on travel and dining, 1x point on all other purchases |
| Bonus Category | Wider range of everyday spending categories (groceries, gas stations) | More focused travel and dining bonus |
| Travel Redemption | Transfer points to travel partners or redeem for statement credits towards travel at 1 cent per point. | Transfer points to travel partners or redeem for travel through Chase Ultimate Rewards® at 1.25 cents per point. |
| Annual Fee | $95 | $95 |
| Travel Credits | Up to $100 Hotel Credit (annual) | Up to $95 annual travel credit for travel purchases booked through Chase Ultimate Rewards® |
| Travel Insurance | Limited trip cancellation/interruption insurance | Trip cancellation/interruption insurance, baggage delay insurance, rental car insurance (primary for some rentals) |
Also Read: Amex Platinum Vs Chase Sapphire Reserve
Features:
- Citi Premier: Offers a broader range of bonus categories that encompass everyday spending like groceries and gas stations, allowing you to rack up points faster. However, points have a base redemption value of 1 cent per point unless transferred to travel partners.
- Chase Sapphire Preferred: Focuses on travel and dining with a slightly lower bonus rate on those categories compared to Citi Premier. However, points hold more value when redeemed through Chase travel portal (1.25 cents per point) and offer transfer options to a wider variety of travel partners. Additionally, it boasts more comprehensive travel insurance.
Who Should Get Which Card:
- Citi Premier: Ideal for those who spend heavily on groceries, gas, and dining, and prioritize a wider range of bonus categories. It’s a good option for budget-conscious travelers who can maximize points transfer to travel partners for potentially better redemption value.
- Chase Sapphire Preferred: A good fit for travelers who prioritize travel and dining rewards, value travel insurance, and prefer the flexibility of transferring points to a broader network of travel partners. The higher redemption value through Chase travel portal can be advantageous.
Pros and Cons: Citi Premier
- Pros: Wider range of bonus categories, easier to earn points on everyday spending, potentially higher rewards value with points transfer.
- Cons: Lower base redemption value for points (unless transferred), limited travel insurance.
Pros and Cons: Chase Sapphire Preferred
- Pros: More comprehensive travel insurance, higher redemption value for points through Chase travel portal, wider variety of travel partners for point transfer.
- Cons: Narrower bonus categories, slightly lower rewards rate on dining compared to Citi Premier.
Requirements:
Both cards typically require good credit (generally a score of 700 or above). While Citi doesn’t disclose a specific income requirement, Chase Sapphire Preferred recommends a minimum annual income of $40,000.
The Takeaway:
The Citi Premier caters to budget-conscious travelers who spend heavily on everyday purchases and can leverage points transfers. Chase Sapphire Preferred offers a more robust travel package with insurance, higher redemption value through its portal, and a wider range of travel partners. Consider your spending habits, travel style, and desired travel insurance coverage to pick the card that takes your adventures further.