If you’re looking for a top-tier travel rewards credit card that combines value, flexibility, and user-friendly perks, the Chase Sapphire Preferred card remains one of the most talked-about options in 2025. With recent updates to its benefits and a refreshed welcome offer, the card continues to deliver outstanding value for both frequent and occasional travelers—especially as its premium sibling, the Chase Sapphire Reserve credit card, undergoes a major overhaul and fee hike.
This year, the Chase Sapphire Preferred card stands out for its $95 annual fee, generous rewards structure, and an array of protections and credits that make it a standout choice for savvy spenders. Let’s dive into what makes this card special and how it compares in today’s competitive landscape.
What’s New with the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card in 2025
The Chase Sapphire Preferred card has seen several notable updates in recent months, cementing its reputation as a best-in-class travel credit card. The current welcome offer is 60,000 Ultimate Rewards points after spending $5,000 within the first three months of account opening—a deal that can be worth at least $750 in travel when redeemed through Chase Travel, and potentially over $1,200 if transferred to airline or hotel partners.
Rewards rates are also compelling:
- 5x points on travel booked via Chase Travel
- 3x points on dining, online grocery purchases, and select streaming services
- 2x points on all other travel purchases
- 1x point on all other purchases
Cardholders enjoy a $50 annual hotel credit for bookings made through Chase Travel, which effectively brings the annual fee down to $45 for those who use the credit. The card also offers a 10% anniversary point bonus each year, adding extra value for loyal users.
Key Benefits and Protections
The Chase Sapphire Preferred card is packed with valuable features designed to protect and reward travelers:
- No foreign transaction fees: Ideal for international travel, saving you money on every purchase abroad.
- Travel and purchase protections: Includes trip cancellation, interruption insurance, lost luggage coverage, and primary rental car insurance.
- Extended warranty and purchase protection: Covers new purchases against damage or theft for 120 days and extends U.S. manufacturer’s warranties by an additional year on eligible items.
- Points transfer: Points can be transferred at a 1:1 ratio to over a dozen airline and hotel partners, including United, Southwest, JetBlue, Marriott, and Hyatt.
These benefits make the Chase Sapphire Preferred card a reliable companion for any trip, big or small.
Chase Sapphire Preferred vs. Chase Sapphire Reserve Credit Card
As of June 2025, the Chase Sapphire Reserve credit card is undergoing a major transformation, with its annual fee jumping to $795 and a host of new premium perks. While the Reserve card offers superior lounge access, higher rewards on select categories, and exclusive credits, the Preferred card remains the best choice for most travelers due to its affordability and strong rewards structure.
| Feature | Chase Sapphire Preferred | Chase Sapphire Reserve Credit Card (2025) |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Fee | $95 | $795 |
| Welcome Bonus | 60,000 points | Varies (check current offer) |
| Travel Credit | $50 hotel credit | $300 dining, $500 hotel, $300 events |
| Lounge Access | None | Priority Pass, Chase Lounges |
| Points Redemption Value | 1.25 cents per point | Up to 2x value on select bookings |
| Points Transfer Partners | 11 airlines, 3 hotels | Same as Preferred |
| Travel Protections | Strong | Stronger, more premium |
While the Chase Sapphire Reserve credit card is ideal for frequent travelers who value luxury perks, the Chase Sapphire Preferred card is unmatched for value and accessibility.
Who Should Choose the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card?
The Chase Sapphire Preferred card is perfect for:
- Occasional and frequent travelers who want strong rewards and protections
- Budget-conscious cardholders who prefer a low annual fee
- Points maximizers who plan to transfer points to partner airlines and hotels
- International travelers who benefit from no foreign transaction fees
Its simple, straightforward rewards and protections make it a top pick for those who want to get the most out of their spending without paying a hefty annual fee.
Key Point Summary
- Welcome offer: 60,000 points after spending $5,000 in the first three months
- Annual fee: $95, offset by a $50 hotel credit
- Rewards: 5x on Chase Travel, 3x on dining/groceries/streaming, 2x on other travel
- Travel protections: Trip cancellation, rental car insurance, lost luggage, and more
- No foreign transaction fees
- Points transfer to airlines and hotels at 1:1 ratio
- Compared to the Chase Sapphire Reserve credit card: Preferred is more affordable and offers strong value; Reserve is for luxury travelers with a much higher fee
Why the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card Stands Out
In a market flooded with premium cards and rising annual fees, the Chase Sapphire Preferred card continues to shine. Its $95 annual fee is easy to justify with just one or two trips or a few dining purchases each year. The ability to transfer points to top travel partners means your rewards can go much further, especially if you’re flexible with your travel plans.
The recent changes to the Chase Sapphire Reserve credit card—especially the $795 annual fee—make the Preferred card an even more attractive option for most people. Unless you’re a heavy traveler who will use all the Reserve’s premium perks, the Preferred card is likely the better choice.
Ready to maximize your travel rewards and enjoy peace of mind with every trip? Apply for the Chase Sapphire Preferred card today and start earning points on your everyday spending.