The Chase Freedom Flex and the Amex EveryDay Credit Card from American Express are two of the most popular starter travel cards offered by two of the largest card issuers. Both cards have their own unique benefits and features that make them appealing to different types of cardholders. In this article, we will compare the two cards and help you determine which one may be the best fit for you and your wallet.
First, let’s take a look at the welcome bonuses offered by each card. The Chase Freedom Flex currently offers a $200 cash back bonus after you spend $500 on purchases in the first three months from account opening. On the other hand, the Amex EveryDay Credit Card offers 10,000 points after you use your new card to make $2,000 in purchases within the first six months of card membership. According to The Points Guy’s valuations, 10,000 points are worth $200, so these offers are essentially even in terms of value. However, if you have another Chase card that allows you to convert your cash back to Chase points, the value of the Freedom Flex’s welcome bonus could be even more valuable.
Next, let’s compare the benefits offered by each card. The Freedom Flex offers standard no-annual-fee card benefits such as cellphone protection, purchase protection, zero liability protection, extended warranty protection, and trip cancellation/interruption insurance. In addition, cardholders also receive three months of complimentary DashPass with DoorDash, which provides free delivery on eligible orders and reduced service fees. On the other hand, the Amex EveryDay Credit Card offers benefits such as car rental loss and damage insurance, access to the Global Assist Hotline, and enrollment in Amex’s Membership Rewards program. Cardholders also have the option to use the Pay with Points program to book flights or hotel stays. The benefits offered by both cards are relatively comparable, so the best card for you will depend on which perks you value more.
Now, let’s discuss the earning rates for each card. The Freedom Flex offers impressive earning rates in various categories. Cardholders earn 5% cash back on up to $1,500 in purchases on quarterly bonus categories (activation required, 1% cash back after that), 5% back on Lyft rides through March 2025, 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards, 3% cash back on dining and at restaurants (including takeout and eligible delivery services), 3% cash back on drugstore purchases, and 1% cash back on all other purchases. These earning rates are especially attractive for a no-annual-fee card. On the other hand, the Amex EveryDay Credit Card offers 2 points per dollar on purchases at U.S. supermarkets (up to $6,000 in spending each year, then 1 point per dollar) and 1 point per dollar on all other purchases. The Freedom Flex’s earning categories are more diverse and offer higher earning rates in certain categories, so if you don’t spend a significant amount at supermarkets, the Freedom Flex may be the better option for you.
When it comes to redeeming rewards, the Freedom Flex earns cash back that can be combined with points from other Chase cards if you have a Chase Sapphire Preferred, Chase Sapphire Reserve, or Ink Business Preferred Credit Card. By doing so, you gain access to the complete range of redemption options within the Chase Ultimate Rewards program, which can greatly increase the value of your rewards. On the other hand, rewards earned with the Amex EveryDay Credit Card can be redeemed as cash back, for Amazon purchases, gift cards, and more. However, the best value is typically obtained by redeeming for travel through Amex’s 21 airline and hotel partners. The value of the two card’s redemptions is about equal, but pairing your Freedom Flex with another popular Chase card allows you to maximize the value of your earned rewards.
Both Chase and Amex have valuable hotel and airline transfer partners, which is why their loyalty programs are highly regarded. Chase has 14 airline and hotel partners, including Hyatt, United, British Airways, and Singapore Airlines. Amex allows transfers to U.S.-based programs like Delta SkyMiles and JetBlue TrueBlue, but you may get more value by leveraging international airline programs. The transfer options are comparable, so it’s a tie in this category.
In conclusion, the Chase Freedom Flex and the Amex EveryDay Credit Card are both excellent starter travel cards that offer valuable rewards without an annual fee. The Freedom Flex stands out as a exceptional cash-back credit card with diverse earning rates and strong benefits. On the other hand, the Amex EveryDay can still provide value with its strategic card spending and valuable Amex points. The best card for you will depend on your spending habits and which benefits and rewards you value the most.