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Capital One Spark Cash vs United Gateway℠ Card
This comparison aims to help users decide between the Capital One Spark Cash and the United Gateway℠ Card. By examining their features, rewards, and benefits, you can find the card that best suits your needs.
Card Overviews
Capital One Spark Cash
The Capital One Spark Cash is designed for businesses seeking to earn unlimited 2% cash back on all purchases. It offers a robust rewards structure, making it ideal for business owners who want straightforward cash back without worrying about category restrictions.
United Gateway℠ Card
The United Gateway℠ Card is tailored for travelers, particularly those who frequently fly with United Airlines. This card allows users to earn miles on a variety of purchases, making it a solid choice for those who prioritize travel rewards and want to maximize their benefits when flying.
Detailed Feature Comparison
| Feature | Capital One Spark Cash | United Gateway℠ Card |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Fee | $0 intro for first year; $95 after that | $0 |
| Welcome Bonus | Earn $750 cash back once you spend $7,500 in the first 3 months | Earn 20,000 bonus miles after you spend $1,000 in the first 3 months |
| Rewards Structure | 2% cash back on every purchase | 2x miles on United® purchases, gas stations, and local transit; 1x mile on all other purchases |
| Foreign Transaction Fee | $0 | $0 |
| Other Fees | None specified | None specified |
| Additional Benefits | Free employee cards, no expiration on rewards | 25% back on food, beverages, and Wi-Fi on United flights |
Rewards Highlights
Capital One Spark Cash
- Earn $750 cash back once you spend $7,500 in the first 3 months from account opening
- 5% cash back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
- 2% cash back on every purchase
United Gateway℠ Card
- Earn 20,000 bonus miles after you spend $1,000 on purchases in the first 3 months your account is open
- 2x miles on United® purchases, at gas stations, and on local transit and commuting
- 1x mile on all other purchases
Pros and Cons
Capital One Spark Cash Pros
- Unlimited 2% cash back on all purchases
- Free employee cards
- No foreign transaction fees
- Significant welcome bonus
Capital One Spark Cash Cons
- $95 annual fee after the first year
- Higher spending requirement for the welcome bonus
United Gateway℠ Card Pros
- No annual fee
- Bonus miles with a lower spending requirement
- 25% back on select purchases on United flights
United Gateway℠ Card Cons
- Lower rewards rate on non-United purchases
- Limited to United Airlines benefits
Who Should Consider Which Card?
- The Capital One Spark Cash is ideal for businesses that spend regularly and prefer a simple, straightforward cash back system.
- The United Gateway℠ Card is best suited for frequent United Airlines travelers who want to maximize their travel rewards and enjoy additional benefits while flying.
Conclusion
When choosing between the Capital One Spark Cash and the United Gateway℠ Card, consider your spending habits and financial goals. Whether you seek cash back for business expenses or travel rewards for flights, each card offers unique advantages tailored to different user needs.