Chase Sapphire Reserve (8.2/10) wins for most people. Wells Fargo Active Cash wins for a specific profile.
Frequent travelers who use airport lounges. Better than Preferred at $500+/month travel spend. Lounge access tips the math.
Apply now →2% flat rate with a welcome bonus. Closest Citi Double Cash competitor. $200 bonus + cell phone protection.
Apply now →| Chase Sapphire Reserve | Wells Fargo Active Cash | |
|---|---|---|
| Claire's score | 8.2/10 | 7.9/10 |
| Price | $550. | — |
| Top strength | $300 travel credit nearly halves the effective fee | Flat 2% on everything, no categories |
| Biggest drawback | $550 annual fee requires high spend to justify | Slightly behind Citi Double Cash in long-term simplicity |
Chase Sapphire Reserve is Claire's recommendation for most people reading this comparison. Score: 8.2/10. Better than Preferred at $500+/month travel spend. Lounge access tips the math.
Wells Fargo Active Cash (7.9/10) is the right choice for a specific situation: 2% flat rate with a welcome bonus. If that describes you, the full review has the complete math.
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