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Avianca LifeMiles American Express Elite Card vs Chase Freedom Flex
Both are well-respected travel cards. The Avianca LifeMiles American Express Elite Card comes from Cardless at $249/yr; the Chase Freedom Flex from Chase at $0/yr. Below: side-by-side specs, an opinionated verdict, and the FAQs people actually ask before applying.
Bottom line
If you're not sure you'll use premium perks, start with the Chase Freedom Flex, its annual fee is significantly lower and the bonus values are similar. Upgrade later if you find yourself using the higher-tier benefits.
| Feature | Avianca LifeMiles American Express Elite Card | Chase Freedom Flex |
|---|---|---|
| Annual fee | $249 | $0 |
| Sign-up bonus | Not advertised | $200 cash back |
| Bonus value (est.) | - | $200 |
| Min spend to unlock bonus | - | $500 in 3 mo |
| Issuer | Cardless | Chase |
| Card category | travel | cashback |
| Best earning category (Airline) | 3x | 1x |
| Transfer partners | None | chase-ur |
| Headline benefits |
|
Read the full review
Avianca LifeMiles American Express Elite Card
$249/yr ·
Read the full review
Chase Freedom Flex
$0/yr · $200 cash back
Editorial take: Chase Freedom Flex
Worth it only if you'll actually activate the rotating 5% categories every quarter. If you won't, the Freedom Unlimited earns more on everyday spend with zero effort.
Common questions
- Which card has the bigger sign-up bonus, Avianca LifeMiles American Express Elite Card or Chase Freedom Flex?
- The Chase Freedom Flex has a public bonus ($200 cash back, worth roughly $200), while the Avianca LifeMiles American Express Elite Card doesn't advertise one right now.
- Is the Avianca LifeMiles American Express Elite Card's $249 annual fee worth it compared to the Chase Freedom Flex?
- At $249/yr, the Avianca LifeMiles American Express Elite Card is in the mid-fee tier. Compare its specific perks (lounge access, travel credits, primary rental insurance) to the Chase Freedom Flex's, pick the one whose perks you'll actually use.
- Can I have both the Avianca LifeMiles American Express Elite Card and Chase Freedom Flex?
- Yes, since they're from different issuers (Cardless and Chase) the application rules don't conflict. Many points enthusiasts hold both, they pair well when one earns flexible bank points and the other earns a different currency.
- Should I get the Avianca LifeMiles American Express Elite Card or the Chase Freedom Flex first?
- Get the one whose sign-up bonus you can hit comfortably without overspending. Avianca LifeMiles American Express Elite Card: no published min spend. Chase Freedom Flex: $500 in 3 months. Pick the easier minimum spend if you're new to points; pick the larger bonus if you have planned big purchases coming up.
Card details on this page reflect the most recent data we've verified against the issuer's own site. Sign-up bonuses and fees can change at any time, confirm the current offer on the issuer's page before applying.