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Avianca LifeMiles American Express Elite Card vs Chase Freedom Unlimited
Both are well-respected travel cards. The Avianca LifeMiles American Express Elite Card comes from Cardless at $249/yr; the Chase Freedom Unlimited 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 Unlimited, 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 Unlimited |
|---|---|---|
| Annual fee | $249 | $0 |
| Sign-up bonus | Not advertised | $200 bonus |
| 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 Unlimited
$0/yr · $200 bonus
Editorial take: Chase Freedom Unlimited
The best no-fee cash back card in the Chase family. Stack it with a Sapphire and your cash back converts into transferable Ultimate Rewards points, a free upgrade most people miss. Note: Cell phone protection is on Freedom Flex, not Freedom Unlimited.
Common questions
- Which card has the bigger sign-up bonus, Avianca LifeMiles American Express Elite Card or Chase Freedom Unlimited?
- The Chase Freedom Unlimited has a public bonus ($200 bonus, 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 Unlimited?
- 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 Unlimited's, pick the one whose perks you'll actually use.
- Can I have both the Avianca LifeMiles American Express Elite Card and Chase Freedom Unlimited?
- 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 Unlimited 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 Unlimited: $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.