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Side-by-side
Avianca LifeMiles American Express Elite Card vs United Gateway Card
Both are travel travel cards. The Avianca LifeMiles American Express Elite Card comes from Cardless at $249/yr; the United Gateway Card 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 United Gateway Card, 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 | United Gateway Card |
|---|---|---|
| Annual fee | $249 | $0 |
| Sign-up bonus | Not advertised | 30,000 miles |
| Bonus value (est.) | - | $390 |
| Min spend to unlock bonus | - | $1,000 in 3 mo |
| Issuer | Cardless | Chase |
| Card category | travel | travel |
| Best earning category (Airline) | 3x | 1x |
| Transfer partners | None | None |
| Headline benefits |
|
Read the full review
Avianca LifeMiles American Express Elite Card
$249/yr ·
Read the full review
United Gateway Card
$0/yr · 30,000 miles
Editorial take: United Gateway Card
The no-fee United card. Doesn't include free bags (that starts with the Explorer), so it's really only worth it for credit-building purposes.
Common questions
- Which card has the bigger sign-up bonus, Avianca LifeMiles American Express Elite Card or United Gateway Card?
- The United Gateway Card has a public bonus (30,000 miles, worth roughly $390), 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 United Gateway Card?
- 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 United Gateway Card's, pick the one whose perks you'll actually use.
- Can I have both the Avianca LifeMiles American Express Elite Card and United Gateway Card?
- 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 United Gateway Card first?
- Get the one whose sign-up bonus you can hit comfortably without overspending. Avianca LifeMiles American Express Elite Card: no published min spend. United Gateway Card: $1,000 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.