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Side-by-side

Chase Freedom Flex vs Chase Freedom Unlimited

Both are cashback travel cards. The Chase Freedom Flex comes from Chase at $0/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

Both cards come from Chase and target cashback spenders, so the choice usually comes down to whether you'll use the premium-tier benefits. The Chase Freedom Unlimited costs $0 more per year, only worth it if you'll actually use the upgraded perks.

FeatureChase Freedom FlexChase Freedom Unlimited
Annual fee$0$0
Sign-up bonus$200 cash back$200 bonus
Bonus value (est.)$200$200
Min spend to unlock bonus$500 in 3 mo$500 in 3 mo
IssuerChaseChase
Card categorycashbackcashback
Best earning category (Rotating)5x1x
Transfer partnerschase-urchase-ur
Headline benefits
  • 5% rotating categories
  • 3% dining + drugstores
  • No annual fee
  • Cell phone protection
  • 1.5% everywhere
  • 5% on travel via Chase
  • 3% dining + drugstores
  • Free if paired with Sapphire
Read the full review
Chase Freedom Flex
$0/yr · $200 cash back
Read the full review
Chase Freedom Unlimited
$0/yr · $200 bonus

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.

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, Chase Freedom Flex or Chase Freedom Unlimited?
The two cards offer comparable sign-up bonuses around $200. Pick based on which earning categories you actually use.
Is the Chase Freedom Flex's $0 annual fee worth it compared to the Chase Freedom Unlimited?
The Chase Freedom Flex has no annual fee, so the question is whether the Chase Freedom Unlimited's $0 fee is justified by its perks. If you'll use enough of the Chase Freedom Unlimited's benefits to clear $0 in value annually, it's worth it; otherwise stick with the Chase Freedom Flex.
Can I have both the Chase Freedom Flex and Chase Freedom Unlimited?
Yes, though both are issued by Chase so the same issuer-specific application rules apply (Chase 5/24 if applicable, Amex once-per-lifetime bonus, etc.). 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 Chase Freedom Flex or the Chase Freedom Unlimited first?
Get the one whose sign-up bonus you can hit comfortably without overspending. Chase Freedom Flex: $500 spend in 3 months. 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.