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Side-by-side

Chase Freedom Unlimited vs IHG One Rewards Traveler

Both are well-respected travel cards. The Chase Freedom Unlimited comes from Chase at $0/yr; the IHG One Rewards Traveler from Chase at $0/yr. Below: side-by-side specs, an opinionated verdict, and the FAQs people actually ask before applying.

Bottom line

These cards are close on the fundamentals (similar bonus value, similar fee). The right pick depends on which category you spend the most in and which transfer partners best fit your travel goals.

FeatureChase Freedom UnlimitedIHG One Rewards Traveler
Annual fee$0$0
Sign-up bonus$200 bonus80,000 points
Bonus value (est.)$200$480
Min spend to unlock bonus$500 in 3 mo$2,000 in 3 mo
IssuerChaseChase
Card categorycashbackhotel
Best earning category (Travel)5x1x
Transfer partnerschase-urNone
Headline benefits
  • 1.5% everywhere
  • 5% on travel via Chase
  • 3% dining + drugstores
  • Free if paired with Sapphire
  • 4th night free on awards
  • 17x at IHG
  • No annual fee
  • Silver status
Read the full review
Chase Freedom Unlimited
$0/yr · $200 bonus
Read the full review
IHG One Rewards Traveler
$0/yr · 80,000 points

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.

Editorial take: IHG One Rewards Traveler

The 4th-night-free benefit alone makes this a standout, on a 4-night IHG stay, you're effectively getting 25% off. Stack with transfer bonuses from Chase UR for serious savings.

Common questions

Which card has the bigger sign-up bonus, Chase Freedom Unlimited or IHG One Rewards Traveler?
The IHG One Rewards Traveler has the bigger bonus, 80,000 points, worth roughly $480, versus $200 bonus (~$200) on the Chase Freedom Unlimited.
Is the Chase Freedom Unlimited's $0 annual fee worth it compared to the IHG One Rewards Traveler?
The Chase Freedom Unlimited has no annual fee, so the question is whether the IHG One Rewards Traveler's $0 fee is justified by its perks. If you'll use enough of the IHG One Rewards Traveler's benefits to clear $0 in value annually, it's worth it; otherwise stick with the Chase Freedom Unlimited.
Can I have both the Chase Freedom Unlimited and IHG One Rewards Traveler?
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 Unlimited or the IHG One Rewards Traveler first?
Get the one whose sign-up bonus you can hit comfortably without overspending. Chase Freedom Unlimited: $500 spend in 3 months. IHG One Rewards Traveler: $2,000 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.