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Side-by-side

Chase Freedom Unlimited vs PayPal Cashback Mastercard

Both are cashback travel cards. The Chase Freedom Unlimited comes from Chase at $0/yr; the PayPal Cashback Mastercard from Synchrony 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 UnlimitedPayPal Cashback Mastercard
Annual fee$0$0
Sign-up bonus$200 bonus$200 cash back
Bonus value (est.)$200$200
Min spend to unlock bonus$500 in 3 mo$500 in 3 mo
IssuerChaseSynchrony
Card categorycashbackcashback
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
    Read the full review
    Chase Freedom Unlimited
    $0/yr · $200 bonus
    Read the full review
    PayPal Cashback Mastercard
    $0/yr · $200 cash back

    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: PayPal Cashback Mastercard

    Common questions

    Which card has the bigger sign-up bonus, Chase Freedom Unlimited or PayPal Cashback Mastercard?
    The two cards offer comparable sign-up bonuses around $200. Pick based on which earning categories you actually use.
    Is the Chase Freedom Unlimited's $0 annual fee worth it compared to the PayPal Cashback Mastercard?
    The Chase Freedom Unlimited has no annual fee, so the question is whether the PayPal Cashback Mastercard's $0 fee is justified by its perks. If you'll use enough of the PayPal Cashback Mastercard'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 PayPal Cashback Mastercard?
    Yes, since they're from different issuers (Chase and Synchrony) 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 Chase Freedom Unlimited or the PayPal Cashback Mastercard first?
    Get the one whose sign-up bonus you can hit comfortably without overspending. Chase Freedom Unlimited: $500 spend in 3 months. PayPal Cashback Mastercard: $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.