The Chase Sapphire Preferred and Capital One Venture X are two of the most recommended travel credit cards in the U.S. The Sapphire Preferred has a lower annual fee; the Venture X has a higher fee but more credits that can offset it. The right card depends entirely on how you travel and which rewards ecosystem fits your lifestyle.
Side-by-Side Comparison
The Verdict
Choose Chase Sapphire Preferred if: You want a lower annual fee, you value flexibility across 14 transfer partners, or you are newer to travel rewards and want a simpler card to manage. At $95/year, it is the best entry-level premium travel card available.
Choose Capital One Venture X if: You travel frequently enough to use the $300 travel credit every year (which brings the effective annual fee down to $95), you want airport lounge access, or you prefer the simplicity of earning 2x miles on everything.
Chase Sapphire Preferred — Full Review
The Chase Sapphire Preferred is the benchmark travel card for a reason. The 60,000-point welcome bonus is worth $750 in travel through Chase, and the 14 transfer partners include United, Hyatt, and Southwest — some of the most valuable in the industry.
Apply Now — See If You Qualify →Capital One Venture X — Full Review
The Venture X's $395 annual fee looks steep until you factor in the $300 annual travel credit and unlimited Priority Pass lounge access. For frequent travelers who use both benefits, the effective cost is comparable to the Sapphire Preferred.
Apply Now — See If You Qualify →See which travel card you qualify for
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Capital One Venture X worth the annual fee?
For travelers who book at least $300 in travel per year through Capital One Travel, yes — the credit effectively reduces the fee to $95. Add lounge access and the 75,000-mile welcome bonus, and the first-year value is substantial.
Can I have both the Chase Sapphire Preferred and Capital One Venture X?
Yes. Many travelers hold both to maximize transfer partner options and earning rates across different spending categories. However, Chase's 5/24 rule means you should apply for Chase cards before Capital One cards if you are building a travel card portfolio.
What credit score do I need for the Chase Sapphire Preferred?
Chase typically approves applicants with a credit score of 700 or higher. A score of 720+ significantly improves your chances. Income and existing Chase relationship also factor into the decision.