Is the United Explorer Card worth the higher annual fee?

The United Explorer Card costs $150/yr vs $0/yr for the Marriott Bonvoy Bold Credit Card. The higher fee includes lounge access and travel credits that can offset the cost for frequent travelers.

Which card earns more rewards, the Marriott Bonvoy Bold Credit Card or United Explorer Card?

The Marriott Bonvoy Bold Credit Card has a higher base earn rate (1X vs 0X), but both cards have different bonus categories where they excel.

What benefits does the Marriott Bonvoy Bold Credit Card have that the United Explorer Card doesn't?

The Marriott Bonvoy Bold Credit Card focuses on earn rates, while the United Explorer Card offers lounge access, travel credits.

Should I get the Marriott Bonvoy Bold Credit Card or the United Explorer Card?

Choose the Marriott Bonvoy Bold Credit Card if you want lower fees and solid rewards. Pick the United Explorer Card if you spend enough to justify the $150/yr fee through its premium benefits and higher earn rates.

Is the United Explorer Card worth the higher annual fee?

The United Explorer Card costs $150/yr vs $0/yr for the Marriott Bonvoy Bold Credit Card. The higher fee includes lounge access and travel credits that can offset the cost for frequent travelers.

Which card earns more rewards, the Marriott Bonvoy Bold Credit Card or United Explorer Card?

The Marriott Bonvoy Bold Credit Card has a higher base earn rate (1X vs 0X), but both cards have different bonus categories where they excel.

What benefits does the Marriott Bonvoy Bold Credit Card have that the United Explorer Card doesn't?

The Marriott Bonvoy Bold Credit Card focuses on earn rates, while the United Explorer Card offers lounge access, travel credits.

Should I get the Marriott Bonvoy Bold Credit Card or the United Explorer Card?

Choose the Marriott Bonvoy Bold Credit Card if you want lower fees and solid rewards. Pick the United Explorer Card if you spend enough to justify the $150/yr fee through its premium benefits and higher earn rates.

Is the United Explorer Card worth the higher annual fee?

The United Explorer Card costs $150/yr vs $0/yr for the Marriott Bonvoy Bold Credit Card. The higher fee includes lounge access and travel credits that can offset the cost for frequent travelers.

Which card earns more rewards, the Marriott Bonvoy Bold Credit Card or United Explorer Card?

The Marriott Bonvoy Bold Credit Card has a higher base earn rate (1X vs 0X), but both cards have different bonus categories where they excel.

What benefits does the Marriott Bonvoy Bold Credit Card have that the United Explorer Card doesn't?

The Marriott Bonvoy Bold Credit Card focuses on earn rates, while the United Explorer Card offers lounge access, travel credits.

Should I get the Marriott Bonvoy Bold Credit Card or the United Explorer Card?

Choose the Marriott Bonvoy Bold Credit Card if you want lower fees and solid rewards. Pick the United Explorer Card if you spend enough to justify the $150/yr fee through its premium benefits and higher earn rates.

CardRewards

Editorial disclosure: CardRewards.ai is an independent comparison service. Our analysis is based on publicly available card data and is reviewed regularly by our editorial team. Card issuers do not influence our rankings or content. Last updated: May 2026.

Marriott Bonvoy Bold Credit Card vs United Explorer Card

The Marriott Bonvoy Bold Credit Card ($0/yr) is better for everyday value, while the United Explorer Card ($150/yr) is worth it for frequent travelers who can use its premium perks. Here's the full comparison.

Marriott Bonvoy Bold Credit Card

Chase

United Explorer Card

Chase

Fees & Welcome Offer

Annual Fee

$150(waived year 1)

Welcome Bonus

2 Hotel

70,000 Airline

Earn Rates

Category	Marriott Bonvoy Bold Credit Card	United Explorer Card
Marriott Hotels	14X

Category-by-Category Winner

The Marriott Bonvoy Bold Credit Card wins in 5 of 9 categories. The United Explorer Card leads in 4.

Marriott Hotels

Marriott Bonvoy Bold Credit Card earns 14X vs 1X

Grocery Stores

Marriott Bonvoy Bold Credit Card earns 2X vs 1X

Streaming Internet Cable Phone

Marriott Bonvoy Bold Credit Card earns 2X vs 1X

Rideshare

Marriott Bonvoy Bold Credit Card earns 2X vs 1X

Food Delivery

Marriott Bonvoy Bold Credit Card earns 2X vs 1X

United Purchases

United Explorer Card earns 2X vs 1X

Dining

United Explorer Card earns 2X vs 1X

Hotels

United Explorer Card earns 2X vs 1X

United Airlines

United Explorer Card earns 2X vs 1X

The Bottom Line

The Marriott Bonvoy Bold Credit Card has a lower annual fee ($0 vs $150), making it the more accessible option.

The United Explorer Card justifies its higher fee with premium perks like lounge access and travel credits.

Choose the Marriott Bonvoy Bold Credit Card if you want solid rewards with a lower cost of entry. Choose the United Explorer Card if you travel frequently and can maximize its premium benefits.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the United Explorer Card worth the higher annual fee?: The United Explorer Card costs $150/yr vs $0/yr for the Marriott Bonvoy Bold Credit Card. The higher fee includes lounge access and travel credits that can offset the cost for frequent travelers.
Which card earns more rewards, the Marriott Bonvoy Bold Credit Card or United Explorer Card?: The Marriott Bonvoy Bold Credit Card has a higher base earn rate (1X vs 0X), but both cards have different bonus categories where they excel.
What benefits does the Marriott Bonvoy Bold Credit Card have that the United Explorer Card doesn't?: The Marriott Bonvoy Bold Credit Card focuses on earn rates, while the United Explorer Card offers lounge access, travel credits.
Should I get the Marriott Bonvoy Bold Credit Card or the United Explorer Card?: Choose the Marriott Bonvoy Bold Credit Card if you want lower fees and solid rewards. Pick the United Explorer Card if you spend enough to justify the $150/yr fee through its premium benefits and higher earn rates.

Related Comparisons

Amex Blue Cash Everyday vs Marriott Bonvoy Bold Bank Of America Customized Cash vs Marriott Bonvoy Bold Bank Of America Unlimited Cash vs Marriott Bonvoy Bold Bilt Blue vs Marriott Bonvoy Bold

Explore More

Marriott Bonvoy Bold Credit Card — Full Review All Chase Cards

United Explorer Card — Full Review All Chase Cards

Browse all comparisons →Browse all card categories →

Official issuer pages: Chase cards

Editorial disclosure: The analysis on this page is based on publicly available card data and is updated regularly. CardRewards.ai is an independent comparison service. Card issuers do not influence our rankings or editorial content. Last updated: May 2026.

Marriott Bonvoy Bold Credit Card vs United Explorer Card

Marriott Bonvoy Bold Credit Card

Chase

United Explorer Card

Chase

Fees & Welcome Offer

Annual Fee

$150(waived year 1)

Welcome Bonus

2 Hotel

70,000 Airline

Earn Rates

Category	Marriott Bonvoy Bold Credit Card	United Explorer Card
Marriott Hotels	14X

Category-by-Category Winner

The Marriott Bonvoy Bold Credit Card wins in 5 of 9 categories. The United Explorer Card leads in 4.

Marriott Hotels

Marriott Bonvoy Bold Credit Card earns 14X vs 1X

Grocery Stores

Marriott Bonvoy Bold Credit Card earns 2X vs 1X

Streaming Internet Cable Phone

Marriott Bonvoy Bold Credit Card earns 2X vs 1X

Rideshare

Marriott Bonvoy Bold Credit Card earns 2X vs 1X

Food Delivery

Marriott Bonvoy Bold Credit Card earns 2X vs 1X

United Purchases

United Explorer Card earns 2X vs 1X

Dining

United Explorer Card earns 2X vs 1X

Hotels

United Explorer Card earns 2X vs 1X

United Airlines

United Explorer Card earns 2X vs 1X

The Bottom Line

The Marriott Bonvoy Bold Credit Card has a lower annual fee ($0 vs $150), making it the more accessible option.

The United Explorer Card justifies its higher fee with premium perks like lounge access and travel credits.

Choose the Marriott Bonvoy Bold Credit Card if you want solid rewards with a lower cost of entry. Choose the United Explorer Card if you travel frequently and can maximize its premium benefits.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the United Explorer Card worth the higher annual fee?: The United Explorer Card costs $150/yr vs $0/yr for the Marriott Bonvoy Bold Credit Card. The higher fee includes lounge access and travel credits that can offset the cost for frequent travelers.
Which card earns more rewards, the Marriott Bonvoy Bold Credit Card or United Explorer Card?: The Marriott Bonvoy Bold Credit Card has a higher base earn rate (1X vs 0X), but both cards have different bonus categories where they excel.
What benefits does the Marriott Bonvoy Bold Credit Card have that the United Explorer Card doesn't?: The Marriott Bonvoy Bold Credit Card focuses on earn rates, while the United Explorer Card offers lounge access, travel credits.
Should I get the Marriott Bonvoy Bold Credit Card or the United Explorer Card?: Choose the Marriott Bonvoy Bold Credit Card if you want lower fees and solid rewards. Pick the United Explorer Card if you spend enough to justify the $150/yr fee through its premium benefits and higher earn rates.

Related Comparisons

Amex Blue Cash Everyday vs Marriott Bonvoy Bold Bank Of America Customized Cash vs Marriott Bonvoy Bold Bank Of America Unlimited Cash vs Marriott Bonvoy Bold Bilt Blue vs Marriott Bonvoy Bold

Explore More

Marriott Bonvoy Bold Credit Card — Full Review All Chase Cards

United Explorer Card — Full Review All Chase Cards

Browse all comparisons →Browse all card categories →

Official issuer pages: Chase cards

Marriott Bonvoy Bold Credit Card vs United Explorer Card

Marriott Bonvoy Bold Credit Card

Chase

United Explorer Card

Chase

Fees & Welcome Offer

Annual Fee

$150(waived year 1)

Welcome Bonus

2 Hotel

70,000 Airline

Earn Rates

Category	Marriott Bonvoy Bold Credit Card	United Explorer Card
Marriott Hotels	14X

Category-by-Category Winner

The Marriott Bonvoy Bold Credit Card wins in 5 of 9 categories. The United Explorer Card leads in 4.

Marriott Hotels

Marriott Bonvoy Bold Credit Card earns 14X vs 1X

Grocery Stores

Marriott Bonvoy Bold Credit Card earns 2X vs 1X

Streaming Internet Cable Phone

Marriott Bonvoy Bold Credit Card earns 2X vs 1X

Rideshare

Marriott Bonvoy Bold Credit Card earns 2X vs 1X

Food Delivery

Marriott Bonvoy Bold Credit Card earns 2X vs 1X

United Purchases

United Explorer Card earns 2X vs 1X

Dining

United Explorer Card earns 2X vs 1X

Hotels

United Explorer Card earns 2X vs 1X

United Airlines

United Explorer Card earns 2X vs 1X

The Bottom Line

The Marriott Bonvoy Bold Credit Card has a lower annual fee ($0 vs $150), making it the more accessible option.

The United Explorer Card justifies its higher fee with premium perks like lounge access and travel credits.

Choose the Marriott Bonvoy Bold Credit Card if you want solid rewards with a lower cost of entry. Choose the United Explorer Card if you travel frequently and can maximize its premium benefits.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the United Explorer Card worth the higher annual fee?: The United Explorer Card costs $150/yr vs $0/yr for the Marriott Bonvoy Bold Credit Card. The higher fee includes lounge access and travel credits that can offset the cost for frequent travelers.
Which card earns more rewards, the Marriott Bonvoy Bold Credit Card or United Explorer Card?: The Marriott Bonvoy Bold Credit Card has a higher base earn rate (1X vs 0X), but both cards have different bonus categories where they excel.
What benefits does the Marriott Bonvoy Bold Credit Card have that the United Explorer Card doesn't?: The Marriott Bonvoy Bold Credit Card focuses on earn rates, while the United Explorer Card offers lounge access, travel credits.
Should I get the Marriott Bonvoy Bold Credit Card or the United Explorer Card?: Choose the Marriott Bonvoy Bold Credit Card if you want lower fees and solid rewards. Pick the United Explorer Card if you spend enough to justify the $150/yr fee through its premium benefits and higher earn rates.

Related Comparisons

Amex Blue Cash Everyday vs Marriott Bonvoy Bold Bank Of America Customized Cash vs Marriott Bonvoy Bold Bank Of America Unlimited Cash vs Marriott Bonvoy Bold Bilt Blue vs Marriott Bonvoy Bold

Explore More

Marriott Bonvoy Bold Credit Card — Full Review All Chase Cards

United Explorer Card — Full Review All Chase Cards

Browse all comparisons →Browse all card categories →

Official issuer pages: Chase cards

Benefits & Features

Network

VISA

Key Benefits

None

✓Lounge access

✓Travel credit

✓Travel insurance

✓Global Entry credit

✓Free checked bags

Pros & Cons

Pros

+No annual fee makes it risk-free to hold long-term
+Automatic Silver Elite status with 10% bonus on stays and priority late checkout
+5 Elite Night Credits annually toward status qualification
+No foreign transaction fees
+2x earning on everyday categories (groceries, streaming, rideshare, food delivery)

+$0 intro annual fee first year, then $150—reasonable for the benefits
+Free first checked bag for cardholder and companion saves up to $160 roundtrip
+2x miles on United, dining, and hotels—solid everyday earning
+Up to $530+ in annual credits (United travel, hotels, rideshare, Instacart, JSX)
+2 United Club one-time passes per year worth $100+

Cons

−Only Silver Elite status (Gold and Platinum provide much better benefits)
−Low 1x earning on non-bonus purchases
−Only 5 Elite Night Credits vs 15-25 on premium cards
−No free night award benefit
−No lounge access or premium travel perks

−Only 1x miles on non-category spend limits earning potential
−Best credits require hitting $10K-$20K spend thresholds
−No United Club membership—just 2 single-use passes
−Priority boarding is Group 2, not as early as premium cards
−Miles locked to United MileagePlus with limited transfer flexibility

Is the Fee Difference Worth It?

The United Explorer Card costs $150/yr — that's $150 more than the Marriott Bonvoy Bold Credit Card (no annual fee). To justify that gap, you need to extract at least $150 in annual value from the card's higher earn rates and benefits.

The United Explorer Card offers travel credits, lounge access, Global Entry/TSA PreCheck credit, free checked bags. With 4 premium perks, heavy spenders on united purchases and dining can often offset the full fee.

Bottom line: The $150 difference is moderate. If you spend consistently on united purchases and dining, the United Explorer Card's higher earn rates and benefits can easily cover the gap.

What You Give Up

Choosing one card means missing out on these benefits from the other.

Choosing Marriott Bonvoy Bold Credit Card means losing:

-Airport lounge access
-Annual travel credit
-Travel insurance
-Free checked bags
-Global Entry credit

Which Card Is Right for You?

Get the Marriott Bonvoy Bold Credit Card if you:

+Do most of your spending at grocery stores
+Want strong rewards without a large annual fee commitment

Get the United Explorer Card if you:

+Spend $300+/month on restaurants and dining out
+Fly frequently and value airport lounge access
+Travel enough to fully use annual credits and premium perks

Benefits & Features

Network

VISA

Key Benefits

None

✓Lounge access

✓Travel credit

✓Travel insurance

✓Global Entry credit

✓Free checked bags

Pros & Cons

Pros

+No annual fee makes it risk-free to hold long-term
+Automatic Silver Elite status with 10% bonus on stays and priority late checkout
+5 Elite Night Credits annually toward status qualification
+No foreign transaction fees
+2x earning on everyday categories (groceries, streaming, rideshare, food delivery)

+$0 intro annual fee first year, then $150—reasonable for the benefits
+Free first checked bag for cardholder and companion saves up to $160 roundtrip
+2x miles on United, dining, and hotels—solid everyday earning
+Up to $530+ in annual credits (United travel, hotels, rideshare, Instacart, JSX)
+2 United Club one-time passes per year worth $100+

Cons

−Only Silver Elite status (Gold and Platinum provide much better benefits)
−Low 1x earning on non-bonus purchases
−Only 5 Elite Night Credits vs 15-25 on premium cards
−No free night award benefit
−No lounge access or premium travel perks

−Only 1x miles on non-category spend limits earning potential
−Best credits require hitting $10K-$20K spend thresholds
−No United Club membership—just 2 single-use passes
−Priority boarding is Group 2, not as early as premium cards
−Miles locked to United MileagePlus with limited transfer flexibility

Is the Fee Difference Worth It?

Bottom line: The $150 difference is moderate. If you spend consistently on united purchases and dining, the United Explorer Card's higher earn rates and benefits can easily cover the gap.

What You Give Up

Choosing one card means missing out on these benefits from the other.

Choosing Marriott Bonvoy Bold Credit Card means losing:

-Airport lounge access
-Annual travel credit
-Travel insurance
-Free checked bags
-Global Entry credit

Which Card Is Right for You?

Get the Marriott Bonvoy Bold Credit Card if you:

+Do most of your spending at grocery stores
+Want strong rewards without a large annual fee commitment

Get the United Explorer Card if you:

+Spend $300+/month on restaurants and dining out
+Fly frequently and value airport lounge access
+Travel enough to fully use annual credits and premium perks

Benefits & Features

Network

VISA

Key Benefits

None

✓Lounge access

✓Travel credit

✓Travel insurance

✓Global Entry credit

✓Free checked bags

Pros & Cons

Pros

+No annual fee makes it risk-free to hold long-term
+Automatic Silver Elite status with 10% bonus on stays and priority late checkout
+5 Elite Night Credits annually toward status qualification
+No foreign transaction fees
+2x earning on everyday categories (groceries, streaming, rideshare, food delivery)

+$0 intro annual fee first year, then $150—reasonable for the benefits
+Free first checked bag for cardholder and companion saves up to $160 roundtrip
+2x miles on United, dining, and hotels—solid everyday earning
+Up to $530+ in annual credits (United travel, hotels, rideshare, Instacart, JSX)
+2 United Club one-time passes per year worth $100+

Cons

−Only Silver Elite status (Gold and Platinum provide much better benefits)
−Low 1x earning on non-bonus purchases
−Only 5 Elite Night Credits vs 15-25 on premium cards
−No free night award benefit
−No lounge access or premium travel perks

−Only 1x miles on non-category spend limits earning potential
−Best credits require hitting $10K-$20K spend thresholds
−No United Club membership—just 2 single-use passes
−Priority boarding is Group 2, not as early as premium cards
−Miles locked to United MileagePlus with limited transfer flexibility

Is the Fee Difference Worth It?

Bottom line: The $150 difference is moderate. If you spend consistently on united purchases and dining, the United Explorer Card's higher earn rates and benefits can easily cover the gap.

What You Give Up

Choosing one card means missing out on these benefits from the other.

Choosing Marriott Bonvoy Bold Credit Card means losing:

-Airport lounge access
-Annual travel credit
-Travel insurance
-Free checked bags
-Global Entry credit

Which Card Is Right for You?

Get the Marriott Bonvoy Bold Credit Card if you:

+Do most of your spending at grocery stores
+Want strong rewards without a large annual fee commitment

Get the United Explorer Card if you:

+Spend $300+/month on restaurants and dining out
+Fly frequently and value airport lounge access
+Travel enough to fully use annual credits and premium perks