CSP vs. CSR: Which Chase Sapphire Card Should You Get First?

New to travel rewards? You're likely choosing between the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card and the Chase Sapphire Reserve®. Both earn Chase Ultimate Rewards points and unlock valuable transfer partners—but the annual fees, perks, and point redemption rates differ.
 

For most beginners, the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card is the better place to start. Here's a side-by-side breakdown and decision guide.

Quick Comparison: Chase Sapphire Preferred vs. Chase Sapphire Reserve

Why the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card Is Better for Most Beginners

The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card offers a strong return on points and valuable benefits with a modest $95 annual fee. It’s a great entry-level card for anyone new to the travel rewards space.
 

Key benefits include:

• 5x points on travel booked through Chase Travel℠ (excluding hotel purchases that qualify for the $50 hotel credit)
• 3x points on dining (including eligible delivery and takeout)
• 3x points on online grocery (excluding Target, Walmart, and wholesale clubs)
• 3x points on select streaming services
• 2x points on other travel
• 1x points on all other purchases
• up $50 annual hotel credit for Chase Travel℠ bookings
• 10% anniversary points bonus based on total spend
   

It’s a low-commitment way to get started with points, and you can always upgrade to the Chase Sapphire Reserve® later.

Why You Might Consider the Chase Sapphire Reserve®

The Chase Sapphire Reserve® is designed for frequent travelers who want premium experiences and elevated benefits. The $795 annual fee is offset by a mix of statement credits and luxury perks.
 

Notable benefits include:

• 8x points on Chase Travel℠ (including The Edit℠ bookings)
• 4x points on direct flights and hotel bookings
• 3x points on dining worldwide
• 1x point on all other purchases
• up to $300 annual travel credit (auto-applied)
• up to $500 annual hotel credit through The Edit℠ ($250 every 6 months, 2-night minimum)
• Priority Pass™ Select membership + Chase Sapphire Lounge access
• Global Entry/TSA PreCheck®/NEXUS credit (up to $120 every 4 years)
• Over $1,500 in lifestyle partner value (Apple, DoorDash, Peloton, StubHub, Lyft, etc.)
• IHG One Rewards Platinum Elite status through 12/31/2027
• Custom travel planning with Reserve Travel Designers (valued at $300 per trip)
   

For someone flying monthly or booking luxury hotels regularly, the card can more than pay for itself.

Calculator: Which Card Is Right for You?

We built a free calculator to help you estimate the better fit based on your actual spending.

→ Try the Sapphire Calculator

Who Should Choose Each Card?

Choose the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card if:

• You’re new to travel rewards
• You want strong point value with a low annual fee
• You don’t travel frequently enough to maximize high-end perks
   

Choose the Chase Sapphire Reserve® if:

• You travel frequently (monthly or more)
• You’ll use the $300 travel credit and lounge access
• You value premium hotel, dining, and entertainment perks

Key Application Rules to Know

• You can only hold one Sapphire card at a time.
• You can only earn an intro bonus once per product (once for Preferred, once for Reserve).
• The Chase 5/24 rule still applies — if you’ve opened 5+ personal credit cards in the past 24 months, you’re unlikely to be approved.

Final Verdict

Most beginners should start with the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card. It offers a strong value-to-fee ratio, great travel transfer options, and a clear path to upgrade if your travel increases over time.

The Chase Sapphire Reserve® can be an excellent upgrade—just make sure you’re getting more than $795 in value before making the jump.