Autograph vs United Explorer
Autograph
$0/yr
7.5/10
VS
United Explorer
$150/yr
6.0/10
Quick Answer
Autograph charges no annual fee with 1X base rewards. United Explorer charges $150/yr with 1X base rewards. Autograph offers better overall value for most spenders when comparing fees, rewards, and benefits side by side.
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Winner by Category
Annual Fees
Autograph
Lower annual fee ($0 vs $150)
Rewards Earning
Autograph
7 earning categories
Benefits & Protection
Autograph
6 benefits vs 0
Statement Credits
United Explorer
$100 in annual credits
Flexibility
Tie
Both cards have similar redemption flexibility
OUR PICK
Autograph wins for most people
The $150 fee difference is hard to justify unless you maximize premium benefits.
Apply for AutographPREMIUM PICK
United Explorer wins for heavy spenders
If you can offset the higher fee with credits and perks, this card delivers more value.
Apply for United ExplorerRewards Earning: Detailed Comparison
Autograph
| Restaurants | 3.0X |
| Travel | 3.0X |
| Gas stations | 3.0X |
| Transit | 3.0X |
| Streaming | 3.0X |
| Phone plans | 3.0X |
| Everything else | 1.0X |
United Explorer
| United Airlines purchases | 2.0X |
| Dining | 2.0X |
| Hotel stays | 2.0X |
| Everything else | 1.0X |
Card Benefits: Detailed Comparison
Autograph (6 benefits)
- Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver
- Purchase Security (up to $1,000)
- Extended Warranty Protection
- Cell Phone Protection (up to $600)
- Travel Accident Insurance (up to $250,000)
- Visa Roadside Dispatch
United Explorer (0 benefits)
See full review for benefits details.