Discover it Secured vs United Explorer
Discover it Secured
$0/yr
7.0/10
VS
United Explorer
$150/yr
6.0/10
Quick Answer
Discover it Secured charges no annual fee with 1X base rewards. United Explorer charges $150/yr with 1X base rewards. Discover it Secured 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
Discover it Secured
Lower annual fee ($0 vs $150)
Rewards Earning
United Explorer
4 earning categories
Benefits & Protection
See card details
Visit each card's review for full benefits list
Statement Credits
United Explorer
$100 in annual credits
Flexibility
Tie
Both cards have similar redemption flexibility
OUR PICK
Discover it Secured wins for most people
The $150 fee difference is hard to justify unless you maximize premium benefits.
Apply for Discover it SecuredPREMIUM 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
Discover it Secured
| N/A | 2.0X |
| N/A | 2.0X |
United Explorer
| United Airlines purchases | 2.0X |
| Dining | 2.0X |
| Hotel stays | 2.0X |
| Everything else | 1.0X |