Chase Sapphire Preferred vs Capital One Venture: Which Travel Card Wins?

The Chase Sapphire Preferred and Capital One Venture are two of the most popular travel credit cards in 2026. Both offer solid signup bonuses, travel rewards, and no foreign transaction fees. But they work very differently under the hood.

We've used both cards extensively. Here's our honest breakdown.

The Quick Comparison

When to Choose Chase Sapphire Preferred

The Chase Sapphire Preferred wins if you want maximum value from your points through transfer partners. Chase Ultimate Rewards points can be transferred to airlines like United, Southwest, and JetBlue, plus hotels like Hyatt, where you can often get 2-5 cents per point in value.

It's also the better card if you spend a lot on dining (3x points).

When to Choose Capital One Venture

The Capital One Venture wins on simplicity. The flat 2x miles on everything means you never have to think about which card to use. And the signup bonus is larger.

It's the better choice if you want a straightforward card that earns well on all purchases without category tracking.

Our Verdict

For most people, the Chase Sapphire Preferred offers more long-term value, but only if you're willing to learn the transfer partner system. If you just want to earn and redeem without thinking, go with the Venture.

FAQ

Can I have both cards?

Yes. Many travel hackers carry both cards to maximize earnings across different spending categories.

Which card has better travel insurance?

Both offer trip cancellation/interruption insurance, but Chase's coverage is generally considered more comprehensive. Always read the full terms for your specific situation.