Chase Freedom Unlimited®
vs. U.S. Bank Cash+® Visa Signature® Card

The Freedom Unlimited and the U.S. Bank Cash+ both offer enticing cash back rewards and no annual fee, making them strong contenders if you’re looking to optimize your credit card benefits. The Freedom Unlimited edges ahead with its higher cash back score and a generous introductory offer that includes an additional 1.5% cash back in the first year.

However, the U.S. Bank Cash+ card's customizable rewards can be very appealing, especially with its welcome bonus. While the Freedom Unlimited may be the frontrunner, the U.S. Bank Cash+ card's tailored rewards could make it a worthy option if you value flexibility.

You might prefer the Freedom Unlimited if you value a simple rewards structure with consistent benefits. This card offers a variety of cash back rewards, including an extra 1.5% on all purchases in the first year, making it a strong contender for everyday spending without worrying about category limits.

You might prefer the U.S. Bank Cash+ if you enjoy tailoring your rewards to your spending habits. With the ability to choose two categories each quarter for higher cash back, this card can be highly rewarding if you're willing to manage your rewards actively and can stay within the quarterly limits.

Evaluating features like APRs, fees, credit requirements, rewards and introductory offers will clarify which card is for you. For instance, if you frequently travel, the Freedom Unlimited's higher travel cash back might appeal to you, whereas the U.S. Bank Cash+ offers customizable rewards that could benefit those with specific spending patterns.

The Freedom Unlimited leads with a higher expected reward value and a more generous effective reward rate. It shines with 5% back on travel through Chase and 3% on dining and drugstore purchases, making it a strong contender for those who spend heavily in these areas.

While the U.S. Bank Cash+ doesn't quite match up overall, its customizable 5% categories can be a draw for users with specific spending patterns that align with the available choices.

U.S. Bank Cash+ Categories

The ability to choose two 5% cash back categories each quarter is a notable feature for the U.S. Bank Cash+ card. These categories include:

• TV, internet & streaming services
• Fast food
• Cell phone providers
• Department stores
• Home utilities
• Select clothing stores
• Electronics stores
• Gyms/fitness centers
• Furniture stores
• Ground transportation
• Movie theaters
• Sporting goods stores

Additionally, you can select one everyday category like gas stations or grocery stores to earn 2% cash back. This flexibility can be beneficial for those who plan their spending strategically.

The table provides a detailed view of the bonus categories for both cards.

Freedom Unlimited offers flexible redemption options without expiration, allowing for statement credits, direct deposits, and more, with no minimum required. By contrast, U.S. Bank Cash+ requires at least $25 to redeem and imposes a 36-month expiration on cash back, with redemptions limited to U.S. Bank accounts or statement credits.

MoneyGeek analyzes credit cards like Freedom Unlimited and U.S. Bank Cash+ based on their performance in various use cases. This approach ensures that the score reflects the card's performance in the scenario where it provides the most value.

For cash back cards, the primary factors we consider are the effective reward rate and the return on investment for offers. These elements — along with annual fees, introductory purchase rates and issuer satisfaction — contribute to a card's overall score.