Chase Freedom vs Discover It – Which Cashback Card Wins in 2025?
If you’re on the hunt for a top-notch cashback card in 2025, you’ve probably narrowed it down to Chase Freedom and Discover It. They’re both fan favorites for a reason: no annual fees, generous rewards, and awesome perks. But which one actually gives you more bang for your buck. In this comparison, we’re putting Chase Freedom vs Discover It head to head to see which card comes out on top for cashback, ease of use, and overall value in 2025.
Best Cashback Credit Cards for Everyday Purchases in 2025: Maximize Every Swipe
Quick Overview: What Are These Cards?
Chase Freedom Flex® -A rotating-category cashback card issued by Chase with a focus on flexible rewards and premium perks.
Discover it® Cash Back – Discover’s signature rotating-category card with a unique cashback match feature.
Cashback Comparison: Chase Freedom vs Discover It
This is the big one how much cashback can you earn with each card?
Chase Freedom Flex® – Rewards Breakdown
- 5% cashback on rotating quarterly categories (up to $1,500 per quarter, activation required)
- 5% on travel booked through Chase Ultimate Rewards
- 3% on dining and drugstores
- 1% on all other purchases
Example categories for 2025 (subject to change):
- Grocery stores and fitness clubs
- Gas stations and EV charging
- Amazon and streaming services
- PayPal and department stores
Discover it® Cash Back – Rewards Breakdown
- 5% cashback on rotating quarterly categories (up to $1,500 per quarter, activation required)
- 1% unlimited cashback on all other purchases
- Cashback Match™: Discover matches all cashback earned your first year
Example categories for 2025 (based on past years):
- Q1: Grocery stores and Walgreens
- Q2: Gas stations and restaurants
- Q3: Amazon.com and digital wallets
- Q4: Target and PayPal
Verdict on Cashback:
- Short term: Discover wins with Cashback Match (double rewards in year 1)
- Long term: Chase Freedom Flex wins with added 3% and 5% fixed category perks
Perks & Features: Which Card Offers More?
Chase Freedom Flex
- Cell phone protection (when you pay your bill with the card)
- Access to Chase Ultimate Rewards
- Travel & purchase protection
- Mastercard World Elite benefits
Discover it Cash Back
- No foreign transaction fees
- Free FICO score on statements
- U.S.-based customer service
- Freeze it® feature for card security
Verdict on Perks:
- Chase Freedom wins for premium travel, shopping, and protection perks
- Discover It shines for simplicity and customer service
Redemption Options: Flexibility Matters
Chase Freedom Flex
- Redeem points for:
- Statement credit or direct deposit
- Travel through Chase Ultimate Rewards
- Gift cards and Amazon purchases
- Points value can increase when paired with a premium Chase card (like Sapphire Preferred)
Discover It
- Redeem cashback:
- As a statement credit
- For gift cards
- At Amazon.com or PayPal checkout
- No minimum redemption threshold
Verdict:
- Discover It is more straightforward
- Chase Freedom Flex is better for people who want to maximize rewards with Chase’s ecosystem
Application Requirements & Approval Odds
Chase Freedom Flex
- Requires good to excellent credit (typically 670+)
- Credit pull: Hard inquiry
- Not ideal for recent applicants (Chase’s 5/24 rule applies)
Discover It
- More beginner-friendly, often approved for scores around 650+
- Allows pre-qualification with no credit hit
Verdict:
- Discover It is easier to get approved for, especially if you’re building or rebuilding credit
Side-by-Side Comparison Table
| Feature | Chase Freedom Flex | Discover it Cash Back |
|---|---|---|
| Cashback | 5% rotating + 3% dining/drugstores + 5% travel | 5% rotating + 1% flat |
| Welcome Offer | None (as of 2025) | Cashback Match™ in Year 1 |
| Annual Fee | $0 | $0 |
| Perks | Cell phone protection, travel benefits | No foreign fees, card freeze, FICO score |
| Ease of Approval | Moderate (670+) | Easier (650+) |
| Redemption | Versatile through Chase Ultimate Rewards | Simple, direct cashback |
So… Which Cashback Card Wins in 2025?
Best for Maximum Rewards Potential – Chase Freedom Flex – especially if you dine out, travel, or already use Chase cards.
Best for New Cardholders & Simplicity – Discover It Cash Back – Cashback Match makes it a strong choice for year one users.
Final Thoughts: Pick What Fits Your Lifestyle
Both cards offer solid value—but your spending habits should guide your pick. Love the idea of pairing cards and optimizing rewards? Go with Chase Freedom Flex. Want a simple, set-it-and-forget-it card with big first-year returns? Discover It is your best bet.
Next step:
Visit Discover.com or Chase.com to check your eligibility and apply today!
