The Battle of the Golden Boys: Amex Gold vs. Platinum
Choosing between the American Express® Gold Card and The Platinum Card® from American Express can feel like picking between two equally tempting flavors of ice cream. Both cards offer a plethora of benefits but ultimately, the “better” card depends on your individual spending habits and travel preferences.
Let’s dive into the nitty-gritty of each card to help you make an informed decision,
Amex Gold: The Everyday Rewards Powerhouse
The Amex Gold shines brightly with its 4x points on dining and U.S. supermarkets (up to $25,000 per year; then 1x). This makes it a dream card for foodies and grocery enthusiasts. Additionally, you’ll earn 3x points on flights booked directly with airlines and 1x on everything else.
But wait, there’s more!
The Amex Gold boasts a slew of enticing perks, including:
- Up to $120 in annual Uber Cash credits: Get $10 per month to use on Uber rides or Uber Eats orders.
- $100 annual airline fee credit: Offset the cost of checked bags, in-flight meals, or other airline incidentals.
- Global dining credits: Enjoy statement credits at select restaurants worldwide.
The $250 annual fee for Amex Gold may seem high, but for the right spender, its worthwhile benefits and ample rewards easily outweigh the cost.
Amex Platinum: The Luxe Travel Companion
The Platinum Card® from American Express is a true VIP pass to the world of luxury travel. Its annual fee of $695 is a significant investment, but the card’s benefits are designed to elevate your travel experiences to new heights.
Here’s a taste of what the Platinum Card offers:
- Airport lounge access: Relax in style at over 1,400 airport lounges worldwide, including the exclusive Centurion Lounges.
- Automatic elite status: Enjoy perks like room upgrades, free breakfast, and late checkout at select hotels.
- Uber Cash credits: Get up to $200 in annual Uber Cash credits ($15 per month, plus a $20 bonus in December).
- Travel credits: Receive up to $200 in airline fee credits and up to $200 in hotel credits each year.
- Global Entry or TSA PreCheck credit: Get reimbursed for the application fee of either program.
For frequent travelers who appreciate comfort, convenience, and unique experiences, the Platinum Card is perfect.
So, which card reigns supreme?
If you’re a frequent traveler who craves luxury and convenience, the Platinum Card is your golden ticket. Its airport lounge access, elite status perks, and travel credits will transform your journeys into unforgettable adventures.
However, if you’re a savvy spender who prioritizes everyday rewards, the Amex Gold is your champion. Its generous points on dining and groceries, coupled with valuable credits and perks, will make your everyday purchases feel like a treasure hunt.
Ultimately, the best card for you depends on your individual lifestyle and spending habits. Consider your travel frequency, spending patterns, and desired perks to make an informed decision.
Bonus Tip:
For the ultimate rewards-earning duo, consider pairing the Amex Gold and Platinum cards. This dynamic duo will allow you to maximize your points on everyday spending and travel expenses, unlocking a world of possibilities.
Remember, the choice is yours!
Make your decision, grab your card, and get ready to embark on a rewarding journey.
Should I get both Amex Gold and Amex Platinum?
Applying for both of these cards at the same time will probably decrease your chances of receiving the welcome bonus from each.
Some of the benefits, such as Uber Cash are the same across each card. Not all merchants take Amex cards, so thatâs an important consideration.
Instead of stacking Amex cards if you already have one of these cards in your wallet, you might be better off looking for a mid-tier rewards card or cashback card from another card issuer to add to your collection. Our guide on the best credit cards can help you decide which is right for you.
Amex Gold vs. Amex Platinum: Rewards points
Both cards provide some pretty impressive ways to earn points.
While the Platinum card is better for people who travel frequently due to its 5x Membership Rewards on travel, the Gold card offers more opportunities to earn points on everyday purchases.
Hereâs how you earn with the Amex Gold Card:
- 4x Membership Rewards on restaurants and U. S. supermarkets. Up to $25,000 in annual purchases qualify for supermarket rewards; after that, you earn one-half of supermarket earnings for the remainder of the year.
- 3x Membership Points when you book flights directly with airlines or through the Amex travel website.
- 1x Membership Rewards on other eligible purchases
Hereâs how you can earn with the Amex Platinum Card:
- 5x Membership Rewards on reservations made via Amex Travel, airline direct, or by phone at 1-800-525-3355 At this level, your yearly earnings on eligible purchases can reach $500,000. Then, flight purchases earn 1x points.
- 5 times Membership Rewards when using Amex Travel to book eligible hotel stays
- 1x Membership Rewards on other eligible purchases.
American Express Platinum vs. Gold Credit Card | Which Card is Better?
FAQ
Is the Platinum or Gold card better?
What credit card is higher than Platinum?
Is Platinum better than gold membership?
Is it worth upgrading from Amex Gold to Platinum?
What is the difference between gold and Platinum Rewards cards?
Platinum cardholders usually earn more rewards points per $1 spent than gold cardholders. As an example, a standard rewards card may offer 1 point per $1, while the gold version offers up to 4 points per $1 and the platinum offers up to 5 points per $1.
What is the difference between Amex gold & platinum?
The most popular gold and platinum duo are the two American Express cards. Both cards differ in some areas — the Amex Gold Card mostly rewards your dining and supermarket purchases, while the Amex Platinum Card rewards your flights and prepaid hotels booked via Amex Travel — but both are considered premium options.
Are gold and Platinum credit cards better?
Both are often premium options designed for travel enthusiasts. But there are exceptions. In general, there isn’t an objective “best” card between a gold and platinum credit card. The better card is the one that brings you all the bells and whistles you need for the price you’re willing to pay.
How many points can you earn with a platinum credit card?
As an example, a standard rewards card may offer 1 point per $1, while the gold version offers up to 4 points per $1 and the platinum offers up to 5 points per $1. If a reward credit card limits the number of points you can earn per statement or year, then a platinum card will have one of the highest caps.