Choosing between the American Express® Gold Card (Amex Gold) and Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card can be a tough call. Both cards cater to frequent travelers, offering enticing rewards programs and travel benefits. But with their distinct features and annual fees, the “better” card depends on your spending habits and travel style.
Comparison Table Between Amex Gold Vs Chase Sapphire Preferred
| Category | Amex Gold | Chase Sapphire Preferred |
|---|---|---|
| Groceries (US only) | 4x points | 2x points (on online groceries only) |
| Restaurants (including takeout & delivery) | 4x points | 3x points |
| Travel | 3x points on flights booked directly with airlines or on Amex Travel | 2x points on travel and dining |
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Features:
- Amex Gold: Streams ahead with its hefty annual credits for dining ($120 per year at participating restaurants) and Uber rides ($120 per year, split between Uber Eats and Uber rides). It also boasts airport lounge access through the Priority Pass Select membership.
- Chase Sapphire Preferred: Counters with comprehensive travel insurance (trip cancellation, interruption, delay, baggage), primary car rental loss and damage insurance, and a handy travel credit ($95 annual credit for travel purchases booked through Chase Ultimate Rewards®).
Who Should Get Which Card:
- Amex Gold: Ideal for foodies and frequent diners who can maximize the card’s generous restaurant and Uber credits. The airport lounge access adds another layer of value for travelers.
- Chase Sapphire Preferred: A good fit for travelers who prioritize broad travel coverage and flexibility. The travel credit and transferrable points to travel partners open up possibilities.
Pros and Cons: Amex Gold
- Pros: High rewards on dining and groceries, generous credits, airport lounge access.
- Cons: High annual fee ($255), limited points transfer partners, credits can be tricky to use.
Pros and Cons: Chase Sapphire Preferred
- Pros: More comprehensive travel insurance, transferrable points, lower annual fee.
- Cons: Lower rewards on dining and groceries, no airport lounge access by default (requires separate enrollment).
Requirements:
Both cards require good credit (generally a score of 700 or above). Amex doesn’t disclose specific income requirements, while Chase Sapphire Preferred recommends a minimum annual income of $40,000.
The Bottom Line
The Amex Gold shines for big spenders who can leverage its credits and enjoy the perks. Chase Sapphire Preferred offers a well-rounded package with strong travel insurance and transferrable points, making it a good all-around option. Consider your spending habits and travel needs to pick the card that best suits your lifestyle.