For frequent flyers and luxury seekers, the American Express® Platinum Card (Amex Platinum) and Chase Sapphire Reserve® card are the gold standards. Both cards boast premium rewards programs, extensive travel benefits, and hefty annual fees. But which one reigns supreme for your wallet and wanderlust? Buckle up as we dissect their offerings to help you pick your perfect travel companion.
Face-off: Amex Platinum vs. Chase Sapphire Reserve
| Feature | Amex Platinum | Chase Sapphire Reserve |
|---|---|---|
| Rewards Rate | Up to 5x Membership Rewards® points on flights booked directly with airlines or on Amex Travel (on select airlines) & prepaid hotels booked on Amex Travel, 1x point on other purchases | 3x points on travel and dining, 1x point on all other purchases |
| Annual Fee | $695 | $550 |
| Airport Lounge Access | Priority Pass Select membership (includes Centurion Lounges, Delta Sky Clubs when flying Delta, and more) | Priority Pass Select membership (excludes Centurion Lounges) |
| Travel Credits | Up to $200 Airline Fee Credit (enrollment required), Up to $200 Uber Credit (split between Uber rides & Uber Eats), Up to $200 Hotel Credit (The Hotel Collection bookings) | Up to $300 annual travel credit (travel purchases booked through Chase Ultimate Rewards®) |
| Travel Insurance | Trip cancellation/interruption insurance, baggage delay insurance, rental car insurance (primary for some rentals) | Trip cancellation/interruption insurance, baggage delay insurance, rental car insurance (primary coverage) |
Also See: Apple Card Vs Chase Sapphire Preferred?
Features:
- Amex Platinum: Goes all-in on luxury travel with a wider variety of airport lounge access (including its exclusive Centurion Lounges), higher bonus points on flights and prepaid hotels booked on Amex Travel, and a plethora of credits that can offset the annual fee for frequent travelers.
- Chase Sapphire Reserve: Offers a slightly lower annual fee and a simpler rewards structure with a focus on travel and dining. However, its travel insurance is generally considered more comprehensive, particularly with primary rental car insurance coverage.
Who Should Get Which Card:
- Amex Platinum: Ideal for those who prioritize luxury travel experiences, frequent access to airport lounges (especially Centurion Lounges), and can maximize the card’s credits. The high annual fee requires significant travel spending to justify the cost.
- Chase Sapphire Reserve: A good fit for travelers who value comprehensive travel insurance, a more accessible annual fee, and a flexible rewards program with transferrable points. It caters well to those who don’t necessarily crave the exclusivity of Centurion Lounges.
Pros and Cons: Amex Platinum
- Pros: Extensive airport lounge access (including Centurion Lounges), high rewards on flights and prepaid hotels booked on Amex Travel, valuable travel credits.
- Cons: Very high annual fee, complex rewards program, credits require enrollment and can be tricky to use.
Pros and Cons: Chase Sapphire Reserve
- Pros: More comprehensive travel insurance, lower annual fee, simpler rewards program with transferrable points.
- Cons: Limited airport lounge access (excludes Centurion Lounges), lower rewards on flights compared to Amex Platinum on specific airlines.
Requirements:
Both cards typically require excellent credit (generally a score of 720 or above). Amex doesn’t disclose a specific income requirement, while Chase Sapphire Reserve recommends a minimum annual income of $40,000.
The Bottom Line:
The Amex Platinum caters to the discerning traveler who values luxury and can leverage its extensive benefits. Chase Sapphire Reserve offers a well-rounded package with a more accessible price tag for those who prioritize travel protection and flexibility. Consider your travel style, budget, and spending habits to pick the card that elevates your journeys without weighing down your wallet.