Amex Platinum vs. Chase Sapphire Reserve: Which Card Wins?
Choosing the right travel rewards credit card can feel overwhelming. With so many options promising luxurious perks and valuable points, where do you even begin? Two of the most popular contenders, the American Express Platinum Card and the Chase Sapphire Reserve, consistently top the lists for premium credit cards.
Both cards offer incredible benefits designed to enhance your travel experiences and elevate your lifestyle. They come with impressive perks, like airport lounge access and lucrative rewards on travel and dining. However, the specific features, benefits, and earning structures differ significantly between the Amex Platinum and the Chase Sapphire Reserve.
This in-depth comparison of the amex platinum vs chase sapphire reserve will break down the key features of each card. We’ll examine the rewards programs, annual fees, and other benefits to help you decide which card aligns best with your spending habits and travel goals. Get ready to discover which card reigns supreme!
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | Amex Platinum | Chase Sapphire Reserve |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Fee | Yes | Yes |
| Rewards on Travel | High | High |
| Rewards on Dining | High | High |
| Airport Lounge Access | Yes | Yes |
| Hotel Benefits | Yes | Yes |
| Travel Credit | Yes | Yes |
| Application for Global Entry/TSA PreCheck Credit | Yes | Yes |
| Transfer Partners | Yes | Yes |
| Foreign Transaction Fees | No | No |
| Points Value | Variable | Variable |
| Additional Card Benefits | Yes | Yes |
| Introductory Bonus | Yes | Yes |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Annual Fee
- Amex Platinum: The American Express Platinum card has a high annual fee, reflecting its premium benefits. This can be a significant upfront cost, but the value can be offset by the various credits and perks.
- Chase Saphire Reserve: The Chase Sapphire Reserve also has a substantial annual fee, but it’s generally considered lower than the Amex Platinum’s. It offers a good balance of travel rewards and benefits for its price.
- Winner: Chase Sapphire Reserve
Rewards on Travel & Dining
- Amex Platinum: Earns high rewards on flights booked directly with airlines or with Amex Travel, as well as on prepaid hotels booked through Amex Travel. Rewards on dining are typically less generous.
- Chase Saphire Reserve: Earns a high rewards rate on both travel and dining purchases. This makes it a great choice for those who frequently eat out or travel.
- Winner: Chase Sapphire Reserve
Travel Credits & Perks
- Amex Platinum: Offers substantial travel credits, such as an airline fee credit, and credits for services like Uber and Saks Fifth Avenue. It provides access to airport lounges like Centurion Lounges and Priority Pass.
- Chase Saphire Reserve: Provides an annual travel credit that’s easier to use than the Amex Platinum’s. It also offers access to the Chase Sapphire Lounge by The Club, and Priority Pass Select.
- Winner: Amex Platinum
Airport Lounge Access
- Amex Platinum: Provides access to Amex Centurion Lounges (when available), Delta Sky Clubs (when flying Delta), and Priority Pass Select lounges. This offers a wide range of lounge options.
- Chase Saphire Reserve: Offers Priority Pass Select lounge access and access to the Chase Sapphire Lounge by The Club.
- Winner: Amex Platinum
Hotel Benefits
- Amex Platinum: Offers perks like Fine Hotels & Resorts program, providing upgrades, credits, and early check-in/late check-out.
- Chase Saphire Reserve: Offers benefits through the Luxury Hotel & Resort Collection, though with potentially fewer perks than Amex Fine Hotels & Resorts.
- Winner: Amex Platinum
Transfer Partners
- Amex Platinum: Has a strong network of transfer partners, including many airlines and hotel loyalty programs. This provides flexibility in redeeming points.
- Chase Saphire Reserve: Also offers a robust list of transfer partners, including major airlines and hotel programs.
- Winner: Tie
Other Benefits
- Amex Platinum: Includes benefits like purchase protection, return protection, and concierge service.
- Chase Saphire Reserve: Offers benefits like purchase protection, trip cancellation/interruption insurance, and roadside assistance.
- Winner: Tie
Overall Value Proposition
- Amex Platinum: Designed for those who travel frequently and can fully utilize its credits and perks. It has a high annual fee, so the value depends on your spending habits.
- Chase Saphire Reserve: Offers a more balanced value proposition, with a lower annual fee and strong rewards on everyday spending categories like travel and dining.
- Winner: Tie
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Airport Lounge Access | Amex Platinum |
| Hotel Benefits | Amex Platinum |
| Travel Credit | Amex Platinum |
| Dining Rewards | Chase Sapphire Reserve |
| Overall Value | It Depends |
What They Have in Common
- Annual Fee: Both cards come with a significant annual fee, reflecting their premium status and associated benefits. This fee grants access to a suite of perks, offsetting the cost for frequent users.
- Rewards on Travel & Dining: Both cards offer elevated rewards rates on travel and dining purchases, making them attractive for those who spend heavily in these categories. This is a core feature for both cards, maximizing rewards potential.
- Airport Lounge Access: Both cards provide access to airport lounges, enhancing the travel experience by offering comfortable spaces to relax before flights. This benefit adds convenience and comfort to travel.
- Travel Insurance: Both cards include travel insurance benefits, providing protection against unforeseen circumstances such as trip cancellations or delays. This coverage offers peace of mind when traveling.
- No Foreign Transaction Fees: Neither card charges foreign transaction fees, making them ideal for international travel, as cardholders can make purchases abroad without incurring extra charges. This saves money on international spending.
Amex Platinum Vs Chase Sapphire Reserve Buying Guide
Earning Rewards
Both cards offer robust rewards programs, but they differ significantly. The Amex Platinum excels in categories like travel and dining, offering high rewards on flights booked directly with airlines or through Amex Travel, and at select restaurants worldwide. The Chase Sapphire Reserve also provides excellent travel rewards, especially when booking through the Chase Ultimate Rewards portal, and offers bonus rewards on dining and travel purchases. Consider your spending habits; if you travel frequently and spend heavily on flights and fine dining, the Amex Platinum may be a better fit. If you prefer more flexibility with a broader range of bonus categories and prefer booking travel through a portal, the Chase Sapphire Reserve could be the ideal choice.
Annual Fees
The annual fees for both cards are substantial. The Amex Platinum has a higher annual fee, reflecting its premium benefits and perks. The Chase Sapphire Reserve also carries a significant annual fee, though it’s typically lower than the Platinum’s. This is a crucial factor to consider. Evaluate the value you’ll receive from the card’s benefits to offset the annual fee. Consider whether the statement credits, travel perks, and other benefits align with your spending patterns and lifestyle. If you can fully utilize the benefits, the annual fee may be justified. If not, a card with a lower annual fee might be a better financial decision.
Travel Benefits
Both cards boast impressive travel benefits. The Amex Platinum offers access to a vast network of airport lounges, including Centurion Lounges and Priority Pass Select lounges, providing a comfortable pre-flight experience. It also provides credits for airlines and hotels. The Chase Sapphire Reserve offers a $300 annual travel credit that is automatically applied to travel purchases, along with access to Priority Pass Select lounges. Furthermore, the Chase Sapphire Reserve provides trip cancellation/interruption insurance and other travel protections. Compare the lounge access, travel credits, and insurance coverage to determine which card aligns better with your travel preferences and needs.
Spending Credits and Perks
Both cards offer various statement credits and perks to enhance their value. The Amex Platinum provides credits for specific purchases, such as airline incidental fees and streaming services. It also includes benefits like access to a global concierge service. The Chase Sapphire Reserve offers a travel credit, along with DoorDash and Instacart credits. Assess the value of each card’s perks and determine whether they align with your lifestyle. Consider whether you’ll utilize the credits and benefits regularly. The perks are designed to offset the annual fee, so using them is important to maximize the value you receive.
Redemption Options
The redemption options differ between the two cards. The Amex Platinum allows you to redeem rewards for travel, statement credits, gift cards, and merchandise. You can also transfer points to various airline and hotel partners, which can often provide higher value. The Chase Sapphire Reserve offers similar redemption options, including travel through the Chase Ultimate Rewards portal, cash back, gift cards, and merchandise. However, Chase points offer higher value when redeemed for travel through their portal, especially when compared to the value of cash back. Analyze which redemption options appeal most to you. Consider how you will use the points and the value you expect to receive.
Cardholder Experience
The cardholder experience can vary. The Amex Platinum is known for its premium feel, with a metal card design and excellent customer service. The Chase Sapphire Reserve also offers a premium card experience with a metal card design and responsive customer service. Both cards provide online account management tools and mobile apps for easy access. Consider the overall value of the card and what fits your needs best. Evaluate the cardholder experience and customer service, as well as any other benefits that come with the card.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy Amex Platinum If…
- You value premium perks like high-end lounge access (Centurion Lounges, etc.) and exclusive hotel benefits.
- You frequently utilize credits for services like Uber, Saks Fifth Avenue, and digital entertainment.
- You are willing to pay a higher annual fee for a broader range of luxury benefits and credits.
- You prefer to redeem points for luxury travel experiences, often leveraging transfer partners.
Buy Chase Sapphire Reserve If…
- You prefer a more straightforward rewards structure and value ease of use.
- You prioritize the flexibility of the Ultimate Rewards portal and a good points value.
- You are looking for a card that offers a strong balance of travel and dining rewards with a slightly lower annual fee.
- You want to maximize rewards on dining and travel while enjoying premium travel protections.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the annual fees for the Amex Platinum and Chase Sapphire Reserve?
The Amex Platinum has a higher annual fee. The Chase Sapphire Reserve has a lower annual fee, but it is still substantial. Both cards have significant fees due to their premium benefits. The exact amounts are subject to change, so consult the card issuer’s website for the most up-to-date information.
What are the primary rewards categories for each card?
The Amex Platinum excels in travel and dining, especially flights booked directly with airlines or through Amex Travel. The Chase Sapphire Reserve offers great rewards on dining and travel purchases made through the Chase Ultimate Rewards portal. Consider your spending and what categories you spend the most on to maximize rewards.
Do either card offer airport lounge access?
Yes, both cards offer airport lounge access, but through different programs. The Amex Platinum provides access to Centurion Lounges, International American Express Lounges, and Priority Pass Select lounges. The Chase Sapphire Reserve provides access to Priority Pass Select lounges. This benefit can significantly enhance the travel experience.
How do the travel credits work on each card?
The Amex Platinum offers statement credits for various travel-related expenses. The Chase Sapphire Reserve offers a $300 annual travel credit that is automatically applied to travel purchases. Both offer credits, but they work differently. Be sure to understand the details to maximize these valuable credits.
What are the primary differences in redemption options?
Both cards offer various redemption options. The Amex Platinum allows you to transfer points to airline and hotel partners. The Chase Sapphire Reserve offers travel through the Chase Ultimate Rewards portal. Consider where you like to travel, and which redemption option is most valuable to you.
Which card is better for everyday spending?
The Chase Sapphire Reserve is often considered better for everyday spending due to its bonus categories like dining and travel. However, the best card depends on your spending habits. Consider whether you spend a lot on travel or dining. Then compare the rewards rates and benefits of each card.
How do the welcome bonuses compare?
Both cards often offer generous welcome bonuses for new cardholders, but the amounts and requirements can change. Be sure to check the current offers for each card. Consider the spending requirements and the potential value of the bonus when comparing the cards.
Final Verdict
Both cards offer valuable benefits. The Amex Platinum is a strong choice for those who value premium travel perks and luxury experiences. The Chase Sapphire Reserve is a good option for those seeking a more flexible rewards program and a lower annual fee. Ultimately, the best card depends on your spending habits and priorities.
Winner: [Dependent on Your Choice]