Chase Sapphire vs Amex Platinum: Which Card Wins?
Choosing the right travel rewards credit card can feel like navigating a maze. Two of the most sought-after cards in the market, the Chase Sapphire and the American Express Platinum, promise a world of benefits, but which one truly reigns supreme? This comparison dives deep into the features, rewards, and perks of both cards to help you decide which aligns best with your spending habits and travel aspirations.
The Chase Sapphire family, known for its flexibility and ease of use, goes head-to-head with the premium American Express Platinum card. Both offer impressive rewards programs, but their approaches differ significantly. One card prioritizes ease of use and earning potential on everyday purchases, while the other focuses on luxury travel perks and statement credits.
Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or just beginning to explore the world, understanding the nuances of the Chase Sapphire and Amex Platinum is crucial. This detailed comparison will break down everything from welcome bonuses and annual fees to travel insurance and airport lounge access. Get ready to uncover which card unlocks the best value for your lifestyle.
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | Chase Sapphire | Amex Platinum |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Fee | Yes | Yes |
| Rewards on Travel | Yes | Yes |
| Rewards on Dining | Yes | Yes |
| Foreign Transaction Fees | No | No |
| Airport Lounge Access | Limited | Extensive |
| Travel Insurance | Yes | Yes |
| Purchase Protection | Yes | Yes |
| Statement Credits | No | Yes |
| Transfer Partners | Yes | Yes |
| Hotel Benefits | Yes | Extensive |
| Spending Bonuses | Yes | Yes |
| Card Design | Varies | Metal |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Annual Fee
- Chase Sapphire: The Chase Sapphire Preferred has an annual fee of $95, while the Chase Sapphire Reserve has a $550 annual fee. The higher annual fee for the Reserve comes with more premium perks. Consider your spending habits to determine if the benefits outweigh the cost.
- Amex Platinum: The Amex Platinum card has a significantly higher annual fee of $695. This fee unlocks a suite of luxury benefits, but it’s important to evaluate if you can fully utilize them to justify the cost.
- Winner: Chase Sapphire (Preferred)
Rewards on Travel & Dining
- Chase Sapphire: Chase Sapphire cards offer bonus rewards on travel and dining purchases. The Preferred card typically earns 2x points on travel and dining, while the Reserve card earns 3x points. This can lead to rapid point accumulation for frequent travelers and foodies.
- Amex Platinum: The Amex Platinum card provides rewards on travel, offering 5x points on flights booked directly with airlines or through Amex Travel, and on prepaid hotels booked through Amex Travel. Dining rewards are not as strong.
- Winner: Chase Sapphire (for broader dining rewards)
Travel Benefits
- Chase Sapphire: Both Sapphire cards offer travel benefits like trip cancellation/interruption insurance, baggage delay insurance, and primary auto rental collision damage waiver (Reserve only). These protections can provide peace of mind while traveling.
- Amex Platinum: The Amex Platinum boasts a more extensive suite of travel benefits, including access to the Global Lounge Collection (Centurion Lounges, Priority Pass, etc.), hotel elite status, and credits for various travel-related expenses.
- Winner: Amex Platinum
Airport Lounge Access
- Chase Sapphire: The Chase Sapphire Reserve grants access to the Priority Pass Select lounge network.
- Amex Platinum: The Amex Platinum provides access to the Global Lounge Collection, including Centurion Lounges, Delta Sky Clubs (when flying Delta), and Priority Pass Select. The Centurion Lounges are particularly sought after.
- Winner: Amex Platinum
Hotel Benefits
- Chase Sapphire: The Sapphire Reserve offers some hotel benefits through the Luxury Hotel & Resort Collection.
- Amex Platinum: The Amex Platinum offers elite status with hotel programs like Hilton Honors Gold and Marriott Bonvoy Gold, as well as access to the Fine Hotels & Resorts program with valuable perks.
- Winner: Amex Platinum
Credits & Perks
- Chase Sapphire: The Chase Sapphire Reserve offers an annual $300 travel credit.
- Amex Platinum: The Amex Platinum provides various statement credits, including credits for Uber/Uber Eats, Saks Fifth Avenue, and digital entertainment. These credits can offset the high annual fee if utilized effectively.
- Winner: Amex Platinum
Foreign Transaction Fees
- Chase Sapphire: Both Chase Sapphire cards have no foreign transaction fees.
- Amex Platinum: The Amex Platinum has no foreign transaction fees.
- Winner: Tie
Point Redemption Value
- Chase Sapphire: Chase Ultimate Rewards points can be redeemed for travel at a higher value when booking through Chase Travel. The Sapphire Reserve offers the best value. Points can also be transferred to airline and hotel partners.
- Amex Platinum: Amex Membership Rewards points can be redeemed for travel through Amex Travel or transferred to airline and hotel partners.
- Winner: Tie (depending on specific redemption needs)
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Annual Fee | Chase Sapphire |
| Rewards on Travel | Tie |
| Rewards on Dining | Tie |
| Airport Lounge Access | Amex Platinum |
| Statement Credits | Amex Platinum |
| Hotel Benefits | Amex Platinum |
| Overall Value | Tie |
What They Have in Common
- Rewards on Travel and Dining: Both cards offer elevated rewards on travel and dining purchases, allowing cardholders to earn points quickly on everyday spending.
- No Foreign Transaction Fees: Both cards eliminate foreign transaction fees, making them ideal for international travel without incurring extra charges.
- Travel Insurance: Both cards provide travel insurance benefits, including trip cancellation/interruption coverage and baggage delay insurance, offering peace of mind while traveling.
- Transfer Partners: Both cards allow you to transfer points to various airline and hotel loyalty programs, offering flexibility in redeeming rewards.
- Purchase Protection: Both cards provide purchase protection, which can cover damage or theft of eligible purchases made with the card.
Chase Sapphire Vs Amex Platinum Buying Guide
Choosing the Right Card for Travel Rewards
Selecting between the Chase Sapphire cards (Preferred and Reserve) and the American Express Platinum card hinges on your spending habits, travel preferences, and desired perks. The Sapphire cards, especially the Reserve, excel for their flexible points earning through Chase Ultimate Rewards, transferable to various airline and hotel partners. The Platinum card, however, caters to luxury travelers with its premium benefits like airport lounge access (Centurion Lounges, Priority Pass), hotel elite statuses, and valuable statement credits. Consider where you spend the most – dining, travel, or everyday purchases – and weigh the corresponding reward rates offered by each card. Analyzing your typical travel patterns, including the types of airlines and hotels you prefer, will help determine which card’s partner network aligns best with your needs.
Understanding Annual Fees and Value Proposition
Annual fees are a significant factor when comparing these cards. The Chase Sapphire Preferred has a lower annual fee compared to the Reserve, which, in turn, is considerably lower than the Amex Platinum’s. While the Platinum card’s fee is the highest, it’s often offset by its extensive statement credits, such as those for Uber, Saks Fifth Avenue, and digital entertainment. The Sapphire cards offer fewer statement credits but provide a strong value proposition through their points earning potential and travel benefits. Evaluate how you can utilize the perks associated with each card to maximize its value. Consider if the benefits outweigh the annual fee based on your spending and lifestyle. The value derived from points redemption and utilization of perks such as travel insurance, purchase protection, and concierge services are also important considerations.
Comparing Rewards and Earning Rates
Both cards offer rewards programs, but with different structures. The Chase Sapphire cards earn points on travel and dining, with bonus categories varying between Preferred and Reserve. The Amex Platinum offers rewards on select purchases, including travel booked through Amex Travel and some other categories, and generally has a lower base earning rate. The Chase Sapphire cards’ points are often considered more valuable due to their transferability to airline and hotel partners, providing potentially higher redemption values. The Amex Platinum’s rewards are often best redeemed through Amex Travel or for statement credits. Evaluate which spending categories align best with your habits and which card offers the highest return on your spending. Also, consider the flexibility of each program to redeem points for travel, cash back, or other rewards.
Analyzing Travel Benefits and Perks
The Amex Platinum card is renowned for its premium travel benefits. It provides access to airport lounges, including Centurion Lounges (when available), Delta Sky Clubs (when flying Delta), and Priority Pass lounges. It also offers hotel elite status with chains like Hilton and Marriott, which can lead to upgrades and other perks. The Chase Sapphire Reserve card offers a Priority Pass Select membership and travel insurance coverage, including trip cancellation/interruption insurance. Both cards offer purchase protection and extended warranty coverage, but the Platinum card often has more extensive coverage limits. Determine which benefits are most important to you based on your travel style and frequency. Consider the value of lounge access, hotel elite status, and travel insurance coverage when making your choice.
Assessing Additional Benefits and Credits
Beyond travel rewards, both cards offer various additional benefits. The Amex Platinum card provides statement credits for services like Uber, Saks Fifth Avenue, and digital entertainment subscriptions, which can help offset the annual fee. It also offers benefits like Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee credits. The Chase Sapphire cards typically have fewer direct statement credits but offer benefits such as DoorDash credits and a higher value on points redemption through Chase Ultimate Rewards. Evaluate which additional benefits align with your spending habits and lifestyle. Consider how these benefits contribute to the overall value you receive from the card. The credit value should offset a portion of the yearly fee.
Evaluating Card Suitability for Different Users
The Chase Sapphire cards are often a better fit for those seeking a balance of rewards, benefits, and a manageable annual fee. They are particularly attractive to travelers who value flexible points redemption options and who dine out frequently. The Amex Platinum card is geared toward luxury travelers who prioritize premium benefits and are willing to pay a higher annual fee. It’s ideal for those who frequently use airport lounges, value hotel elite status, and can take advantage of the card’s statement credits. Consider your spending patterns, travel frequency, and desired perks to determine which card best suits your needs. The best card depends on whether you seek value via point flexibility and redemption value, or luxury benefits and credits.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy Chase Sapphire If…
- You prefer a card with a lower annual fee.
- You want a card with strong rewards on travel and dining.
- You value the ability to transfer points to airline and hotel partners.
- You want a card with good travel insurance and purchase protection.
Buy Amex Platinum If…
- You are willing to pay a higher annual fee for premium benefits.
- You want extensive airport lounge access.
- You value statement credits for various purchases.
- You want premium hotel benefits and travel perks.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary difference between Chase Sapphire and Amex Platinum?
The Chase Sapphire cards offer flexible points earning and transferability to airline and hotel partners, catering to a broader audience. The Amex Platinum card focuses on premium travel benefits like lounge access and hotel elite status, appealing to luxury travelers. The Amex card also provides statement credits for various lifestyle purchases, offseting its higher annual fee, whereas the Chase cards offer a lower fee and better earning on travel and dining.
How do I redeem points/rewards with each card?
Chase Sapphire points are redeemed through Chase Ultimate Rewards, offering options for travel, cash back, and gift cards. Points can also be transferred to airline and hotel partners for potentially higher value. Amex Platinum rewards are redeemed through Amex Travel, for statement credits, or for merchandise. The Platinum card’s points are also transferrable to airline and hotel partners, although the value is lower compared to Chase.
Which card offers better travel insurance?
Both cards provide travel insurance, but the Chase Sapphire Reserve generally offers more comprehensive coverage, including trip cancellation/interruption insurance, baggage delay insurance, and rental car insurance. The Amex Platinum also provides some travel insurance, but the coverage may be less extensive and the terms and conditions vary. Check the card’s guide to benefits for details.
What are the annual fees for each card?
The Chase Sapphire Preferred has a lower annual fee compared to the Reserve. The Amex Platinum card has a significantly higher annual fee. The annual fee is offset by statement credits and benefits for the Amex Platinum. The Chase cards offer a lower annual fee with a focus on rewards and points value. Evaluate the benefits against the fee.
Which card is better for airport lounge access?
The Amex Platinum card provides superior airport lounge access, including Centurion Lounges (when available), Delta Sky Clubs (when flying Delta), and Priority Pass lounges. The Chase Sapphire Reserve offers Priority Pass Select membership, but the lounge access may be more limited. The Amex Platinum, therefore, has greater worldwide lounge access.
How do the cards compare in terms of earning rates?
The Chase Sapphire cards earn bonus points on travel, dining, and other select categories. The Amex Platinum earns rewards on select purchases, including travel booked through Amex Travel. The earning rate varies by category. Chase Sapphire offers higher earning rates on travel and dining. The Amex Platinum offers various bonus categories, but with a different earning structure.
Which card is better for dining and restaurant spending?
Chase Sapphire cards, particularly the Reserve, often offer higher earning rates on dining purchases compared to the Amex Platinum card. The Amex Platinum might offer a lower earning rate on dining. The Chase Sapphire cards are considered to be better for dining rewards. Evaluate your spending habits and choose the one that aligns better with your lifestyle.
Final Verdict
Both the Chase Sapphire and Amex Platinum cards offer compelling benefits, but they cater to different needs. The Amex Platinum is for luxury travelers who prioritize premium perks like lounge access and statement credits, even with a high annual fee. The Chase Sapphire cards, particularly the Reserve, provide a strong balance of rewards, travel benefits, and a more manageable annual fee. The Chase Sapphire Reserve’s flexible points and travel insurance are more valuable for average travelers.
Winner: Chase Sapphire Reserve