Best metal credit cards of November 2024
Metal cards are just as attractive as they are functional, which is why we have compiled a list of the best metal credit cards. Metal credit cards don’t just look and feel great; they also boast incredible rewards and premium perks. Once a status symbol of the wealthy, metal credit cards have now become popular among everyday credit cards.
Metal credit cards offer increased durability and premium perks, so these cards can be so much more than what they’re made of. Here are our top picks for the best metal credit cards from our partners.
- The Platinum Card® from American Express: Best for luxury benefits
- Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card: Best for premium travel
- Chase Sapphire Reserve®: Best for dining and travel insurance
- Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card: Best for mid-tier travel
- Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card: Best for SkyClub access
- American Express® Business Gold Card: Best for flexible reward earnings
- United Club℠ Infinite Card: Best for United Club access
- Ritz-Carlton Rewards® Credit Card: Best for Ritz-Carlton enthusiasts
Best for luxury benefits
| 5X | Earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points for flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year. |
| 5X | Earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel. |
The Amex Platinum is unmatched when it comes to travel perks and benefits. If lounge access, hotel elite status and annual statement credits are important to you, this card is well worth the high annual fee. Read our full review of the Platinum Card from American Express.
Pros
- The current welcome offer on this card is quite lucrative. TPG values it at $1,600.
- This card comes with a long list of benefits, including access to Centurion Lounges, complimentary elite status with Hilton and Marriott, assorted annual statement credits and so much more (enrollment required for select benefits).
- The Amex Platinum comes with access to a premium concierge service that can help you with everything from booking hard-to-get reservations to finding destination guides to help you plan out your next getaway.
Cons
- The $695 annual fee is only worth it if you’re taking full advantage of the card’s benefits. Seldom travelers may not get enough value to warrant the cost.
- Outside of the current welcome bonus, you’re only earning bonus rewards on specific airfare and hotel purchases, so it’s not a great card for other spending categories.
- The annual airline fee credit and other statement credits can be complicated to take advantage of compared to the broader travel credits offered by competing premium cards.
- Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $8,000 on eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.
- Earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points for flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year and earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel.
- $200 Hotel Credit: Get up to $200 back in statement credits each year on prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts® or The Hotel Collection bookings through American Express Travel using your Platinum Card®. The Hotel Collection requires a minimum two-night stay.
- $240 Digital Entertainment Credit: Get up to $20 back in statement credits each month on eligible purchases made with your Platinum Card® on one or more of the following: Disney+, a Disney Bundle, ESPN+, Hulu, The New York Times, Peacock, and The Wall Street Journal. Enrollment required.
- The American Express Global Lounge Collection® can provide an escape at the airport. With complimentary access to more than 1,400 airport lounges across 140 countries and counting, you have more airport lounge options than any other credit card issuer on the market. As of 03/2023.
- $155 Walmart+ Credit: Save on eligible delivery fees, shipping, and more with a Walmart+ membership. Use your Platinum Card® to pay for a monthly Walmart+ membership and get up to $12.95 plus applicable taxes back on one membership (excluding Plus Ups) each month.
- $200 Airline Fee Credit: Select one qualifying airline and then receive up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year when incidental fees are charged by the airline to your Platinum Card®.
- $200 Uber Cash: Platinum Card® Members can get out and about and explore their local area with $15 in Uber Cash for US rides each month, plus a bonus $20 in December. That can be up to $200 in annual Uber savings. Simply download the Uber app and add your Platinum Card® to your Uber account to get started. Available to Basic Card Member only. Effective 11/8/2024, an Amex Card must be selected as the payment method for your Uber or Uber Eats transaction to redeem the Amex Uber Cash benefit.
- $199 CLEAR® Plus Credit: CLEAR® Plus helps to get you to your gate faster at 50+ airports nationwide and get up to $199 back per calendar year on your Membership (subject to auto-renewal) when you use your Card. CLEARLanes are available at 100+ airports, stadiums, and entertainment venues.
- Receive either a $120 statement credit every 4 years for a Global Entry application fee or a statement credit up to $85 every 4.5 years for a TSA PreCheck® (through a TSA official enrollment provider) application fee, when charged to your Platinum Card®. Card Members approved for Global Entry will also receive access to TSA PreCheck at no additional cost.
- Shop Saks with Platinum: Get up to $100 in statement credits annually for purchases in Saks Fifth Avenue stores or at saks.com on your Platinum Card®. That's up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.
- Unlock access to exclusive reservations and special dining experiences with Global Dining Access by Resy when you add your Platinum Card® to your Resy profile.
- $695 annual fee.¤
- Terms Apply.
- See Rates & Fees
Best for premium travel
| 10 Miles | 10 Miles per dollar on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel |
| 5 Miles | 5 Miles per dollar on flights and vacation rentals booked through Capital One Travel |
| 2 Miles | 2 Miles per dollar on every purchase, every day |
The Capital One Venture X is a luxury travel credit card with many premium perks but a fair annual fee of $395. In addition, it earns transferable miles and offers at least 2 miles per dollar on every purchase. Read our full review of the Capital One Venture X.
Pros
- 75,000 bonus miles when you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening
- 10,000 bonus miles every account anniversary
Cons
- $395 annual fee
- $300 in credit annually only applicable for bookings made through Capital One Travel portal
- Earn 75,000 bonus miles when you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel
- Receive a $300 annual credit for bookings through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options
- Get 10,000 bonus miles (equal to $100 towards travel) every year, starting on your first anniversary
- Earn unlimited 10X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel and 5X miles on flights and vacation rentals booked through Capital One Travel
- Earn unlimited 2X miles on all other purchases
- Unlimited complimentary access for you and two guests to 1,300+ lounges, including Capital One Lounges and the Partner Lounge Network
- Use your Venture X miles to easily cover travel expenses, including flights, hotels, rental cars and more—you can even transfer your miles to your choice of 15+ travel loyalty programs
- Enjoy a $100 experience credit and other premium benefits with every hotel and vacation rental booked from the Premier Collection
- Receive up to a $120 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck®
Best for dining and travel insurance
| 10x | Earn 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Travel℠. |
| 5x | Earn 5x total points on flights through Chase Travel℠. |
| 3x | Earn 3x points on other travel and dining. |
| 1x | Earn 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases. |
The Chase Sapphire Reserve is one of our top premium travel cards. With a $300 travel credit, bonus points on dining and travel purchases and other benefits, you can get excellent value that far exceeds the annual fee on the card. Read our full review of the Chase Sapphire Reserve.
Pros
- $300 Annual travel credit as reimbursement for travel purchases charged to your card each account anniversary year
- Access to Chase Ultimate Rewards hotel and airline travel partners
- 10 points per dollar on hotels and car rentals booked through Chase Travel, 10 points per dollar on Chase Dining purchases through the Ultimate Rewards portal, 5 points per dollar on flights booked through Chase Travel, 3 points per dollar on all other travel and dining, 1 point per dollar on everything else.
- 50% more value when you redeem your points for travel directly through Chase Travel Portal
Cons
- Steep initial $550 annual fee
- May not make sense for people that don't travel frequently
- Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
- $300 Annual Travel Credit as reimbursement for travel purchases charged to your card each account anniversary year.
- Earn 5x total points on flights and 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Travel℠ immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually. Earn 3x points on other travel and dining & 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases
- Get 50% more value when you redeem your points for travel through Chase Travel℠. For example, 60,000 points are worth $900 toward travel.
- Get complimentary access to DashPass which unlocks $0 delivery fees and lower service fees for a minimum of one year when you activate by December 31, 2027.
- 1:1 point transfer to leading airline and hotel loyalty programs
- Access to 1,300+ airport lounges worldwide after an easy, one-time enrollment in Priority Pass™ Select and up to $100 application fee credit every four years for Global Entry, NEXUS, or TSA PreCheck®
- Count on Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver, Lost Luggage Insurance and more.
- Member FDIC
Best for mid-tier travel
| 5x | 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠. |
| 3x | 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries. |
| 2x | 2x on all other travel purchases. |
| 1x | 1x on all other purchases. |
The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card is one of the most popular metal cards because it offers great value in addition to its appearance. This card packs several perks that can easily justify its $95 annual fee. Besides great reward rates on travel and dining purchases, cardholders can transfer their points to any of Chase’s 14 airline and hotel partners. Read our full review of the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card.
Pros
- Multiple bonus categories
- Annual hotel statement credit when booked through Chase Travel
- Premium travel protection insurance
Cons
- The card comes with a $95 annual fee.
- Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
- Enjoy benefits such as 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases, $50 Annual Chase Travel Hotel Credit, plus more.
- Get 25% more value when you redeem for airfare, hotels, car rentals and cruises through Chase Travel℠. For example, 60,000 points are worth $750 toward travel.
- Count on Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver, Lost Luggage Insurance and more.
- Get complimentary access to DashPass which unlocks $0 delivery fees and lower service fees for a minimum of one year when you activate by December 31, 2027.
- Member FDIC
Best for SkyClub access
| 3X | Earn 3X Miles on Delta purchases. |
| 1X | Earn 1X Miles on all other eligible purchases. |
The Delta SkyMiles Reserve American Express Card is the premier choice for Delta loyalists who value an accelerated path to elite status, Delta SkyClubs lounge access, an annual companion certificate and strong earning rates on Delta purchases. Read our review of the Delta SkyMiles Reserve card.
Pros
- Statement credit for TSA PreCheck (up to $85 every 4.5 years) or Global Entry fee ($100 every 4 years, increasing to $120 Oct. 1, 2024)
- Delta SkyClub access when flying Delta. Effective 2/1/25, Reserve Card Members will receive 15 Visits per year to the Delta Sky Club; to earn an unlimited number of Visits each year starting on 2/1/25, the total eligible purchases on the Card must equal $75,000 or more between 1/1/24 and 12/31/24, and each calendar year thereafter.
Cons
- High annual fee of $650
- Lower fee Delta cobranded cards offer superior earning categories
- Earn 70,000 Bonus Miles after you spend $5,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.
- Enjoy complimentary access to the Delta Sky Club® when you fly Delta. Effective 2/1/25, Reserve Card Members will receive 15 Visits per year to the Delta Sky Club; to earn an unlimited number of Visits each year starting on 2/1/25, the total eligible purchases on the Card must equal $75,000 or more between 1/1/24 and 12/31/24, and each calendar year thereafter. Once all 15 Visits have been used, Eligible Card Members may purchase additional Delta Sky Club Visits at a per-Visit rate of $50 per person using the Card.
- Receive four Delta Sky Club® One-Time Guest Passes each year when you fly Delta so you can share the experience with family and friends.
- Enjoy complimentary access to The Centurion® Lounge when you book a Delta flight with your Reserve Card.
- Receive $2,500 Medallion® Qualification Dollars each Medallion Qualification Year and get closer to Status with MQD Headstart.
- Earn $1 Medallion® Qualification Dollar for each $10 of purchases made on your Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card in a calendar year and get a boost toward achieving elevated Medallion Status for next Medallion Year.
- Receive a Companion Certificate on a Main Cabin round-trip flight within the U.S. and to Mexico, the Caribbean, or Central America each year after renewal of your Card. The Companion Ticket requires payment of the government-imposed taxes and fees of no more than $80 for round-trip domestic flights and no more than $250 for round-trip international flights (both for itineraries with up to four flight segments). Baggage charges and other restrictions apply. See terms and conditions for details.
- $240 Resy Credit: When you use your Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card for eligible purchases with U.S. Resy restaurants, you can earn up to $20 each month in statement credits. Enrollment required.
- $120 Rideshare Credit: Earn up to $10 back in statement credits each month after you use your Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card to pay for U.S. rideshare purchases with select providers. Enrollment required.
- Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card Members get 15% off when using miles to book Award Travel on Delta flights through delta.com and the Fly Delta app. Discount not applicable to partner-operated flights or to taxes and fees.
- With your Card receive upgrade priority over other Medallion Members within the same Medallion level and fare class.
- Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card Members with an eligible ticket will be added to the Complimentary Upgrade list, after Delta SkyMiles Medallion Members.
- Earn 3X Miles on Delta purchases and earn 1X Miles on all other eligible purchases.
- No Foreign Transaction Fees.
- $650 Annual Fee.
- Apply with confidence. Know if you're approved for a Card with no impact to your credit score. If you're approved and you choose to accept this Card, your credit score may be impacted.
- Terms Apply.
- See Rates & Fees
Best for flexible reward earnings
| 4X | Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points on the top two eligible categories where your business spends the most each month from 6 eligible categories. While your top 2 categories may change, you will earn 4X points on the first $150,000 in combined purchases from these categories each calendar year (then 1X thereafter). Only the top 2 categories each billing cycle will count towards the $150,000 cap.* |
| 3X | Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points on flights and prepaid hotels booked on amextravel.com using your Business Gold Card.* |
| 1X | 1X is earned for other purchases. ** |
The Amex Business Gold card is a solid choice for high-spending small businesses with the flexibility to earn 4 points per dollar in the two categories where you spend the most. The card is ideal for businesses who value simplicity above all. Read our full review of the American Express Business Gold Card.
Pros
- You'll earn 4 Membership Rewards points per dollar in the top 2 spending categories each billing cycle (on the first $150,000 in combined purchases each calendar year, then 1 point per dollar).
Cons
- Hefty $375 annual fee.
- No monthly or annual credits such as on The Business Platinum Card® from American Express or consumer American Express® Gold Card.
- There may be better options for small businesses who don't spend a lot.
- Welcome Offer: Earn 100,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $15,000 on eligible purchases with the Business Gold Card within the first 3 months of Card Membership.*
- 0% Intro APR ¤ for 6 months from the date of account opening on purchases eligible for Pay Over Time, then a 18.74% to 27.74% variable APR.*
- Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points on the top two eligible categories where your business spends the most each month from 6 eligible categories. While your top 2 categories may change, you will earn 4X points on the first $150,000 in combined purchases from these categories each calendar year (then 1X thereafter). Only the top 2 categories each billing cycle will count towards the $150,000 cap.*
- Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points on flights and prepaid hotels booked on amextravel.com using your Business Gold Card.*
- Earn up to $20 in statement credits monthly after you use the Business Gold Card for eligible U.S. purchases at FedEx, Grubhub, and Office Supply Stores. This can be an annual savings of up to $240. Enrollment required.
- Get up to a $12.95** statement credit back each month after you pay for a monthly Walmart+ membership (subject to auto-renewal) with your Business Gold Card. **Up to $12.95 plus applicable taxes on one membership fee.*
- The Business Gold Card now comes in three metal designs: Gold, Rose Gold and Limited Edition White Gold. White Gold design is only available while supplies last. Make your selection when you apply on Americanexpress.com.
- *Terms Apply
Best for United Club access
| 4x | 4x miles on United® purchases |
| 2x | 2x miles on all other travel and dining |
| 1x | 1x mile on all other purchases |
Only the United Club Infinite Card grants you complimentary United Club lounge membership, worth up to $650 per year. Although this card comes with a steep $525 annual fee, the lounge benefit alone can more than cover this annual cost. Not to mention the other ongoing perks of this card, from two free checked bags and up to $120 statement credit for Global Entry or TSA Precheck. For frequent United flyers, this card can provide tons of value each year. Read our full review of the United Club Infinite Card.
Pros
- Earn 4 miles per dollar on United purchases; 2 miles per dollar on travel and dining; 1 mile per dollar on everything else
- United Club℠ membership for you and your eligible travel companions at all United Club locations and participating Star Alliance lounges worldwide
- Up to $120 statement credit for Global Entry/TSA Precheck application every four years
- Free first and second checked bags for you and one travel companion on the same reservation
- 25% inflight purchase statement credit
Cons
- High $525 annual fee
- Limited-time Offer: Earn 90,000 bonus miles
- 4x miles on United® purchases
- 2x miles on all other travel and dining
- 1x mile on all other purchases
- United Club℠ membership - up to $650 value per year
- Free first and second checked bags - a savings of up to $360 per roundtrip (terms apply) - and Premier Access® travel services
- Earn up to 10,000 Premier qualifying points per calendar year (25 PQP for every $500 you spend on purchases)
- Member FDIC
Best for Ritz-Carlton enthusiasts
Ritz-Carlton Rewards® Credit Card
| 6X | 6X points for every $1 spent at over 7,000 hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy®. |
| 3X | 3X points for every $1 spent on dining, car rentals and airline purchases. |
| 2X | 2X points for every $1 spent on all other purchases. |
Pros
- Annual free night award
- Offers lounge access
- Features a $300 annual travel credit
Cons
- This card isn’t available to new applicants (though you can still get it)
- No welcome offer is available since you must upgrade from another card to get this one
The Ritz-Carlton Rewards® Credit Card* makes sense for Ritz loyalists who frequent the upscale hotel chain. The myriad perks of card membership — like an annual free night award and complimentary Marriott Bonvoy elite status — help offset the $450 annual fee.
Comparing the best metal credit cards
Credit card | Best for | Intro offer | Earning rate | Annual fee |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Open Editors rating Card Rating is based on the opinion of TPG‘s editors and is not influenced by the card issuer. at American Express's secure site | luxury benefits | Earn 80,000 points Open Intro bonus Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $8,000 on eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. | 5X points | $695 |
Open Editors rating Card Rating is based on the opinion of TPG‘s editors and is not influenced by the card issuer. at Capital One's secure site | premium travel | Earn 75,000 miles Open Intro bonus Earn 75,000 bonus miles when you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel | 2 - 10X miles | $395 |
Open Editors rating Card Rating is based on the opinion of TPG‘s editors and is not influenced by the card issuer. at Chase's secure site | dining and travel insurance | 60,000 bonus points Open Intro bonus Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. | 1 - 10X points | $550 |
Open Editors rating Card Rating is based on the opinion of TPG‘s editors and is not influenced by the card issuer. at Chase's secure site | mid-tier travel | 60,000 bonus points Open Intro bonus Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. | 1 - 5X points | $95 |
Open Editors rating Card Rating is based on the opinion of TPG‘s editors and is not influenced by the card issuer. at American Express's secure site | SkyClub access | Earn 70,000 Bonus Miles Open Intro bonus Earn 70,000 Bonus Miles after you spend $5,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. | 1 - 3X points | $650 |
ELEVATED BONUS OFFER Open Editors rating Card Rating is based on the opinion of TPG‘s editors and is not influenced by the card issuer. at American Express's secure site | flexible reward earnings | Earn 100,000 points Open Intro bonus Earn 100,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $15,000 on eligible purchases with the Business Gold Card within the first 3 months of Card Membership.* | 1 - 4X points | $375 |
Open Editors rating Card Rating is based on the opinion of TPG‘s editors and is not influenced by the card issuer. at Chase's secure site | United Club access | Earn 90,000 bonus miles Open Intro bonus Limited-time Offer: Earn 90,000 bonus miles after you spend $5,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. | 1 - 4X points | $525 |
Ritz-Carlton Rewards® Credit Card * *The information about the Ritz-Carlton Rewards® Credit Card has been collected independently by ThePointsGuy.com. The card details have not been reviewed or approved by the card issuer. Open Editors rating Card Rating is based on the opinion of TPG‘s editors and is not influenced by the card issuer. Information updated as of 07/29/2024 | Ritz-Carlton enthusiasts | N/A | 2 - 6X points | $450 |
More details on the best metal credit cards
The Platinum Card from American Express is the ultimate luxury travel card. It features a long list of benefits, including extensive lounge access, multiple statement credits and numerous travel and shopping protections.
Frequent travelers who enjoy more luxurious accommodations would find the Amex Platinum and its various perks and benefits to be a terrific choice for them.
“Whilst this card has a high $695 annual fee (see rates and fees), it more than justifies itself for frequent travelers like me. The lounge access options that come with the Platinum are unrivaled by competitors. I put all of my flights — whether bought with cash or points — on this card to earn 5 points per dollar spent (on up to $500,000 in these purchases per year, then 1 point per dollar) and to enjoy various travel protections. I also make sure to take full advantage of the array of statement credits. And, honestly, pulling a Platinum card out of your wallet to pay for something does feel pretty fancy.” — Matt Moffitt, senior editor
If you want a premium travel credit card but can’t justify the Amex Platinum’s high annual fee, consider the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card. It features similar benefits with a significantly lower annual fee.
The Capital One Venture X is a luxury travel credit card with many premium perks but a fair annual fee of $395 (see rates and fees). In addition, it earns transferable miles and offers at least 2 miles per dollar on every purchase.
Frequent travelers who want a premium travel credit card that is relatively affordable should consider the Capital One Venture X.
“With an annual fee that is $300 less than The Platinum Card® from American Express, the Capital One Venture X card is my favorite travel credit card. The card comes with an annual $300 Capital One Travel portal credit, which I use to book flights. That effectively brings the annual fee down to $95 per year (see rates and fees). Cardholders also enjoy a Priority Pass Select membership. I use my Venture X card to earn 2 miles per dollar (a 3.7% return at TPG’s valuations) in spending categories where most cards would only accrue 1 mile (such as auto maintenance and medical bills).” — Kyle Olsen, former reporter
If you are looking for the most premium travel credit card with maximum perks and benefits, consider The Platinum Card® from American Express, which offers a lengthy list of benefits and annual statement credits.
The Chase Sapphire Reserve is a great premium travel card with high-end perks like bonus earning on travel purchases, lounge access and a $300 annual travel credit.
The Chase Sapphire Reserve is a solid pick for frequent travelers who would be able to take advantage of the premium perks and benefits.
“The Chase Sapphire Reserve is a no-brainer for me. My top two spending categories are travel and dining, and this card lets me earn 3 points per dollar in both of these categories. Then, I can transfer these points to one of Chase’s 14 travel partners or redeem them for a generous 1.5 cents apiece through the Chase travel portal or Pay Yourself Back program. The card has a high annual fee, but I don’t mind paying it thanks to perks like a $300 travel credit, Priority Pass lounge access and impressive travel protections.” — Benji Stawski, former senior reporter
If you’re looking for the most premium and luxurious travel credit card, consider The Platinum Card® from American Express instead. The Amex Platinum comes with more perks and benefits — and a higher annual fee.
The Chase Sapphire Preferred is one of the best mid-tier travel credit cards available. It features bonus earnings on travel and dining purchases, comprehensive travel protections and a reasonable annual fee.
New travelers should consider the Chase Sapphire Preferred because Chase points are transferable and the card has a fair annual fee.
“The Chase Sapphire Preferred has been in my wallet for more than five years and is the go-to mid-level rewards credit card that I recommend to people. It usually has a pretty solid sign-up bonus, with points that can be transferred to some of my favorite loyalty programs, like British Airways Executive Club and World of Hyatt. The strong earning rates on dining and travel as well as streaming services make it a good choice for a millennial like me. Finally, I like using this card when renting cars, as it provides primary rental car insurance and a little more peace of mind.” — Matt Moffitt, senior credit cards editor
If you’re a frequent traveler, consider the higher-end Chase Sapphire Reserve®. This card offers earning rates similar to the Sapphire Preferred’s but includes a number of additional perks, including a $300 annual travel credit and Priority Pass Select membership. If you are looking for a lower-cost travel credit card but prefer American Express Membership Rewards points, consider the American Express® Green Card, which offers comparable benefits and an annual fee of $150 (see rates and fees).
The information for the Amex Green Card has been collected independently by The Points Guy. the card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.
The Delta Reserve Amex is a luxury credit card with premium perks like a free checked bag for you and eight companions, priority boarding, Sky Club access and more.
Many of the Delta Reserve’s premium benefits are specific to Delta Air Lines, so this card would be a good option for frequent Delta flyers.
“As a Delta Diamond Medallion, I spend a lot of time on Delta jets. The Delta Reserve card helps me maintain my status by offering shortcuts to earning (and retaining) status. Plus, the card's annual companion ticket is valid on first-class itineraries and has helped me offset the card's annual fee multiple years in a row.” — Andrew Kunesh, former points and miles editor
If you like the premium perks offered by the Delta Reserve Amex but are not loyal to Delta, consider The Platinum Card® from American Express instead. It offers many similar perks (including Sky Club access when flying Delta) but earns Membership Rewards points which can be transferred to Delta SkyMiles or any of Amex's other travel partners.
Effective 2/1/25, Reserve Card Members will receive 15 Visits per year to the Delta Sky Club; to earn an unlimited number of Visits each year starting on 2/1/25, the total eligible purchases on the Card must equal $75,000 or more between 1/1/24 and 12/31/24, and each calendar year thereafter.
The Amex Business Gold helps small businesses automatically earn 4 points per dollar in the two categories they spend the most on each billing cycle (on the first $150,000 in combined purchases each calendar year, then 1 point per dollar). The card earns Membership Rewards points, an incredibly valuable transferable currency, and it features a number of added protections as well.
Small-business owners that primarily spend in the bonus-eligible categories of the Amex Business Gold can get incredible value out of the card. In addition, the card’s perks and benefits can help make business travel smoother.
“No other card provides the earning potential and adaptability this card has. Sure, its $375 annual fee isn’t cheap, but I love the fact I don’t need to think about what purchases I put on this card. It will automatically adapt and provide 4 points per dollar in my top two spending categories each billing cycle.” — Ryan Smith, former credit cards writer
If your small business can’t justify the Business Gold’s $375 annual fee but you still want to earn transferable points, consider the Blue Business® Plus Credit Card from American Express, which earns 2 Membership Rewards points per dollar spent on all purchases (on up to $50,000 in spending each calendar year, then 1 point).
The United Club Infinite is the ultimate card for a frequent United Airlines flyer. Cardholders enjoy a United Club membership, including access for two guests or one adult and dependent children under the age of 21. You’ll also enjoy two free checked bags for the primary cardholder and a companion on the same United reservation.
Frequent United flyers will find great value in the airline-specific perks offered by the United Club Infinite.
The United Club Infinite offers premium United perks like lounge access, travel protections and free checked bags. These benefits make the card a great addition to any loyal United flyer’s wallet.
If you are a loyal United flyer but don’t think you can justify the United Club Infinite’s annual fee, consider the United℠ Explorer Card instead. The card carries a modest $95 annual fee (with a $0 introductory annual fee for the first year) but still comes with premium perks like two annual lounge passes, a free checked bag and a statement credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck.
The Ritz-Carlton Rewards® Credit Card comes packed with benefits like automatic elite status, a $300 annual travel credit, 15 elite night credits each calendar year and more!
*The information for the Ritz-Carlton Rewards Card has been collected independently by The Points Guy. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.
If you prioritize staying at Ritz-Carlton properties, this card’s benefits and perks may be the best fit for your wallet.
The Ritz-Carlton Rewards® comes packed with perks and benefits for Ritz properties. If you’re a Ritz loyalist, this card’s annual fee can be easily offset by its luxury perks.
If you’re looking for a similarly premium travel card but want more general travel rewards, consider the Chase Sapphire Reserve®.
Maximizing metal credit cards
Choose a globally accepted metal credit card
Thankfully, there are several metal credit cards to choose from across issuers that are accepted worldwide. American Express, Chase and Capital One are among the many issuers that offer metal credit cards that are accepted nearly everywhere. It’s also nice that these issuers — along with many others — also offer great travel perks and rewards for cardholders to utilize.
It’s also a good idea to load your metal credit cards into your phone’s mobile wallet or your smartwatch in the event that tap-to-pay isn’t available at a retailer and your cards don’t fit in the reader.
Take advantage of premium perks
Most metal credit cards are premium tier, and this exclusivity also extends to the types of perks and rewards you can access. Consider this when transferring earned points and miles across your metal cards — you might be able to use combined rewards for seat upgrades on your flights or even additional nights at your favorite hotel or resort to make a vacation last a little longer, all at zero out-of-pocket cost.
This is in addition to things like exclusive event access and more generous welcome bonuses when you open a new account.
Never worry about damaging your card
Yes, metal credit cards offer tons of perks — including the appreciation of those around you when you pull a metal card from your wallet to cover a purchase or meal. But another great attribute that anyone who holds a misshapen credit card can attest to is the fact that metal credit cards are sturdy. They don’t bend easily — in fact, they’re pretty tough to break and thus require a little extra effort when you need to dispose of them after they expire.
Related: Battle of the metal credit cards — which is strongest?
If you tend to drop your cards often or are simply heavy-handed when it comes to handling them, a metal card will withstand more abuse than a plastic one can. Plus, if you’ve ever accidentally dropped your metal card when sliding it back into your wallet, the clang of metal against concrete will alert you that something’s amiss (trust us, we’ve been there).
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What is a metal credit card?
A metal credit card is a card made (at least in part) from metal. Most cards are made from plastic which is what makes metal cards so unique. The actual material composition will vary by card, but typical metals include brushed stainless steel, brass or copper.
In comparison to plastic cards, metal cards are significantly heavier and sturdier. This gives the card a more “high-end” appearance. This notion of luxury is also influenced by the fact that many luxury cards are made from metal, such as the American Express Platinum. Today, metal cards are no longer unique to luxury cards, and many non-luxury cards are now made from metal.
Who should get a metal credit card?
Metal credit cards are generally premium travel credit cards. Most cards on this list carry an annual fee, feature premium travel benefits and require an excellent credit score. As a result, we recommend most of these cards for more experienced credit card holders.
How to choose the best metal credit card
- Think about how much you typically spend month-to-month and whether or not your budget will allow you to meet the minimum spend requirement in order to earn the sign-up bonus.1Sign-up bonus
- Most metal cards come with an annual fee. When you're choosing the best one for your specific needs, think about what categories you can earn rewards in and if the earning potential of a card outweighs its annual fee.2Annual fee
- Metal cards offer differing categories in which you can earn points, miles or cash back. Choose the card that offers the highest number of bonus categories you usually spend money in frequently.3Bonus categories
Ask our experts
What is your favorite metal credit card and why?
Pros + cons of metal credit cards
Pros
- Metal credit cards can be sturdier than their plastic counterparts.
- Most metal credit cards include premium perks and travel benefits.
- You can add many metal cards to your mobile wallet if you don’t want to carry them around.
Cons
- Metal cards are hardy to dispose of when you cancel them or they expire, since they won’t go in a shredder.
- So many issuers use metal cards these days that it’s no longer as “special” as it once was.
- Some heftier metal cards may not work at automatic card payment terminals — like some train stations or parking garages.
Frequently asked questions
Many credit card issuers have metal credit cards, including some with low annual fees and most premium cards. In order to get a metal credit card, you have to apply for a new card and get approved.
There is no official reason for card issuers to make their credit cards metal, though these cards can be more durable than their plastic counterparts, and some travelers like the heft of them. Metal credit cards are typically designed for consumers with higher spending and include premium perks and benefits, though some have reasonable annual fees.
The best way to dispose of your metal credit card is to mail it back to the card issuer. Most card issuers recommend this method. Don’t use a normal shredder like you would with plastic cards, as this could ruin the machine.
Metal credit cards have the same safety features as plastic credit cards. There is no difference in terms of security between metal and plastic cards.