Choosing between the American Express® Gold Card and the Platinum Card® from American Express is one of the more common comparisons made by those looking for an upgraded rewards credit card. While both cards earn American Express Membership Rewards® points and offer various benefits, they are designed for two very different types of cardholders.
The American Express Gold Card focuses on everyday spending and dining-related perks, while the Platinum Card is positioned as a premium travel and lifestyle product with an extensive list of benefits and statement credits.
Given the differences in the cardholder benefits offered by each card, the difference in the annual fee that accompanies each card is also quite significant.
This guide breaks down the key differences between the two cards, including annual fees, earning rates, benefits, and statement credits. Rather than declaring a universal winner, you will find that each card is quite solid but only if your spending habits and lifestyle align with the benefits offered by each.
Here’s what you need to know about two of American Express’ most popular rewards credit cards.
- Amex Gold is best suited for everyday spending, especially dining and U.S. supermarket purchases, where it delivers strong ongoing earning potential.
- Amex Platinum is designed for frequent travelers who will consistently use airport lounges, premium travel programs, and statement credits.
- The large difference in annual fees means value depends on usage, not headline benefits.
- Some cardholders carry both cards: Gold for everyday earning and Platinum for travel-related benefits.
- Quick Comparison: Amex Gold vs Amex Platinum
- Annual Fees for American Express Rewards Credit Cards
- How Each Card Earns Membership Rewards® Points
- Key Cardholder Benefits and Statement Credits
- Who Should Choose the American Express® Gold Card
- Who Should Pick the Platinum Card® from American Express
- Can You Hold Both the Amex Gold and Platinum Cards?
- The Bottom Line
Quick Comparison: Amex Gold vs Amex Platinum
At a high level, the American Express® Gold Card can be described as an elevated everyday credit card with additional perks for those who dine out frequently. Its benefits are narrower in scope but the card also has higher earning potential on everyday spend.
The Platinum Card® from American Express, by contrast, is a full-fledged premium travel card built around airport lounge access, elite-style perks, and a number of statement credits that may help offset the annual fee for cardholders who can use the credits as intended.
Understanding these key differences is essential in making a decision between the two cards.
You will hear from some cardholders that they are ultimately disappointed with the Platinum Card. However, this is not because the card’s benefits are weak, but rather, these benefits do not align with how the cardholder actually travels or spends. Likewise, some frequent travelers underestimate the long-term value of the Gold Card’s everyday earning power.
Here’s a quick overview of the key difference between the two American Express rewards credit cards:
| Feature | American Express® Gold Card | Platinum Card® from American Express |
|---|---|---|
| Card type | Everyday rewards card | Premium travel rewards card |
| Annual fee | $325 | $895 |
| Best for | Dining, groceries, everyday spend | Frequent travelers, premium travel purchases |
| Top earning categories | Restaurants worldwide, U.S. supermarkets | Flights and prepaid hotels booked through AmexTravel.com |
| Statement credits | Uber Cash & Resy (terms apply) | Travel, entertainment, and lifestyle partners |
| Lounge access | Not included | American Express Global Lounge Collection® |
| Travel programs | The Hotel Collection® | Fine Hotels + Resorts®, The Hotel Collection®, International Airline Program |
| Overall positioning | Strong everyday value as an elevated mid-tier rewards card | Premium rewards card for frequent travelers and elevated lifestyle benefits |
| Additional Details | Learn more about the American Express Gold Card | Learn more about the Platinum Card from American Express |
Annual Fees for American Express Rewards Credit Cards
The annual fees that accompany each card are often the first factor people consider when deciding between the two cards. Just as the difference in cardholder benefits is substantial, so are the annual fees. While both fees may be partially offset through statement credits and benefits, doing so requires different spending patterns and travel habits.
American Express® Gold Card Annual Fee
The American Express Gold Card carries an annual fee that sits above what might be considered the average for mid-tier rewards credit cards. The Gold Card’s annual fee has risen over the past few years and for 2026, the annual fee is now $325.
This price point reflects its position as a premium everyday rewards card rather than a luxury travel product. For some cardholders, the annual fee may be easier to justify if the card’s credits and bonus categories match their typical spending.
As a point of comparison, here are the annual fees of some other mid-tier rewards credit cards:
- Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card: $95
- Wells Fargo Autograph Journey℠ Card: $95
- Capital One Venture X Rewards Card: $395
While not $95 a year, the Gold Card’s annual fee still feels approachable because its value proposition does not depend on infrequent or aspirational travel. Instead, it rewards spending categories that most households already prioritize, making it easier to realize ongoing value without changing behavior.
The Platinum Card® from American Express Annual Fee
The Platinum Card from American Express carries one of the highest annual fees among consumer credit cards. This fee reflects the card’s positioning as a premium travel and lifestyle product rather than a general-purpose rewards card.
Like with many cards over the past few years, the Platinum Card’s annual fee has increased a bit. As of 2026, the Platinum Card from American Express carries an annual fee of $895.
While the headline annual fee can be jarring, it is important to view it as a bundled cost for access to lounges, elite status with hotel programs, travel protections, concierge services, and a long list of statement credits.
Cardholders who travel frequently and use the included programs may find meaningful value relative to the annual fee.
Here are a few other premium travel rewards credit cards and their associated annual fees:
- Chase Sapphire Reserve: $795
- Citi Strata Elite℠ Card: $595
- Mastercard® Gold Card™: $1,199
- (Invite Only) The Centurion from American Express: $5,000
So, while not $5,000 or even $1,199 a year, the Platinum Card from American Express is still on the upper end of that list. But, it’s worth clarifying that, if you can take advantage of the card’s benefits, you may be able to offset a significant portion of its annual fee.
American Express Low or No Annual Fee Options
American Express also offers a few low-fee and even no-annual-fee cards that earn Membership Rewards® points or cash back rewards. These cards may be better suited for those not interested in cardholder benefits or statement credits but still want a strong everyday earner in their wallet.
Here are some low or no annual fee consumer credit cards offered by American Express:
- American Express Blue Cash Everyday® Card: $0
- American Express Blue Cash Preferred® Card: $95 ($0 for the first year of membership)
- American Express Green Card®: $150
- Hilton Honors American Express Card: $0
- Delta SkyMiles® Blue American Express Card: $0
In terms of Amex credit cards on that list that earn Membership Rewards points, only the American Express Green Card® earns Membership Rewards. All other cards on that list earn either cash back or points or miles from hotels or airlines.
For cardholders who decide to downgrade from the Gold or Platinum Card in the future, no-fee options allow them to maintain their Membership Rewards balance without incurring an annual cost.
American Express Credit Cards Annual Fee Comparison
| Card | Annual Fee |
|---|---|
| American Express Gold Card | $325 |
| Platinum Card from American Express | $895 |
| American Express Blue Cash Everyday Card | $0 |
| American Express Blue Cash Preferred Card | $95 ($0 for the first year of membership) |
| American Express Green Card | $150 |
How Each Card Earns Membership Rewards® Points
Earning Membership Rewards points with each card is also a core consideration for those deciding between these two cards. Although both the Gold and Platinum Cards earn American Express Membership Rewards points, they reward spending differently – especially in a few standout categories.
Earning Points with the Amex Gold Card
The American Express Gold Card is one of the stronger cards for everyday earning potential within the American Express lineup. It offers elevated earning rates on dining at restaurants worldwide and on grocery purchases at U.S. supermarkets, though both categories have limits on how many bonus points can be earned each year.
For households that spend a significant amount on dining and groceries, these categories can account for a significant portion of their overall monthly expenses. Over time, the Gold Card’s consistent earning structure can generate a large number of Membership Rewards points without requiring complex strategies or travel-focused spending.
Here’s how the American Express® Gold Card earns Membership Rewards points:
| Category | Points per $1 Spent | Bonus Category Conditions | Bonus Category Limits |
|---|---|---|---|
| Restaurants Worldwide | 4x | Bonus earned on the first $50,000 of eligible purchases | |
| U.S. Supermarkets | 4x | "Supermarkets" excludes superstores and wholesale clubs among others | Bonus earned on the first $25,000 of eligible purchases |
| Airfare | 3x | Must be booked through AmexTravel | |
| Prepaid Travel | 2x | Includes prepaid hotels, car rentals, and cruise bookings booked through AmexTravel | |
| All Other Purchases | 1x |
Earning Points with the Amex Platinum Card
The Platinum Card’s earning structure is a bit more narrow. It offers very strong earning rates on flights booked directly with airlines or through American Express Travel®, as well as on prepaid hotels booked through the Amex Travel portal.
Outside of travel-related purchases, the Platinum Card will earn points at a base rate. So, unless your spending includes a lot of travel-related expenses, you will typically earn just 1 Membership Rewards point per 1 dollar spent.
Here’s a breakdown of how the Platinum Card® from American Express earns membership rewards points:
| Category | Points per $1 Spent | Bonus Category Conditions | Bonus Category Limits |
|---|---|---|---|
| Airfare | 5x | Flights must be purchased directly from airlines or booked through American Express Travel. | Bonus earned on the first $500,000 in a calendar year |
| Prepaid Hotels | 5x | Hotels must be booked and prepaid in advance through AmexTravel.com. | |
| All Other Purchases | 1x |
For many households, the Gold Card may earn more points on everyday spending, while the Platinum Card may earn more on eligible travel purchases.
Key Cardholder Benefits and Statement Credits
Cardholder benefits – including statement credits – play a major role in determining whether either card is worth its annual fee. However, not all benefits and statement credits will fit an individual’s lifestyle or spending habits.
Let’s take a closer look at each card to understand better these cardholder benefits and the potential value you can get from each card.
Amex Gold Card Benefits and Statement Credits
The Amex Gold Card offers a few statement credits tied primarily to dining and food-related purchases. These credits are typically distributed monthly and can help to offset the annual fee if used consistently.
Because the credits align with categories that many cardholders already spend in, they are relatively easy to use without changing habits. This simplicity is one of the Gold Card’s strongest attributes.
Here is a list of the statement credits offered to American Express Gold Card holders:
| Statement Credit | Statement Credit Terms & Conditions |
|---|---|
| $120 Annual Dining Credit at Select Restaurants and Retailers | Up to $120 in statement credits per calendar year, issued in monthly increments of up to $10, for eligible purchases at select dining and food-related partners including but not limited to Goldbelly, GrubHub, and The Cheeecake Factory. Enrollment is required, and participating merchants and terms are subject to change. |
| $84 Dunkin' Credit Annually | Up to $84 in statement credits per calendar year, issued in monthly increments of up to $7, for eligible purchases at participating Dunkin’ locations in the United States when using the American Express Gold Card. Enrollment required. |
| $120 Uber Cash Annually | Up to $120 in Uber Cash per calendar year, provided as monthly Uber Cash deposits, for eligible Uber rides or Uber Eats orders in the United States. The American Express Gold Card must be added to the cardholder’s Uber account, and enrollment is required. |
| $100 Resy Credit Annually | Up to $100 in statement credits per calendar year, issued in semiannual increments, for eligible dining purchases made at participating restaurants booked through Resy when using the American Express Gold Card. Enrollment is required, and terms apply. |
In terms of additional benefits beyond these statement credits, the American Express Gold Card also offers cardholders the following:
| Cardholder Benefit | Benefit Terms & Conditions |
|---|---|
| $100 Hotel Collection property credit | When booking a prepaid stay of two consecutive nights or more at a participating Hotel Collection property through AmexTravel.com using the American Express Gold Card, cardholders may be eligible for an on-property credit of up to $100. Benefits vary by property and are subject to availability and terms. |
| Baggage insurance plan | Baggage insurance that may provide reimbursement for eligible lost, damaged, or stolen carry-on and checked baggage when a covered trip is paid for in full with the American Express Gold Card. Coverage limits apply per person, and benefits are subject to policy terms, conditions, and exclusions. |
| Secondary car rental loss & damage insurance | Secondary car rental loss and damage insurance that may provide coverage for eligible damage or theft of a rental vehicle when the rental is paid for with the American Express Gold Card and the rental company’s collision damage waiver is declined. Coverage limits, geographic restrictions, and exclusions apply. |
| Trip delay insurance | Trip delay insurance that may provide reimbursement for eligible expenses when a covered trip is delayed beyond the minimum required time (12 hours). Coverage limits, claim caps, and eligibility requirements apply, and benefits are subject to policy terms and exclusions. |
Amex Platinum Card Benefits and Statement Credits
The Platinum Card comes with a robust portfolio of cardholder benefits including statement credits that span travel, entertainment, retail, and lifestyle services. When combined – on paper – these credits may exceed the card’s annual fee.
Keep in mind that, in practice, maximizing these credits requires some attention and strategic planning. Some credits reset monthly, others quarterly, or even annually, and many apply only to specific merchants through specific websites or booking channels.
Cardholders who actively track and use these benefits can extract substantial value, while others may leave credits unused.
Here’s the full list of statement credits offered by the Platinum Card from American Express:
| Statement Credit | Statement Credit Terms & Conditions |
|---|---|
| $200 Uber Cash Annually | Up to $200 in Uber Cash annually, provided as monthly Uber Cash deposits, for eligible Uber rides and Uber Eats orders in the U.S. Enrollment is required, and the Platinum Card must be added to the cardholder’s Uber account. |
| Up to $120 Uber One Credit Annually | Up to $120 in statement credits annually for an eligible Uber One membership when billed monthly to the Platinum Card. Credits apply to auto-renewing memberships only. Enrollment required. |
| Up to $300 Entertainment Credit Annually | Receive up to $300 a year or $25 each month when you use your Platinum Card for purchases with select streaming and news services including Disney+, Hulu, ESPN+, The New York Times, and others. Enrollment required. |
| Up to $400 in Resy Credit Annually | Up to $400 in statement credits per calendar year, issued in quarterly increments, for eligible purchases at participating restaurants booked through Resy when using the Platinum Card. Enrollment and linking the card to a Resy account are required. |
| Up to $600 in Statement Credits with Fine Hotels + Resorts Annually | Up to $600 in statement credits per calendar year for eligible prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts or Hotel Collection bookings made through AmexTravel.com using the Platinum Card. Credits are issued in two semiannual periods and apply only to qualifying bookings. |
| Up to $200 Annual Statement Credits for Airline Incidental Fees | Up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year for eligible incidental fees charged by a selected airline. Airline selection is required, and credits apply only to qualifying incidental charges, not airfare. |
| $209 CLEAR+ Credit for Annual Membership Annually | Statement credit for the cost of an annual CLEAR+ membership, up to the stated amount, when charged to the Platinum Card. Enrollment is required, and membership eligibility is subject to CLEAR’s terms. |
| $300 Lululemon Statement Credits Annually | Up to $300 in statement credits per calendar year, issued in quarterly increments, for eligible purchases at Lululemon when using the Platinum Card. Enrollment is required, and exclusions may apply. |
| $100 Saks Fifth Avenue Statement Credits Annually | Up to $100 in statement credits per calendar year, issued in semiannual increments, for eligible purchases at Saks Fifth Avenue when using the Platinum Card. Enrollment required. |
| $200 ŌURA Ring Statement Credits Annually | Up to $200 in statement credits annually for eligible purchases of an ŌURA Ring or qualifying membership when charged to the Platinum Card. Enrollment required. |
| Up to $120 in Statement Credits for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck Every 4 Years | Statement credit for the application fee for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck, up to the stated amount, once every four years when charged to the Platinum Card. Approval is subject to government background checks and program eligibility. |
Of course, we couldn’t discuss the Platinum Card without bringing up the cardholder benefits that have made the card a staple in many wallets.
The Platinum Card is well-known for its travel-related benefits including lounge access and elite status with select hotels and car rental companies. There are also additional travel and lifestyle benefits that some cardholders leave unused but that can yield significant value.
Here’s the list of benefits offered by the Platinum Card:
| Cardholder Benefit | Benefit Terms & Conditions |
|---|---|
| Access to the American Express Global Lounge Collection® | Access to the American Express Global Lounge Collection, which includes Centurion Lounges, Escape Lounges, select Lufthansa Lounges when traveling on eligible Lufthansa Group flights, Delta Sky Clubs (visit limits apply), and Priority Pass Select lounges. Enrollment is required for some lounge programs, and access policies vary by lounge network, location, and travel itinerary. |
| Fine Hotels + Resorts® Benefits | When booking eligible stays through Fine Hotels + Resorts on AmexTravel.com using your Platinum Card, cardholders may receive benefits such as room upgrades when available, daily breakfast for two, guaranteed 4:00 p.m. late check-out, noon check-in when available, complimentary Wi-Fi, and a property-specific amenity or credit valued at up to $100. Benefits vary by property and are subject to availability. |
| The Hotel Collection Benefits | When booking a prepaid stay of two consecutive nights or more at a participating Hotel Collection property through AmexTravel.com using your Platinum Card, cardholders may be eligible for a room upgrade when available and an on-property credit of up to $100. Benefits vary by property and availability. |
| Complimentary Elite Status with Select Hotel Programs | Eligible Platinum Card cardholders may enroll to receive complimentary elite status with select hotel loyalty programs, including Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elite, Hilton Honors Gold, and Leaders Club status with Leading Hotels of the World. Enrollment is required, and benefits vary by program and property. |
| Complimentary Elite Status with Select Car Rental Companies | Eligible Platinum Card cardholders may enroll to receive complimentary elite status with select car rental loyalty programs, including National Emerald Club, Hertz President’s Circle, and Avis Preferred Plus. Enrollment is required, and benefits vary by provider and location. |
| International Airline Program Benefits and Exclusive Fares | Access the International Airline Program, which may offer reduced fares on select premium cabin tickets with participating airlines when booking through AmexTravel.com using your Platinum Card. Eligible fares, airlines, routes, and cabin classes vary, and availability is limited. |
| Cruise Privileges Program | Platinum Card Members may be eligible for select benefits on qualifying cruise bookings of five nights or more with participating cruise lines when booked through American Express Travel using the Platinum Card. Benefits may include up to $300 in onboard credit per stateroom and a cruise line–specific amenity. |
| Cell Phone Protection | Cell phone protection that may provide reimbursement of up to $800 per claim for eligible damage or theft, with a maximum of two claims per 12-month period, when the eligible cell phone bill is paid with the Platinum Card. A deductible applies, and coverage is subject to terms, conditions, and exclusions. |
| Travel and Trip Delay Coverage | Click here to learn more about the travel insurance offered to Platinum Card holders |
Amex Gold vs. Amex Platinum: Breakdown of Cardholder Benefits
| Feature | American Express® Gold Card | Platinum Card® from American Express |
|---|---|---|
| Airport lounge access | Not included | American Express Global Lounge Collection® |
| Hotel benefits | Hotel Collection credit on eligible stays | Fine Hotels + Resorts® and The Hotel Collection® benefits on eligible stays |
| Airline programs | Not included | International Airline Program and "Insider Fares" on AmexTravel.com |
| Elite hotel status | Not included | Complimentary status with Hilton, Marriott, and Leading Hotels of The World (enrollment required) |
| Rental car elite status | Not included | Complimentary status with Avis, Hertz, and National (enrollment required) |
| Travel protections | Baggage, trip delay (terms apply) | Broader travel protections and insurance. See program details. |
| Cell phone protection | Not included | Cell phone protection included but terms, conditions, and deductibles apply |
| Cruise benefits | Not included | Cruise Privileges Program |
Who Should Choose the American Express® Gold Card
The American Express® Gold Card is an excellent fit for cardholders who want strong rewards on everyday purchases without committing to a high annual fee. It is particularly well suited for those who spend heavily on dining and groceries and value simplicity over perks.
In many ways, the Gold Card is often viewed as a great introduction into the American Express cardholder ecosystem. For example, some cardholders may be targeted for upgrade offers over time, though offers vary and are not guaranteed.
This card also makes sense for travelers who take a few trips per year but do not rely on airport lounges or care all that much for elite status-style perks. It is also a strong choice for households looking to earn Membership Rewards points consistently without managing a long list of statement credits.
 $325 annual fee
|
Up to 100,000 Bonus Points:
You may be eligible for an elevated American Express welcome offer. Select new applicants can receive a welcome offer of up to 100,000 bonus Membership Rewards® points with the American Express® Gold Card after spending $6,000 in the first 6 months of opening an account. |
Overall: The American Express® Gold Card
| Category | Summary |
|---|---|
| Card positioning | Elevated everyday rewards card |
| Ideal fit for | Frequent diners, high grocery spenders |
| Strengths | Higher earning rates in major categories |
| Limitations | Limited perks and additional benefits |
| Annual fee | $325 |
| Best use cases | Primary card for everyday purchases |
| Traveler profile | Occasional traveler |
| Benefit complexity level | Fairly low, benefits and statement credits are straightforward |
Related: American Express Gold Card Showing Referral Bonus of Up to 100,000 Membership Rewards Points
Who Should Pick the Platinum Card® from American Express
The Platinum Card® from American Express is best suited for frequent travelers who value premium experiences and are able to utilize most if not all of the card’s benefits. This includes travelers who fly regularly, use airport lounges, book higher-end hotels, and can take advantage of programs like American Express Fine Hotels + Resorts® or the International Airline Program.
One key distinction to make is that this card might still not make that much sense for those who travel often but seek out cost-conscious options like basic economy tickets or budget hotels.
Cost-conscious travelers are less likely to take advantage of cardholder benefits like discounted premium cabin airfare on select airlines, elite status at Marriott and Hilton, or statement credits at Fine Hotels + Resorts properties.
Cardholders who already book premium travel accommodations and that are willing to actively track statement credits are most likely able to justify the Platinum Card’s annual fee. For these users, the card can deliver outsized value and a noticeably elevated travel experience.
 $895 annual fee
|
Up to 175,000 Bonus Points:
You may be eligible for an elevated American Express welcome offer. Select new applicants can receive a welcome offer of up to 175,000 bonus Membership Rewards® points with the Platinum Card® from American Express after spending $8,000 in the first 6 months of opening an account. |
Overall: The Platinum Card® from American Express
| Category | Summary |
|---|---|
| Card positioning | Premium travel and lifestyle rewards |
| Ideal fit for | Frequent travelers who value elevated benefits |
| Strengths | Numerous perks and benefits like lounge access and elite status with hotel prorams |
| Limitations | High annual fee |
| Annual fee | $895 |
| Best use cases | Travel bookings and premium experiences |
| Traveler profile | Frequent traveler |
| Benefit complexity level | High - benefits require tracking and enrollment |
Can You Hold Both the Amex Gold and Platinum Cards?
Yes, you can hold both the American Express® Gold Card and the Platinum Card®. Some cardholders choose to carry both as those that hold both cards will often use the Gold Card to earn bonus points at supermarkets and restaurants while using the Platinum Card on travel-related expenses and to take advantage of the card’s long list of benefits.
It’s important to point out that, this dual-card strategy is not for everyone, but for those who can justify both annual fees, it can create a well-rounded Membership Rewards earning and benefits ecosystem.
More from TravelUpdate: Review of American Airlines New Airbus A321XLR in Flagship Business
The Bottom Line
At the end of the day, the American Express® Gold Card and the Platinum Card® from American Express are both strong rewards credit cards. But, they are designed for very different types of cardholders.
The Gold Card stands out as a high-value everyday card, offering excellent earning potential on dining and grocery purchases along with a handful of easy-to-use benefits that can help offset its annual fee without much effort.
On other hand, the Platinum Card is a truly premium travel rewards card built around airport lounge access, luxury travel programs, and a long list of statement credits. For frequent travelers who already book higher-end airfare and hotels and are willing to actively use the card’s benefits, the Platinum Card can deliver substantial value and a noticeably elevated travel experience.
Rather than there being a clear winner, the right choice ultimately comes down to how you spend and how you travel. If you want a powerful everyday earner with straightforward value, the Amex Gold Card is likely the better fit.
If premium travel benefits, lounge access, and luxury programs align with your lifestyle, the Platinum Card from American Express may make more sense — provided you can fully take advantage of what it offers.
What is your preferred American Express card? How do you prefer to earn Membership Rewards points?
Featured Offers in this Post
$325 annual fee
|
Up to 100,000 Bonus Points:
You may be eligible for an elevated American Express welcome offer. Select new applicants can receive a welcome offer of up to 100,000 bonus Membership Rewards® points with the American Express® Gold Card after spending $6,000 in the first 6 months of opening an account. |
$895 annual fee
|
Up to 175,000 Bonus Points:
You may be eligible for an elevated American Express welcome offer. Select new applicants can receive a welcome offer of up to 175,000 bonus Membership Rewards® points with the Platinum Card® from American Express after spending $8,000 in the first 6 months of opening an account. |
