Introduction to American Express Platinum Cards and Gold Cards
The American Express Platinum card and American Express Gold card are two of the most sought-after credit cards in 2025. Both are packed with premium features but serve slightly different types of spenders.
If you’re confused about which card is the right one for you, don’t worry. This guide will break down each card’s perks, drawbacks, fees, and more in simple language to help you make the best financial decision.
Key Differences at a Glance
Let’s kick things off with a quick comparison table:
Feature | Amex Platinum Card | Amex Gold Card |
---|---|---|
Annual Fee | $695 | $250 |
Welcome Bonus | 100,000 points (after $6,000 spend) | 60,000 points (after $4,000 spend) |
Lounge Access | Yes (Centurion + Priority Pass) | No |
Dining Rewards | 1x | 4x at restaurants, 4x at U.S. supermarkets |
Travel Rewards | 5x on flights & hotels booked via Amex | 3x on flights |
Statement Credits | Up to $1,500 total | Up to $480 |
Annual Fees Compared
The Amex Platinum card comes with a whopping $695 annual fee, while the Gold card charges $250. That’s a big difference—but the Platinum card also offers a load of credits and travel perks to justify the price.
If you travel often and take advantage of things like airline credits, Uber Cash, and Fine Hotels & Resorts, you might end up saving more than the annual fee. But if your spending is more focused on groceries and dining, the Gold card provides a better ROI for a lower cost.
Welcome Bonuses
In 2025, both cards offer compelling welcome bonuses:
- Platinum: 100,000 Membership Rewards points after spending $6,000 in the first 6 months.
- Gold: 60,000 points after spending $4,000 in the first 6 months.
If you’re a frequent spender, the Platinum card gives you more bang for your buck—but the Gold card makes it easier to qualify for the bonus.
Rewards Structure
Understanding how you earn points is key. Here’s how it breaks down:
Amex Platinum:
- 5x points on flights booked directly with airlines or Amex Travel
- 5x points on prepaid hotels booked via Amex Travel
- 1x point on other purchases
Amex Gold:
- 4x points at restaurants, including takeout and delivery in the U.S.
- 4x points at U.S. supermarkets (up to $25,000 per year)
- 3x points on flights
- 1x point on other purchases
So, for day-to-day use, the Gold card is much stronger for most people.
Travel Benefits Showdown
Lounge Access & Travel Credits
This is where the Platinum card shines. You’ll get:
- Access to over 1,400 airport lounges worldwide (Centurion, Priority Pass, Delta Sky Clubs)
- $200 airline fee credit
- $200 Uber Cash
- $189 CLEAR® Plus credit
The Gold card doesn’t include any of these perks. If you travel a lot, Platinum is the clear winner.
Hotel & Airline Perks
With the Platinum card, you can enjoy:
- Complimentary upgrades at Fine Hotels + Resorts
- Late check-out, room credits, and breakfast for two
- Marriott Bonvoy Gold and Hilton Honors Gold status
The Gold card, unfortunately, doesn’t offer premium hotel perks.
Everyday Spending Advantages
Dining, Groceries, and Retail
The Gold card is ideal for food lovers and grocery shoppers. Here’s why:
- Earn 4x points at restaurants worldwide
- Earn 4x points at U.S. supermarkets (up to $25,000/year)
- Enjoy $120 dining credit at participating restaurants (Grubhub, Cheesecake Factory, etc.)
The Platinum card only earns 1x on groceries and dining, so the Gold is clearly better for everyday purchases.
Protection & Insurance Benefits
Both cards offer strong protections, but the Platinum card includes:
- Trip cancellation/interruption insurance
- Cell phone protection
- Premium car rental insurance
- Global Assist® Hotline
The Gold card offers fewer protections but still includes extended warranties and purchase protection.
Who Should Get the Amex Platinum Card?
Choose the Platinum card if:
- You travel frequently—especially by air
- Lounge access is important to you
- You stay at luxury hotels often
- You use Uber, CLEAR®, and other travel credits
This card is built for the premium traveler.
Who Should Choose the Amex Gold Card?
The Gold card is best for:
- Foodies and families who dine out or shop for groceries
- Those looking for high rewards on everyday spending
- People who want a strong card without the high annual fee
This card fits the average spender’s lifestyle much better.
Real User Experiences and Reviews
Many cardholders say the Platinum card pays for itself if used wisely, especially if you’re hitting the lounge regularly and stacking the travel credits.
On the other hand, users love the Gold card’s 4x points on food and groceries. It feels like a “daily driver” card that constantly earns solid rewards without overwhelming fees.
External review source:
The Points Guy – Amex Card Comparisons
FAQs: Everything You Need to Know
Q1. Can I have both the Platinum and Gold cards?
A. Yes, many users carry both to maximize rewards—Platinum for travel, Gold for daily use.
Q2. Do both cards offer Membership Rewards points?
A. Yes, both cards earn American Express Membership Rewards® points, which can be transferred to travel partners.
Q3. Is the Platinum card worth $695?
A. It depends on usage. If you fully utilize the travel credits and perks, yes—it can be worth over $1,500 in value annually.
Q4. Does the Gold card offer lounge access?
A. No, lounge access is exclusive to the Platinum card.
Q5. Which card is better for beginners?
A. The Gold card is better for new cardholders due to its lower fee and high daily rewards.
Q6. Can I upgrade from Gold to Platinum later?
A. Yes, Amex may allow you to upgrade and even offer a bonus to switch.