American Express stands as one of the most renowned creators of credit cards. When thoughts turn to American Express, often known simply as Amex, it’s probable that images of upscale charge cards and bountiful rewards come to mind.
The most exceptional American Express cards have the potential to amass numerous dollars in rewards annually or attain luxurious benefits such as exclusive lounge entry and valuable credits. Our analysis encompassed the array of options from this provider to assist you in locating the supreme Amex card to align with your distinct expenditure requisites.
It’s advisable to contrast these cards with those featured in our compilations of premier credit cards. This allows for a perspective beyond the confines of this specific card compilation. Although Amex presents an extensive selection of credit cards, it’s important to note that the cards listed below might not invariably stand as paragons of excellence in the market or be the ideal fit for your spending tendencies and inclinations.
American Express® Gold Card
The American Express® Gold Card is a perfect choice for those who love both food and travel, offering substantial rewards for dining and flying. The card’s features, including Uber Cash and dining credits, can effectively offset the $250 annual fee, making it a worthwhile investment.
With a $250 annual fee, the American Express® Gold Card provides exceptional value. You can earn 4 Membership Rewards points per $1 spent at restaurants, takeout, and delivery in the U.S. Additionally, you’ll get 4 points per $1 at U.S. supermarkets (up to $25,000 per year), 3 points per $1 on flights booked directly with airlines, and 1 point per $1 on other purchases.
Say goodbye to foreign transaction fees with this card. It offers various perks like up to $120 in Uber Cash and dining credits, monthly statement credits at popular eateries, and a $100 experience credit for eligible hotel stays. Travel insurance coverage, baggage insurance, and access to Amex Offers further enhance its value.
The Platinum Card® from American Express
For those who crave luxurious travel experiences and access to exclusive airport lounges, The Platinum Card® from American Express is a standout choice, despite its substantial $695 annual fee. This card is tailor-made for individuals who appreciate premium perks and are willing to maximize its various credits.
With an annual fee of $695, this card offers unmatched benefits. You can earn 5 Membership Rewards points per $1 spent on flights with airlines or through Amex Travel (up to $500,000 per year), 5 points per $1 on prepaid hotels booked through Amex Travel, and 1 point per $1 on other purchases.
No foreign transaction fees add to the card’s appeal. While it provides an array of valuable credits, not all are applicable to everyone, and some require enrollment. The standout feature is the lounge access it offers, setting it apart from other cards.
American Express® Green Card
The American Express® Green Card caters to travelers seeking premium perks without the hefty price tag. At a reasonable $150 annual fee, you can enjoy statement credits for CLEAR® and LoungeBuddy, making it an attractive option for those who value upscale travel benefits.
With a $150 annual fee, this card offers competitive rewards. You can earn 3 points per $1 at restaurants and on various travel expenses, including flights, hotels, and ridesharing services. All other purchases earn 1 point per $1.
Foreign transaction fees are not part of the equation. The card presents an enticing package, including credits for LoungeBuddy and CLEAR®, as well as car rental coverage, trip delay insurance, and purchase protection. However, if you desire more exclusive perks, a higher-tier card might be more suitable.
Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express
The Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express is a go-to choice for families looking to save on groceries and gas. Its $95 annual fee is balanced by substantial cash-back rewards in these categories and appealing credits, though foreign transaction fees might be a downside for international travelers.
With an introductory $0 annual fee for the first year and $95 thereafter, the card’s rewards are compelling. You can earn 6% cash back at U.S. supermarkets (up to $6,000 per year), 6% on select U.S. streaming subscriptions, 3% at U.S. gas stations and on transit, and 1% on other purchases.
Foreign transaction fees are set at 2.7%. Additional perks include monthly credits for Disney streaming, Equinox+ membership statement credits, and car rental loss and damage coverage. However, international travelers might find better options due to the foreign transaction fees.
Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express
The Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express is designed for those seeking rewards without an annual fee. With elevated rewards at U.S. supermarkets, gas stations, and online spending, it’s a great choice for budget-conscious shoppers.
Boasting a $0 annual fee, the card’s rewards stand out. Earn 3% cash back at U.S. supermarkets and gas stations, as well as online retail purchases (up to $6,000 per category per year), and 1% on other purchases.
Foreign transaction fees are 2.7%. Beyond rewards, the card offers monthly statement credits for the Disney streaming bundle, an Equinox+ membership credit, and car rental coverage. However, if your U.S. supermarket spending is substantial, the Preferred version might offer better returns despite its annual fee.
American Express Cash Magnet® Card
For those seeking straightforward cash back, the American Express Cash Magnet® Card is a solid choice. With no annual fee, it offers a simple 1.5% cash back on all purchases, along with some additional benefits.
With a $0 annual fee, this card provides easy rewards. You can earn a flat 1.5% cash back on all your purchases.
Foreign transaction fees stand at 2.7%. While the card grants access to Amex Offers and provides rental car coverage and a Global Assist hotline, there are other cards with more competitive rewards available.
Amex EveryDay® Credit Card
The Amex EveryDay® Credit Card, with no annual fee, offers an opportunity to earn valuable Membership Rewards Points. Its 20% points bonus for using the card 20 or more times a month adds an extra layer of value for frequent users.
With a $0 annual fee, this card is a rewards gem. You can earn 2 Membership Rewards points per $1 at U.S. supermarkets (up to $6,000 per year), 2 points per $1 on American Express Travel, and 1 point per $1 on other purchases. The 20% extra points boost for 20 or more transactions in a billing period is a unique feature.
Foreign transaction fees are set at 2.7%. The card’s value lies in its transferable points, though there are cards with higher earning rates for supermarket spending.
Amex EveryDay® Preferred Credit Card
Frequent card users who rely on their card for various purchases will appreciate the Amex EveryDay® Preferred Credit Card. With a $95 annual fee, it offers elevated rewards, particularly for supermarket shopping and select travel purchases.
At an annual fee of $95, this card rewards heavy usage. Earn 3 points per $1 at U.S. supermarkets (up to $6,000 per year), 2 points per $1 at U.S. gas stations and for travel purchases through AmexTravel.com, and 1 point per $1 on other eligible purchases.
Foreign transaction fees are 2.7%. The 50% bonus points for using the card 30 times a month stands as a major highlight. Although the Blue Cash Preferred might offer better value for U.S. supermarket spending, the Amex EveryDay® Preferred Card provides exceptional earning potential.
Should you consider acquiring an American Express credit card?
American Express boasts an extensive array of exceptional credit card choices, all accompanied by top-tier customer service. There are options suitable for every preference, whether you prioritize cash back or travel rewards. An often overlooked advantage of American Express is its online platform, which stands out as the best in class for managing your expenditures, payments, perks, and incentives. The convenience of engaging in live chats with representatives can also prove invaluable. Furthermore, a few American Express cards come without a predefined credit limit, offering valuable flexibility, advises Zac Hood, a travel rewards expert and the founder of TravelFreely.com.
American Express presents a diverse range of credit cards, spanning from luxurious premium travel cards to fundamental cash-back selections. There’s a strong probability of discovering a card that aligns with your requirements. For those aspiring to accumulate Membership Rewards, possessing an American Express card is the sole avenue to achieve this. In the realm of cash-back cards, Amex stands among several issuers providing cash-back benefits, prompting you to carefully contrast our finest cash-back card options. This enables you to determine whether an American Express card or one from an alternative issuer better suits your needs.
On the whole, American Express cards necessitate a minimum of good credit for eligibility, a factor worthy of consideration. Their global acceptance is marginally less widespread compared to other cards. Nevertheless, the company is renowned for delivering robust customer assistance, securing the top spot in customer contentment for the last three consecutive years, as highlighted in the 2022 J.D. Power U.S. Credit Card Satisfaction Study.
