Chase Sapphire Preferred vs. Amex Gold: Which Card Suits You Best?
For many travelers, the hefty annual fees associated with ultra-premium credit cards like the Chase Sapphire Reserve® and The Platinum Card® from American Express can be a tough sell. If you don’t travel frequently enough to take full advantage of their extensive perks and credits, these cards may not be worth the investment.
Fortunately, both Chase and American Express offer excellent mid-tier alternatives: the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card and the American Express® Gold Card. These cards serve as sister products to their luxury counterparts, but they come with distinct features that may cater to different travel styles and preferences. In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll help you determine which card might be the better fit for you—or if you should consider adding both to your wallet.
Key Features at a Glance
Both cards present a variety of benefits, but understanding their key features can help you make an informed choice. Here’s a quick overview of what each card offers:
– Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card:
– Annual Fee: $95
– Welcome Bonus: 75,000 points after spending $5,000 in the first three months.
– Points Value: Estimated at 2.05 cents each, making the welcome bonus worth approximately $1,538.
– Benefits: $50 annual hotel credit, 10% points bonus on your anniversary, complimentary DoorDash DashPass membership, and various travel protections.
– American Express® Gold Card:
– Annual Fee: $250
– Welcome Bonus: Up to 100,000 points after spending $6,000 in the first six months.
– Points Value: Estimated at 2 cents each, making the welcome bonus worth up to $2,000.
– Benefits: Monthly dining credits, travel protections, and higher earning rates on specific categories.
Welcome Bonuses: Who Comes Out on Top?
The welcome bonuses for both cards are enticing, but the Amex Gold takes the lead in potential value. With the Sapphire Preferred, you can earn 75,000 bonus points after meeting the spending requirement. Based on valuations from TPG, this bonus could be worth around $1,538.
In contrast, the Amex Gold offers a welcome bonus of up to 100,000 points, which could be valued at approximately $2,000. This makes the Amex Gold the clear winner when it comes to initial rewards.
Annual Fees and Perks
The Sapphire Preferred has a lower annual fee of $95 compared to the Amex Gold’s $250. However, the Amex Gold provides a range of benefits that can outweigh its higher fee. Cardholders can enjoy monthly dining credits, which can significantly enhance the card’s overall value.
The Sapphire Preferred, while offering fewer perks, still provides solid benefits such as a $50 annual hotel credit for bookings made through Chase Travel, a 10% points bonus on your cardholder anniversary, and a complimentary DoorDash DashPass membership.
Earning Potential: Which Card Rewards You More?
When it comes to earning points, both cards have their strengths. The Sapphire Preferred features bonus categories that allow you to earn 2 points per dollar on travel and dining, and 1 point on all other purchases. This is beneficial for those who spend broadly across various categories.
On the other hand, the Amex Gold shines with its earning structure, offering 4 points per dollar at restaurants worldwide and U.S. supermarkets, along with 3 points on flights booked directly with airlines. According to TPG’s valuations, this translates to an impressive 8% return on dining and grocery purchases, making it one of the best cards for foodies and frequent grocery shoppers.
Transferable Points: Flexibility in Redemption
Both the Sapphire Preferred and Amex Gold earn transferable points, which can be a significant advantage for travelers looking to maximize their rewards. The Sapphire Preferred earns Ultimate Rewards points, which can be redeemed for travel through Chase Travel or transferred to various airline and hotel partners. This flexibility allows cardholders to find the best value for their points.
Similarly, the Amex Gold earns Membership Rewards points, which can also be transferred to numerous travel partners. However, the redemption rates for travel through AmexTravel.com may not be as favorable as those offered by Chase.
Conclusion: Which Card is Right for You?
Choosing between the Chase Sapphire Preferred and the American Express Gold Card ultimately depends on your spending habits and travel preferences. If you spend heavily on groceries and dining, the Amex Gold is likely the better option due to its higher earning rates and valuable monthly credits. Conversely, if you prefer a lower annual fee and a more generalized rewards structure, the Sapphire Preferred may be the card for you.
Both cards are among the most valuable mid-tier options available, providing excellent rewards and benefits in the right hands. You don’t necessarily have to choose one over the other; many savvy travelers find that having both cards can create a well-rounded points strategy that maximizes their rewards potential.
To explore more about these cards, consider reading our full reviews of the Chase Sapphire Preferred and the American Express Gold Card. Whether you’re planning your next getaway or simply looking to enhance your everyday spending, these cards can help you achieve your travel goals.
