In the world of credit cards, American Express stands as a titan, offering a wide array of consumer credit cards to cater to various financial needs and lifestyles. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into eight American Express consumer credit cards, focusing on their unique features and benefits. Whether you’re looking for cash-back rewards, travel perks, or something else entirely, we’ve got you covered. So, let’s dive in and explore the top American Express credit cards designed to suit different preferences and lifestyles.
American Express Credit Cards Overview
Before we get into the specifics of each card, let’s set some ground rules. In this guide, we won’t be discussing American Express business cards, co-branded cards like Delta and Hilton, or cards issued by other banks under the American Express name. We’re strictly focusing on consumer credit cards offered directly by American Express.
One exciting feature introduced by American Express is the “Apply with Confidence” feature. When you apply for one of their cards, you’ll receive an initial indication of whether you’re likely to get approved. If you’re not likely to get approved, you can avoid a hard inquiry on your credit report. This feature helps you protect your credit score while applying for an American Express card.
Now, let’s explore the top American Express credit cards, starting with the best overall card for most consumers.
1. Blue Cash Everyday Card
Annual Fee: None
Cash Back Rewards:
- 3% cash back at U.S. supermarkets
- 3% cash back at U.S. gas stations
- 3% cash back at U.S. online retailers
- 1% cash back on all other purchases
The Blue Cash Everyday Card is an excellent choice for those who prefer simplicity and cash back rewards. It offers generous cash back on everyday purchases, with a 3% cash back rate on U.S. supermarkets, gas stations, and online retailers (up to $6,000 per year in each category). Any additional spending earns 1% cash back. Keep in mind that cash back is redeemed as a statement credit, reducing your card balance.
As of the time of writing, new cardholders can enjoy a $200 bonus after spending $2,000 with the card within the first six months. This makes the Blue Cash Everyday Card an attractive option for those looking for cash back rewards without an annual fee.
2. American Express Gold Card
Annual Fee: $250
Membership Rewards Points:
- 4 points per dollar on restaurant purchases
- 4 points per dollar at U.S. supermarkets (up to $25,000 per year)
- 3 points per dollar on flights (directly with airlines or through Amex Travel)
- 1 point per dollar on all other purchases
The American Express Gold Card is your gateway to the Membership Rewards program. While it comes with a $250 annual fee, the rewards and benefits can make it worthwhile for the right user. With a strong focus on dining and groceries, this card offers 4 points per dollar on restaurant purchases and U.S. supermarket spending (up to $25,000 per year). Additionally, you’ll earn 3 points per dollar on eligible flights and 1 point per dollar on all other purchases.
New cardholders can often take advantage of a generous welcome bonus, such as 60,000 points after spending $4,000 within the first six months. What sets this card apart are the dining and travel credits, including a monthly dining credit and an Uber credit, which can substantially offset the annual fee.
3. Blue Cash Preferred Card
Annual Fee: $95 (waived for the first year)
Cash Back Rewards:
- 6% cash back at U.S. supermarkets (up to $6,000 per year)
- 3% cash back at U.S. gas stations
- 3% cash back on transit purchases
- 6% cash back on U.S. streaming services
- 1% cash back on all other purchases
The Blue Cash Preferred Card is ideal for those who spend heavily on groceries and streaming services. With a 6% cash back rate at U.S. supermarkets (up to $6,000 per year) and 6% cash back on streaming services, this card offers significant cash back potential. It also provides 3% cash back at U.S. gas stations and on transit purchases. The annual fee, while $95, is waived for the first year.
New cardholders may receive a welcome bonus of $250 in the form of a statement credit after spending $3,000 within the first six months. If you’re a frequent supermarket shopper and streamer, this card can help you maximize your cash back rewards.
4. American Express Platinum Card
Annual Fee: $695
Membership Rewards Points:
- 5 points per dollar on flights (directly with airlines or through Amex Travel)
- 5 points per dollar on prepaid hotels (booked through Amex Travel)
- 1 point per dollar on all other purchases
The American Express Platinum Card is a premium card with a substantial annual fee but offers a range of travel benefits and perks. It shines with 5 points per dollar on eligible flights and prepaid hotels when booked through Amex Travel. However, it provides only 1 point per dollar on all other purchases.
New cardholders may be eligible for various welcome bonuses, often ranging from 80,000 points or more after meeting a minimum spending requirement. The card’s value comes from its extensive list of benefits, including access to airport lounges, airline credits, hotel credits, TSA PreCheck or Global Entry fee credits, and more. For travelers who can take full advantage of these benefits, the Platinum Card is a powerful choice. And you can also take information about Destiny Credit Card. It is a helpful information and a complete guide.
5. American Express Everyday Preferred Card
Annual Fee: $95
Membership Rewards Points:
- 3 points per dollar on U.S. supermarket purchases (up to $6,000 per year)
- 2 points per dollar at U.S. gas stations
- 1 point per dollar on all other purchases
The American Express Everyday Preferred Card offers a flexible earning structure, but it requires a bit of effort to maximize its rewards. By using the card at least 30 times within a billing cycle, you’ll receive a 50% bonus on all points earned. This means you can potentially earn 4.5 points per dollar on U.S. supermarket purchases, 3 points per dollar at U.S. gas stations, and 1.5 points per dollar on all other purchases.
Whether this card is a good fit depends on how much value you can extract from Membership Rewards points. If you’re skilled at finding high-value redemptions through Amex’s transfer partners or other options, this card could be worth the annual fee.
6. American Express Green Card
Annual Fee: $150
Membership Rewards Points:
- 3 points per dollar on restaurant purchases
- 3 points per dollar on travel purchases
- 3 points per dollar on transit purchases
- 1 point per dollar on all other purchases
The American Express Green Card offers a decent earning structure with 3 points per dollar on dining, travel, and transit purchases. However, it provides just 1 point per dollar on all other spending categories. While it includes a $100 Lounge Buddy credit and a $100 Clear credit, it may not offer enough value to justify the $150.
Conclusion
American Express offers a range of consumer credit cards to suit various preferences and lifestyles. The right card for you depends on your spending habits and the type of rewards you value most. Whether you prefer cash back, Membership Rewards points, or travel perks, there’s likely an American Express credit card that aligns with your financial goals. Remember to consider the annual fees, bonus offers, and additional benefits when choosing the card that best fits your needs. Ultimately, American Express provides options for both the budget-conscious and those seeking premium rewards and benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do all American Express cards have annual fees?
No, not all American Express cards have annual fees. There are several no-annual-fee options, such as the Blue Cash Everyday Card and the AmEx Everyday Card. However, many premium cards, like the Platinum Card, do have annual fees.
How do I redeem Membership Rewards points earned with American Express cards?
You can redeem Membership Rewards points for various rewards, including travel bookings, gift cards, merchandise, and statement credits. Additionally, you can transfer points to airline and hotel loyalty programs for potentially higher value redemptions.
What benefits do American Express cards offer for travel?
American Express cards often come with travel perks such as airport lounge access, travel credits for incidental fees, and complimentary travel insurance. The specific benefits vary depending on the card, so it’s essential to review the details of each card’s offerings.
Can I have multiple American Express credit cards?
Yes, you can have multiple American Express credit cards simultaneously. American Express generally allows cardmembers to have multiple cards, but there might be restrictions or considerations based on your credit profile.
How do I check if I’m eligible for an American Express card?
American Express provides a feature called “Apply with Confidence,” which offers an initial indication of whether you’re likely to get approved when you apply for a card. This helps you avoid unnecessary hard inquiries on your credit report. Eligibility criteria can vary by card, but generally, a good credit score is essential for approval.