Chase Sapphire Reserve vs The Platinum Card From American Express

Chase Sapphire Reserve wins — The Chase Sapphire Reserve wins for most users due to its lower $550 fee, $300 travel credit, and more flexible Ultimate…

Scores: Chase Sapphire Reserve 8.5/10 · The Platinum Card From American Express 8/10

The Chase Sapphire Reserve wins for most users due to its lower $550 fee, $300 travel credit, and more flexible Ultimate Rewards points that transfer at strong ratios to partners like United and Hyatt. The Platinum Card excels in lounge access with Centurion Lounges and higher welcome bonuses but costs $695 annually. Data from The Points Guy and NerdWallet show Sapphire Reserve users averaging ...

Spec-by-spec comparison

Chase Sapphire ReserveThe Platinum Card From American Express
Annual Fee$550$695
Welcome Bonus60,000 points after $4,000 spend80,000 points after $8,000 spend
Rewards Rate3x on travel and dining5x on flights booked directly
Travel Benefits$300 annual travel creditCenturion Lounge access

Chase Sapphire Reserve

What works

  • Strong travel protections including trip delay reimbursement
  • Transferable Ultimate Rewards points to airline and hotel partners
  • No foreign transaction fees

What doesn't

  • High annual fee after first year
  • Limited lounge access compared to premium competitors

The Platinum Card From American Express

What works

  • Extensive airport lounge network including Centurion Lounges
  • High-value credits for Uber, Saks, and hotel elite status
  • Strong purchase and travel protections

What doesn't

  • Higher annual fee than most premium cards
  • Points transfer partners less flexible for some users

Bottom line

Our pick: Chase Sapphire Reserve. It edges out the alternative on strong travel protections including trip delay reimbursement. That said, The Platinum Card From American Express still wins on extensive airport lounge network including centurion lounges — consider it if that single trade matters most for your use.

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