OUR VERDICT
Amex Platinum wins for lounge access and luxury travel perks. Chase Sapphire Reserve wins for everyday value — 3x on dining and travel, better travel insurance, and easier-to-use credits.
Advertiser Disclosure: WiseIQ earns a commission when you apply through links on this page. This does not influence our rankings. See how we rank →
Unique advantage: 1,400+ airport lounges globally (Centurion, Priority Pass, Delta Sky Club)
✓ Pros
✗ Cons
Unique advantage: $300 annual travel credit — applies automatically to any travel purchase
✓ Pros
✗ Cons
Based on our analysis of thousands of consumer financial profiles, the most common mistake people make is focusing solely on the interest rate without considering total loan cost, fees, and repayment flexibility. Always compare the APR — not just the rate — and read the fine print on prepayment penalties before signing.
| Feature |  American Express Platinum Card |
 Chase Sapphire Reserve® |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Fee | $695 | $550 |
| Sign-Up Bonus | 80,000 points | 60,000 points |
| Dining Rewards | 1x points | 3x points |
| Travel Rewards | 5x flights (direct) | 3x all travel |
| Annual Credits | $640+ in credits | $300 travel credit |
| Lounge Access | 1,400+ lounges | Priority Pass (1,300+) |
| Transfer Partners | 21 | 14 |
| Portal Bonus | None | 50% more value |
| Travel Insurance | Good | Best in class |
| Foreign Transaction Fee | None | None |
Amex Platinum is best for frequent international travelers who value lounge access above all else and can maximize the multiple annual credits.
Chase Sapphire Reserve is best for travelers who want a simpler value proposition — the $300 travel credit is automatic, 3x on dining and travel is straightforward, and the travel insurance is unmatched.
Is Amex Platinum or Chase Sapphire Reserve worth it?
Both can be worth it if you use the benefits. Chase Sapphire Reserve's $300 travel credit is automatic and applies to any travel purchase, making it easier to offset the annual fee. Amex Platinum has more credits but they require specific merchants and activation. For most people, Chase Sapphire Reserve is easier to get value from.
Which has better lounge access — Amex Platinum or Chase Sapphire Reserve?
Amex Platinum wins on lounge access — 1,400+ lounges including Centurion Lounges (considered the best airport lounges in the US), Delta Sky Clubs, and Priority Pass. Chase Sapphire Reserve includes Priority Pass (1,300+ lounges) but not Centurion Lounges.
Is the $695 Amex Platinum annual fee worth it?
It depends on whether you use the credits. Amex Platinum offers $640+ in annual credits ($200 airline, $200 hotel, $240 digital entertainment). If you use all credits, the effective annual fee is under $100. But the credits require specific merchants and activation — many cardholders don't fully utilize them.