Choosing between the American Express Gold Card ($325/yr) and the The Platinum Card from American Express ($695/yr) comes down to where you spend most. Both cards can deliver real value — let’s break it down, then run your numbers to find the winner.
Strongest in dining at 4% (up to $50,000/yr). 4X points at restaurants worldwide, 4X on U.S. supermarkets, 3X on flights.
Perfect if: You spend enough in bonus categories to easily offset the annual fee.
Apply NowStrongest in travel at 5% via portal. 5X on flights and prepaid hotels through Amex Travel. Global Lounge Collection access.
Perfect if: You maximize portal bookings and want premium perks to offset the fee.
Apply Now| Feature | American Express Gold Card | The Platinum Card from American Express |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Fee | $325 | $695 |
| Sign-Up Bonus | 60,000 points after $6,000 spend in 6 months | 80,000 points after $8,000 spend in 6 months |
| Foreign Transaction Fee | 0% | 0% |
| Base Reward Rate | <strong>1.0%</strong> | <strong>1.0%</strong> |
| Travel Rewards | 3% | <strong>5%</strong> |
| Dining Rewards | <strong>4% (up to $50,000/yr)</strong> | 1% |
| Groceries Rewards | <strong>4% (up to $25,000/yr)</strong> | 1% |
| Key Benefits | 4X points at restaurants worldwide, 4X on U.S. supermarkets, 3X on flights. | 5X on flights and prepaid hotels through Amex Travel. Global Lounge Collection access. |
American Express Gold Card pulls ahead for dining, groceries spending.
The Platinum Card from American Express wins on travel.
The $370/year fee difference means The Platinum Card from American Express needs to earn at least that much more in rewards to justify its cost.
Not sure which fits your life? Enter your spending below and we’ll do the math.
Enter your typical monthly spending and we’ll show you exactly which card earns more — including fees and bonuses.