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Amex Platinum vs Chase Sapphire Reserve — Which Card Wins for YOU?
The Amex Platinum and Chase Sapphire Reserve are the two most popular premium travel cards. Compare annual fees, rewards rates, lounge access, and travel perks to find the best card for your lifestyle.
Winner
American Express Platinum
Earns $291.00 more per year
Amex Platinum
37,200
MR points
$744.00
dollar value
+$989.00 net
Chase Sapphire Reserve
44,400
UR points
$888.00
dollar value
+$698.00 net
Category Breakdown
Side-by-side earning rates and annual value per spending category.
Dining
$500/mo
1x
$120.00
3x
$360.00
Travel
$200/mo
5x
$240.00
3x
$144.00
Groceries
$400/mo
1x
$96.00
1x
$96.00
Gas
$150/mo
1x
$36.00
1x
$36.00
Streaming
$50/mo
1x
$12.00
1x
$12.00
Everything Else
$1,000/mo
1x
$240.00
1x
$240.00
Amex Platinum
Chase Sapphire Reserve
Frequently Asked Questions
Which card has a higher annual fee, the Amex Platinum or CSR?
The Amex Platinum has a $695 annual fee, while the Chase Sapphire Reserve has a $550 annual fee. However, both cards offer substantial statement credits and travel perks that can offset much of the cost depending on your spending habits.
Is the Amex Platinum or CSR better for airport lounges?
The Amex Platinum offers broader lounge access, including Centurion Lounges, Priority Pass, Delta Sky Clubs (when flying Delta), and Plaza Premium. The CSR provides Priority Pass Select access. If lounge access is a priority, the Amex Platinum generally wins.
Which card earns more points on dining, the Amex Platinum or CSR?
The Chase Sapphire Reserve earns 3x points on dining worldwide, while the Amex Platinum earns only 1x on dining. For restaurant spending, the CSR is the clear winner.
Can I have both the Amex Platinum and Chase Sapphire Reserve?
Yes, you can hold both cards since they are from different issuers. Many travel enthusiasts carry both to maximize lounge access, transfer partners, and category bonuses across Amex Membership Rewards and Chase Ultimate Rewards ecosystems.
Which card has better travel transfer partners?
Both cards have excellent transfer partners but with different strengths. Chase Ultimate Rewards transfers to United, Hyatt, and Southwest, while Amex Membership Rewards transfers to Delta, ANA, and Hilton. The best choice depends on which airlines and hotels you prefer.