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$895
Annual Fee
80,000
Flex point · Welcome Bonus
5X
Top Rate
Annual Fee
$895
Authorized User Fee
$195
Foreign Transaction Fee
$0
Network
Amex Platinum
Rewards Currency
American Express Membership Rewards
Credit Required
Good to Excellent
Welcome Offer
80,000
Flex point
Spend $12,000 in the first 6 months
Hotels
Prepaid hotels booked via amextravel.com
Flights
5X Membership Rewards® points on up to $500,000 per calendar year on flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel via AmexTravel.com (then 1X)
Cap: $500,000/annual
Hotels
Hotels booked directly (not through Amex Travel)
All Other
All other purchases
Benefits & Perks
Program & Transfers
Transfer your points to 20 leading loyalty programs for maximum value.
Reviews & Analysis
Details & Terms
| Rule | Details |
|---|---|
| Amex Family | If you have received a signup bonus from a higher tiered card, you are ineligible to receive a bonus from a lower tiered card in that same card family |
| No 5/24 | Card approval not subject to 5-personal-cards-in-24-months rule |
| Amex 1/7 | Amex allows only 1 bonus per specific card every 7 years (yours or that version of the card) |
| Amex Popup Jail | After you apply, Amex may show a pop-up saying you're ineligible for the welcome bonus |
| Purchase APR | 19.49%–28.49% (Variable) |
| Cash Advance APR | 26.74% (Variable) |
| Foreign Transaction Fee | $0 |
| Authorized User Fee | $195 (first 3 free) |
$895
Annual Fee
80,000
Flex point · Welcome Bonus
5X
Top Rate
Annual Fee
$895
Authorized User Fee
$195
Foreign Transaction Fee
$0
Network
Amex Platinum
Rewards Currency
American Express Membership Rewards
Credit Required
Good to Excellent
Welcome Offer
80,000
Flex point
Spend $12,000 in the first 6 months
Hotels
Prepaid hotels booked via amextravel.com
Flights
5X Membership Rewards® points on up to $500,000 per calendar year on flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel via AmexTravel.com (then 1X)
Cap: $500,000/annual
Hotels
Hotels booked directly (not through Amex Travel)
All Other
All other purchases
Benefits & Perks
Program & Transfers
Transfer your points to 20 leading loyalty programs for maximum value.
Reviews & Analysis
Details & Terms
| Rule | Details |
|---|---|
| Amex Family | If you have received a signup bonus from a higher tiered card, you are ineligible to receive a bonus from a lower tiered card in that same card family |
| No 5/24 | Card approval not subject to 5-personal-cards-in-24-months rule |
| Amex 1/7 | Amex allows only 1 bonus per specific card every 7 years (yours or that version of the card) |
| Amex Popup Jail | After you apply, Amex may show a pop-up saying you're ineligible for the welcome bonus |
| Purchase APR | 19.49%–28.49% (Variable) |
| Cash Advance APR | 26.74% (Variable) |
| Foreign Transaction Fee | $0 |
| Authorized User Fee | $195 (first 3 free) |
$895
Annual Fee
80,000
Flex point · Welcome Bonus
5X
Top Rate
Annual Fee
$895
Authorized User Fee
$195
Foreign Transaction Fee
$0
Network
Amex Platinum
Rewards Currency
American Express Membership Rewards
Credit Required
Good to Excellent
Welcome Offer
80,000
Flex point
Spend $12,000 in the first 6 months
Hotels
Prepaid hotels booked via amextravel.com
Flights
5X Membership Rewards® points on up to $500,000 per calendar year on flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel via AmexTravel.com (then 1X)
Cap: $500,000/annual
Hotels
Hotels booked directly (not through Amex Travel)
All Other
All other purchases
Benefits & Perks
Program & Transfers
Transfer your points to 20 leading loyalty programs for maximum value.
Reviews & Analysis
Details & Terms
| Rule | Details |
|---|---|
| Amex Family | If you have received a signup bonus from a higher tiered card, you are ineligible to receive a bonus from a lower tiered card in that same card family |
| No 5/24 | Card approval not subject to 5-personal-cards-in-24-months rule |
| Amex 1/7 | Amex allows only 1 bonus per specific card every 7 years (yours or that version of the card) |
| Amex Popup Jail | After you apply, Amex may show a pop-up saying you're ineligible for the welcome bonus |
| Purchase APR | 19.49%–28.49% (Variable) |
| Cash Advance APR | 26.74% (Variable) |
| Foreign Transaction Fee | $0 |
| Authorized User Fee | $195 (first 3 free) |
Up to
$3,493
in annual credits
$600 hotel credit
$600
Annual
$300 every 6 months for prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts and Hotel Collection stays through Amex Travel with room upgrades and $100 property credits
$400 Resy credit
$400
Annual
Up to $100 per quarter in statement credits for dining at 10,000+ US restaurants on the Resy reservation platform
$300 streaming credit
$300
Annual
$25 monthly credit for Disney+, Hulu, ESPN+, YouTube Premium, YouTube TV, Peacock, Paramount+, NYT, or WSJ subscriptions
$300 SoulCycle credit
$300
Annual
Get up to $300 per year in statement credits toward SoulCycle at-home bike purchase or accessories for home workouts
$300 Lululemon credit
$300
Annual
Get up to $300 per year in quarterly statement credits for Lululemon activewear and accessories at stores and online
$300 Equinox credit
$300
Annual
Get up to $300 per year in statement credits toward Equinox+ digital fitness membership or Equinox Club Access at premium gyms
$209 CLEAR Plus credit
$209
Annual
Automatic statement credit covering CLEAR Plus membership at 50+ airports for expedited security screening with biometric identification
$200 airline credit
$200
Annual
Up to $200 back annually for checked bags, seat selection, and in-flight purchases at one airline you select each calendar year
$200 Oura Ring credit
$200
Annual
Get up to $200 per year in statement credits toward Oura Ring purchase or monthly membership for sleep and wellness tracking
$200 Uber Cash
$200
Annual
Get $15 in Uber Cash each month plus a $20 December bonus for Uber rides and Uber Eats orders
$155 Walmart+ credit
$155
Annual
Get monthly Credits covering Walmart+ valued at $155 annually for free delivery, mobile scan and go, and fuel savings at 14,000+ gas stations
$120 Uber One credit
$120
Annual
Get up to $120 per year in statement credits for Uber One membership with auto-renewal for $0 delivery fees and reduced ride prices
Fast track to top-tier perks
This card comes with 2 elite status and membership benefits that can unlock priority service, upgrades, and exclusive access.
Get free elite status with Hertz President's Circle, National Emerald Executive, Avis Preferred Plus for free vehicle upgrades
Platinum Travel counselors specialize in providing custom itineraries and tailored recommendations to help you make the most of your travels.
Combined Protection Value
$196,600
You're not responsible for unauthorized charges. Amex covers 100% of fraudulent transactions when reported promptly.
Optional primary collision and theft coverage up to $100,000 without filing through personal insurance — just $19.95-$24.95 per rental period
Secondary coverage up to $75,000 for theft or damage to rental vehicles when you decline the rental company's CDW
Get coverage up to $10,000 per item and $50,000 annually for eligible purchases against theft or accidental damage within 90 days
Coverage for non-refundable travel expenses up to $10,000 per trip if you cancel due to illness, injury, severe weather, or other covered reasons
Up to $800 per claim and $1,600 annually for cell phone damage or theft when paying monthly wireless bill with Platinum Card — just $50 deductible
Entertainment access with exclusive presales and VIP events
Get exclusive ticket presales, premium seating, invitation-only VIP experiences for concerts, theater, sports, and cultural events worldwide
Most partners accept points at a 1:1 ratio with instant or near-instant transfers.
| Partner | Ratio | Transfer Time | Value Retained | Point Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5:8 | instant | — | — | |
| 1:1 | instant | — | — | |
| 1:1 | 1-2 days | — | 1.8 cpp | |
| 5:4 | instant | — | 1.35 cpp | |
| 1:1 | instant | — | — | |
| 1:1 | instant | 94% | — | |
| 1:1 | instant | 88% | 1.5 cpp | |
| 1:1 | instant | 81% | 1.4 cpp | |
| 1:1 | instant | 81% | — | |
| 1:1 | instant | 75% | — | |
| 1:1 | instant | 75% | 1.2 cpp | |
| 1:1 | instant | 75% | — | |
| 1:1 | instant | 75% | — | |
| 1:1 | instant | 69% | — | |
| 1:1 | instant | 69% | — |
| Partner | Ratio | Transfer Time | Value Retained | Point Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1:2 | instant | 63% | 0.5 cpp | |
| 1:1 | 1-2 days | 44% | 0.7 cpp | |
| 2:3 | instant | 44% | 0.6 cpp |
| Partner | Ratio | Transfer Time | Value Retained | Point Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|
cathay_pacific_asia_miles | 1:1 | instant | — | — |
air_france_klm_flying_blue | 1:1 | instant | 81% | — |
The Amex Platinum is the most luxurious personal travel card on the market, packed with elite perks, statement credits, and access to the most extensive lounge network available.
**The American Express Platinum has no true rival among premium travel cards** — but that level of luxury comes with a hefty $895 annual fee. The standard sign-up bonus is **175,000 points**, which we value at 1.5 cents each. Points can be transferred to any of 18 airline partners or 3 hotel partners. The Platinum Card also offers one of the most extensive lists of statement credits and travel benefits, but **long-term value depends on whether those perks align with your lifestyle and travel habits**.
This is Amex’s flagship personal travel card — and it's packed with benefits designed for frequent travelers and lifestyle spenders. While the **$895 annual fee** is significant, the sign-up bonus can offset it in the first year.
- Welcome bonus: 175,000 points with $8,000 spend in 6 months (sometimes as high as 200,000)
- Travel perks:
- $200 airline incidental credit
- $600 hotel credit (on Fine Hotels + Resorts or The Hotel Collection* bookings via Amex Travel) - $300 every six months
- Access to the Global Lounge Collection for cardholder and 2 guests when you enroll in Priority Pass Select
- Centurion Club access (guests must pay $50/adult and $30/child)
- 10 Delta Sky Club visit-days per year
- Lifestyle credits:
- $400 Resy dining credit ($100 each quarter)
- $200 in Uber Cash ($15/month + $20 in December)
- $120 Uber One credit
- $300 digital entertainment credit ($25/month) toward services like Disney+, Hulu, ESPN+, NYT, Paramount+, YouTube Premium and YouTube TV, and Peacock
- $300 LuLulemon credit ($75 each quarter)
- $155 annual Walmart+ membership
- $100 Saks Fifth Avenue credit ($50, 2x per year)
- $209 CLEAR Plus credit for faster airport security
- $300 Equinox credit
- $300 SoulCycle credit (must join Equinox first)
- $200 Oura credit (enrollment required)
- Other benefits:
- Premium purchase protection
- Extended warranties
- Exclusive Amex Offers
**If you’re someone who can take full advantage of these credits, they more than offset the annual fee**.
_*The Hotel Collection requires a 2 night minimum stay_
This card may not be the best fit if:
- You can’t find a targeted or elevated welcome offer of at least 100,000 points
- You don’t use the credits or perks frequently enough to justify the $895 fee
- You want better point multipliers for everyday spending — Amex Platinum only offers 5x on flights and hotel bookings through Amex Travel
- You haven’t yet earned sign up bonuses from the Amex Green or Gold cards — Amex’s once-per-lifetime bonus rule means getting the Platinum first can lock you out of those other bonuses
**Amex points are great in theory. We just find them harder to collect and more expensive to hold than Chase points.**
- If you’re in the points game long enough, you’ll dabble in both main systems (Chase & Amex).
- Amex has a one card bonus every 7 years rule, so ultimately, there will be more of a limit to how many you can collect via sign-up bonuses.
- There is only one no-fee card that allows you to earn and keep Membership Rewards points - the Blue Business Plus card.
- Delta and Hilton are solid transfer values and having Amex points gives you top-off flexibility if you are invested in either of those systems.
Credit Utilization (60%)
Excludes earning value, lounge access, insurance, and elite status
Total Value Captured
$2,095.80
Annual Fee
-$895
Net Annual Value
+$1,200.80
The Points Guy names the Amex Platinum as the 2026 Premium Card of the Year and Lounge Access Card of the Year, highlighting the card's comprehensive benefits after the recent refresh.
Comprehensive review covering all benefits, earning rates, credits, and how to maximize the $895 annual fee with over $3,500 in potential value.
NerdWallet's in-depth analysis of the Platinum Card as "the gold standard" of premium travel cards, detailing the extensive lounge access and annual credits that justify the $895 fee.
Detailed breakdown of whether the $895 annual fee is justified by the card's benefits, including specific calculations for different traveler profiles.
CNBC Select's review highlighting the card's extensive airport lounge access, elite status perks, and annual credits across shopping, travel, and entertainment.
CNBC Select analyzes whether the $895 annual fee is worth it, with specific breakdowns of credit usage and spending patterns needed to maximize value.
Comprehensive guide to lesser-known Platinum Card benefits including ShopRunner, International Airline Program, Leaders Club Titanium status, and various insurance coverages.
Detailed coverage of the Platinum Card refresh including the fee increase to $895, new 175K/200K signup bonuses, and analysis of the $600 hotel credit, $400 Resy credit, and $300 Lululemon credit.
Bankrate calls the Amex Platinum "the cream of the crop when it comes to premium card perks," detailing first-class travel benefits and credits worth more than the annual fee.
Comprehensive 2026 review analyzing the card's refresh, new benefits, and whether the value proposition holds up for different types of travelers.
U.S. News Money's analysis of the Platinum Card's benefits including the $200 airline credit, Uber credits, streaming credits, and Equinox membership for those who travel and spend enough to justify the fee.
User reviews and expert analysis from WalletHub examining whether the Platinum Card delivers value for 2026, with community insights on credit utilization strategies.
| Source | Date | URL |
|---|---|---|
| — | — | View source |
| — | — | View source |
| — | — | View source |
Up to
$3,493
in annual credits
$600 hotel credit
$600
Annual
$300 every 6 months for prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts and Hotel Collection stays through Amex Travel with room upgrades and $100 property credits
$400 Resy credit
$400
Annual
Up to $100 per quarter in statement credits for dining at 10,000+ US restaurants on the Resy reservation platform
$300 streaming credit
$300
Annual
$25 monthly credit for Disney+, Hulu, ESPN+, YouTube Premium, YouTube TV, Peacock, Paramount+, NYT, or WSJ subscriptions
$300 SoulCycle credit
$300
Annual
Get up to $300 per year in statement credits toward SoulCycle at-home bike purchase or accessories for home workouts
$300 Lululemon credit
$300
Annual
Get up to $300 per year in quarterly statement credits for Lululemon activewear and accessories at stores and online
$300 Equinox credit
$300
Annual
Get up to $300 per year in statement credits toward Equinox+ digital fitness membership or Equinox Club Access at premium gyms
$209 CLEAR Plus credit
$209
Annual
Automatic statement credit covering CLEAR Plus membership at 50+ airports for expedited security screening with biometric identification
$200 airline credit
$200
Annual
Up to $200 back annually for checked bags, seat selection, and in-flight purchases at one airline you select each calendar year
$200 Oura Ring credit
$200
Annual
Get up to $200 per year in statement credits toward Oura Ring purchase or monthly membership for sleep and wellness tracking
$200 Uber Cash
$200
Annual
Get $15 in Uber Cash each month plus a $20 December bonus for Uber rides and Uber Eats orders
$155 Walmart+ credit
$155
Annual
Get monthly Credits covering Walmart+ valued at $155 annually for free delivery, mobile scan and go, and fuel savings at 14,000+ gas stations
$120 Uber One credit
$120
Annual
Get up to $120 per year in statement credits for Uber One membership with auto-renewal for $0 delivery fees and reduced ride prices
Fast track to top-tier perks
This card comes with 2 elite status and membership benefits that can unlock priority service, upgrades, and exclusive access.
Get free elite status with Hertz President's Circle, National Emerald Executive, Avis Preferred Plus for free vehicle upgrades
Platinum Travel counselors specialize in providing custom itineraries and tailored recommendations to help you make the most of your travels.
Combined Protection Value
$196,600
You're not responsible for unauthorized charges. Amex covers 100% of fraudulent transactions when reported promptly.
Optional primary collision and theft coverage up to $100,000 without filing through personal insurance — just $19.95-$24.95 per rental period
Secondary coverage up to $75,000 for theft or damage to rental vehicles when you decline the rental company's CDW
Get coverage up to $10,000 per item and $50,000 annually for eligible purchases against theft or accidental damage within 90 days
Coverage for non-refundable travel expenses up to $10,000 per trip if you cancel due to illness, injury, severe weather, or other covered reasons
Up to $800 per claim and $1,600 annually for cell phone damage or theft when paying monthly wireless bill with Platinum Card — just $50 deductible
Entertainment access with exclusive presales and VIP events
Get exclusive ticket presales, premium seating, invitation-only VIP experiences for concerts, theater, sports, and cultural events worldwide
Most partners accept points at a 1:1 ratio with instant or near-instant transfers.
| Partner | Ratio | Transfer Time | Value Retained | Point Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5:8 | instant | — | — | |
| 1:1 | instant | — | — | |
| 1:1 | 1-2 days | — | 1.8 cpp | |
| 5:4 | instant | — | 1.35 cpp | |
| 1:1 | instant | — | — | |
| 1:1 | instant | 94% | — | |
| 1:1 | instant | 88% | 1.5 cpp | |
| 1:1 | instant | 81% | 1.4 cpp | |
| 1:1 | instant | 81% | — | |
| 1:1 | instant | 75% | — | |
| 1:1 | instant | 75% | 1.2 cpp | |
| 1:1 | instant | 75% | — | |
| 1:1 | instant | 75% | — | |
| 1:1 | instant | 69% | — | |
| 1:1 | instant | 69% | — |
| Partner | Ratio | Transfer Time | Value Retained | Point Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1:2 | instant | 63% | 0.5 cpp | |
| 1:1 | 1-2 days | 44% | 0.7 cpp | |
| 2:3 | instant | 44% | 0.6 cpp |
| Partner | Ratio | Transfer Time | Value Retained | Point Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|
cathay_pacific_asia_miles | 1:1 | instant | — | — |
air_france_klm_flying_blue | 1:1 | instant | 81% | — |
The Amex Platinum is the most luxurious personal travel card on the market, packed with elite perks, statement credits, and access to the most extensive lounge network available.
**The American Express Platinum has no true rival among premium travel cards** — but that level of luxury comes with a hefty $895 annual fee. The standard sign-up bonus is **175,000 points**, which we value at 1.5 cents each. Points can be transferred to any of 18 airline partners or 3 hotel partners. The Platinum Card also offers one of the most extensive lists of statement credits and travel benefits, but **long-term value depends on whether those perks align with your lifestyle and travel habits**.
This is Amex’s flagship personal travel card — and it's packed with benefits designed for frequent travelers and lifestyle spenders. While the **$895 annual fee** is significant, the sign-up bonus can offset it in the first year.
- Welcome bonus: 175,000 points with $8,000 spend in 6 months (sometimes as high as 200,000)
- Travel perks:
- $200 airline incidental credit
- $600 hotel credit (on Fine Hotels + Resorts or The Hotel Collection* bookings via Amex Travel) - $300 every six months
- Access to the Global Lounge Collection for cardholder and 2 guests when you enroll in Priority Pass Select
- Centurion Club access (guests must pay $50/adult and $30/child)
- 10 Delta Sky Club visit-days per year
- Lifestyle credits:
- $400 Resy dining credit ($100 each quarter)
- $200 in Uber Cash ($15/month + $20 in December)
- $120 Uber One credit
- $300 digital entertainment credit ($25/month) toward services like Disney+, Hulu, ESPN+, NYT, Paramount+, YouTube Premium and YouTube TV, and Peacock
- $300 LuLulemon credit ($75 each quarter)
- $155 annual Walmart+ membership
- $100 Saks Fifth Avenue credit ($50, 2x per year)
- $209 CLEAR Plus credit for faster airport security
- $300 Equinox credit
- $300 SoulCycle credit (must join Equinox first)
- $200 Oura credit (enrollment required)
- Other benefits:
- Premium purchase protection
- Extended warranties
- Exclusive Amex Offers
**If you’re someone who can take full advantage of these credits, they more than offset the annual fee**.
_*The Hotel Collection requires a 2 night minimum stay_
This card may not be the best fit if:
- You can’t find a targeted or elevated welcome offer of at least 100,000 points
- You don’t use the credits or perks frequently enough to justify the $895 fee
- You want better point multipliers for everyday spending — Amex Platinum only offers 5x on flights and hotel bookings through Amex Travel
- You haven’t yet earned sign up bonuses from the Amex Green or Gold cards — Amex’s once-per-lifetime bonus rule means getting the Platinum first can lock you out of those other bonuses
**Amex points are great in theory. We just find them harder to collect and more expensive to hold than Chase points.**
- If you’re in the points game long enough, you’ll dabble in both main systems (Chase & Amex).
- Amex has a one card bonus every 7 years rule, so ultimately, there will be more of a limit to how many you can collect via sign-up bonuses.
- There is only one no-fee card that allows you to earn and keep Membership Rewards points - the Blue Business Plus card.
- Delta and Hilton are solid transfer values and having Amex points gives you top-off flexibility if you are invested in either of those systems.
Credit Utilization (60%)
Excludes earning value, lounge access, insurance, and elite status
Total Value Captured
$2,095.80
Annual Fee
-$895
Net Annual Value
+$1,200.80
The Points Guy names the Amex Platinum as the 2026 Premium Card of the Year and Lounge Access Card of the Year, highlighting the card's comprehensive benefits after the recent refresh.
Comprehensive review covering all benefits, earning rates, credits, and how to maximize the $895 annual fee with over $3,500 in potential value.
NerdWallet's in-depth analysis of the Platinum Card as "the gold standard" of premium travel cards, detailing the extensive lounge access and annual credits that justify the $895 fee.
Detailed breakdown of whether the $895 annual fee is justified by the card's benefits, including specific calculations for different traveler profiles.
CNBC Select's review highlighting the card's extensive airport lounge access, elite status perks, and annual credits across shopping, travel, and entertainment.
CNBC Select analyzes whether the $895 annual fee is worth it, with specific breakdowns of credit usage and spending patterns needed to maximize value.
Comprehensive guide to lesser-known Platinum Card benefits including ShopRunner, International Airline Program, Leaders Club Titanium status, and various insurance coverages.
Detailed coverage of the Platinum Card refresh including the fee increase to $895, new 175K/200K signup bonuses, and analysis of the $600 hotel credit, $400 Resy credit, and $300 Lululemon credit.
Bankrate calls the Amex Platinum "the cream of the crop when it comes to premium card perks," detailing first-class travel benefits and credits worth more than the annual fee.
Comprehensive 2026 review analyzing the card's refresh, new benefits, and whether the value proposition holds up for different types of travelers.
U.S. News Money's analysis of the Platinum Card's benefits including the $200 airline credit, Uber credits, streaming credits, and Equinox membership for those who travel and spend enough to justify the fee.
User reviews and expert analysis from WalletHub examining whether the Platinum Card delivers value for 2026, with community insights on credit utilization strategies.
| Source | Date | URL |
|---|---|---|
| — | — | View source |
| — | — | View source |
| — | — | View source |
Up to
$3,493
in annual credits
$600 hotel credit
$600
Annual
$300 every 6 months for prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts and Hotel Collection stays through Amex Travel with room upgrades and $100 property credits
$400 Resy credit
$400
Annual
Up to $100 per quarter in statement credits for dining at 10,000+ US restaurants on the Resy reservation platform
$300 streaming credit
$300
Annual
$25 monthly credit for Disney+, Hulu, ESPN+, YouTube Premium, YouTube TV, Peacock, Paramount+, NYT, or WSJ subscriptions
$300 SoulCycle credit
$300
Annual
Get up to $300 per year in statement credits toward SoulCycle at-home bike purchase or accessories for home workouts
$300 Lululemon credit
$300
Annual
Get up to $300 per year in quarterly statement credits for Lululemon activewear and accessories at stores and online
$300 Equinox credit
$300
Annual
Get up to $300 per year in statement credits toward Equinox+ digital fitness membership or Equinox Club Access at premium gyms
$209 CLEAR Plus credit
$209
Annual
Automatic statement credit covering CLEAR Plus membership at 50+ airports for expedited security screening with biometric identification
$200 airline credit
$200
Annual
Up to $200 back annually for checked bags, seat selection, and in-flight purchases at one airline you select each calendar year
$200 Oura Ring credit
$200
Annual
Get up to $200 per year in statement credits toward Oura Ring purchase or monthly membership for sleep and wellness tracking
$200 Uber Cash
$200
Annual
Get $15 in Uber Cash each month plus a $20 December bonus for Uber rides and Uber Eats orders
$155 Walmart+ credit
$155
Annual
Get monthly Credits covering Walmart+ valued at $155 annually for free delivery, mobile scan and go, and fuel savings at 14,000+ gas stations
$120 Uber One credit
$120
Annual
Get up to $120 per year in statement credits for Uber One membership with auto-renewal for $0 delivery fees and reduced ride prices
Fast track to top-tier perks
This card comes with 2 elite status and membership benefits that can unlock priority service, upgrades, and exclusive access.
Get free elite status with Hertz President's Circle, National Emerald Executive, Avis Preferred Plus for free vehicle upgrades
Platinum Travel counselors specialize in providing custom itineraries and tailored recommendations to help you make the most of your travels.
Combined Protection Value
$196,600
You're not responsible for unauthorized charges. Amex covers 100% of fraudulent transactions when reported promptly.
Optional primary collision and theft coverage up to $100,000 without filing through personal insurance — just $19.95-$24.95 per rental period
Secondary coverage up to $75,000 for theft or damage to rental vehicles when you decline the rental company's CDW
Get coverage up to $10,000 per item and $50,000 annually for eligible purchases against theft or accidental damage within 90 days
Coverage for non-refundable travel expenses up to $10,000 per trip if you cancel due to illness, injury, severe weather, or other covered reasons
Up to $800 per claim and $1,600 annually for cell phone damage or theft when paying monthly wireless bill with Platinum Card — just $50 deductible
Entertainment access with exclusive presales and VIP events
Get exclusive ticket presales, premium seating, invitation-only VIP experiences for concerts, theater, sports, and cultural events worldwide
Most partners accept points at a 1:1 ratio with instant or near-instant transfers.
| Partner | Ratio | Transfer Time | Value Retained | Point Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5:8 | instant | — | — | |
| 1:1 | instant | — | — | |
| 1:1 | 1-2 days | — | 1.8 cpp | |
| 5:4 | instant | — | 1.35 cpp | |
| 1:1 | instant | — | — | |
| 1:1 | instant | 94% | — | |
| 1:1 | instant | 88% | 1.5 cpp | |
| 1:1 | instant | 81% | 1.4 cpp | |
| 1:1 | instant | 81% | — | |
| 1:1 | instant | 75% | — | |
| 1:1 | instant | 75% | 1.2 cpp | |
| 1:1 | instant | 75% | — | |
| 1:1 | instant | 75% | — | |
| 1:1 | instant | 69% | — | |
| 1:1 | instant | 69% | — |
| Partner | Ratio | Transfer Time | Value Retained | Point Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1:2 | instant | 63% | 0.5 cpp | |
| 1:1 | 1-2 days | 44% | 0.7 cpp | |
| 2:3 | instant | 44% | 0.6 cpp |
| Partner | Ratio | Transfer Time | Value Retained | Point Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|
cathay_pacific_asia_miles | 1:1 | instant | — | — |
air_france_klm_flying_blue | 1:1 | instant | 81% | — |
The Amex Platinum is the most luxurious personal travel card on the market, packed with elite perks, statement credits, and access to the most extensive lounge network available.
**The American Express Platinum has no true rival among premium travel cards** — but that level of luxury comes with a hefty $895 annual fee. The standard sign-up bonus is **175,000 points**, which we value at 1.5 cents each. Points can be transferred to any of 18 airline partners or 3 hotel partners. The Platinum Card also offers one of the most extensive lists of statement credits and travel benefits, but **long-term value depends on whether those perks align with your lifestyle and travel habits**.
This is Amex’s flagship personal travel card — and it's packed with benefits designed for frequent travelers and lifestyle spenders. While the **$895 annual fee** is significant, the sign-up bonus can offset it in the first year.
- Welcome bonus: 175,000 points with $8,000 spend in 6 months (sometimes as high as 200,000)
- Travel perks:
- $200 airline incidental credit
- $600 hotel credit (on Fine Hotels + Resorts or The Hotel Collection* bookings via Amex Travel) - $300 every six months
- Access to the Global Lounge Collection for cardholder and 2 guests when you enroll in Priority Pass Select
- Centurion Club access (guests must pay $50/adult and $30/child)
- 10 Delta Sky Club visit-days per year
- Lifestyle credits:
- $400 Resy dining credit ($100 each quarter)
- $200 in Uber Cash ($15/month + $20 in December)
- $120 Uber One credit
- $300 digital entertainment credit ($25/month) toward services like Disney+, Hulu, ESPN+, NYT, Paramount+, YouTube Premium and YouTube TV, and Peacock
- $300 LuLulemon credit ($75 each quarter)
- $155 annual Walmart+ membership
- $100 Saks Fifth Avenue credit ($50, 2x per year)
- $209 CLEAR Plus credit for faster airport security
- $300 Equinox credit
- $300 SoulCycle credit (must join Equinox first)
- $200 Oura credit (enrollment required)
- Other benefits:
- Premium purchase protection
- Extended warranties
- Exclusive Amex Offers
**If you’re someone who can take full advantage of these credits, they more than offset the annual fee**.
_*The Hotel Collection requires a 2 night minimum stay_
This card may not be the best fit if:
- You can’t find a targeted or elevated welcome offer of at least 100,000 points
- You don’t use the credits or perks frequently enough to justify the $895 fee
- You want better point multipliers for everyday spending — Amex Platinum only offers 5x on flights and hotel bookings through Amex Travel
- You haven’t yet earned sign up bonuses from the Amex Green or Gold cards — Amex’s once-per-lifetime bonus rule means getting the Platinum first can lock you out of those other bonuses
**Amex points are great in theory. We just find them harder to collect and more expensive to hold than Chase points.**
- If you’re in the points game long enough, you’ll dabble in both main systems (Chase & Amex).
- Amex has a one card bonus every 7 years rule, so ultimately, there will be more of a limit to how many you can collect via sign-up bonuses.
- There is only one no-fee card that allows you to earn and keep Membership Rewards points - the Blue Business Plus card.
- Delta and Hilton are solid transfer values and having Amex points gives you top-off flexibility if you are invested in either of those systems.
Credit Utilization (60%)
Excludes earning value, lounge access, insurance, and elite status
Total Value Captured
$2,095.80
Annual Fee
-$895
Net Annual Value
+$1,200.80
The Points Guy names the Amex Platinum as the 2026 Premium Card of the Year and Lounge Access Card of the Year, highlighting the card's comprehensive benefits after the recent refresh.
Comprehensive review covering all benefits, earning rates, credits, and how to maximize the $895 annual fee with over $3,500 in potential value.
NerdWallet's in-depth analysis of the Platinum Card as "the gold standard" of premium travel cards, detailing the extensive lounge access and annual credits that justify the $895 fee.
Detailed breakdown of whether the $895 annual fee is justified by the card's benefits, including specific calculations for different traveler profiles.
CNBC Select's review highlighting the card's extensive airport lounge access, elite status perks, and annual credits across shopping, travel, and entertainment.
CNBC Select analyzes whether the $895 annual fee is worth it, with specific breakdowns of credit usage and spending patterns needed to maximize value.
Comprehensive guide to lesser-known Platinum Card benefits including ShopRunner, International Airline Program, Leaders Club Titanium status, and various insurance coverages.
Detailed coverage of the Platinum Card refresh including the fee increase to $895, new 175K/200K signup bonuses, and analysis of the $600 hotel credit, $400 Resy credit, and $300 Lululemon credit.
Bankrate calls the Amex Platinum "the cream of the crop when it comes to premium card perks," detailing first-class travel benefits and credits worth more than the annual fee.
Comprehensive 2026 review analyzing the card's refresh, new benefits, and whether the value proposition holds up for different types of travelers.
U.S. News Money's analysis of the Platinum Card's benefits including the $200 airline credit, Uber credits, streaming credits, and Equinox membership for those who travel and spend enough to justify the fee.
User reviews and expert analysis from WalletHub examining whether the Platinum Card delivers value for 2026, with community insights on credit utilization strategies.
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$120 Global Entry/TSA PreCheck
$120
Annual
Get reimbursed for Global Entry, TSA PreCheck, or NEXUS application fees with automatic statement credit
$100 Saks Fifth Avenue
$100
Annual
Get $50 every six months to use at Saks Fifth Avenue stores or online with no minimum purchase required
Get reimbursed up to $500 per trip for meals, lodging, and necessities when common carrier delays exceed 6 hours on trips booked with Platinum Card
Get reimbursed up to $300 per item and $1,000 per year when merchants refuse to accept returns on eligible purchases within 90 days
Get secondary coverage up to $3,000 per person for lost or damaged baggage when traveling on paid common carrier tickets booked with Platinum Card
Get an additional year of warranty protection on eligible purchases with original manufacturer warranties of 5 years or less at no extra cost
Get 24/7 emergency assistance for medical referrals, legal help, translation services, and lost document support when traveling 100+ miles from home
- We do find Amex travel a higher quality of service over the Chase travel portal.
Before applying for any personal American Express card, be aware of two specific rules:
1. You can only receive the sign-up bonus on each Amex card once every 10 years.
2. To be eligible for all potential bonuses, you must apply in this order: Green --> Gold --> Platinum. (If you start with the Platinum, you cannot later receive the bonuses for the Green or Gold).
All Amex personal cards count toward your 5/24 status, so keep that in mind.
- The Green Card is the entry-level personal card, though it still has a $150 annual fee. It often has a 40,000-point sign-up bonus, and its standout benefit is a $199 Clear credit, which can more than cover its annual fee. Whether it’s worth getting depends on your 5/24 status and how you value the bonus and benefits.
- The Gold Card is the next step, with a $325 annual fee and a 100,000-point welcome bonus. It also provides several credits and perks related to dining and groceries.
Amex does not currently impose the same “card order” rule on its business cards, making them a good option if you are close to 5/24. The annual fees, welcome bonuses, and other benefits on these business cards are similar to their personal counterparts, allowing you to start collecting American Express Membership Rewards without affecting your 5/24 count. However, the once-per-lifetime bonus rule still applies to business cards, so keep that in mind as well.
I enjoyed the Amex Platinum and got solid value from the welcome offer and the credits. The Uber and airline perks were helpful, and I appreciated the Centurion Lounge experience. But as time went on, I found the Chase Sapphire Reserve was simply a better fit for how I personally travel and redeem points.
The Chase portal’s simplicity, the 1.5x redemption boost, and the ability to pool points from multiple no-annual-fee cards gave me more flexibility. While Amex Platinum delivers luxury, the Sapphire Reserve delivers more consistent value for my day-to-day and travel lifestyle—so after the first year, I moved on.
$120 Global Entry/TSA PreCheck
$120
Annual
Get reimbursed for Global Entry, TSA PreCheck, or NEXUS application fees with automatic statement credit
$100 Saks Fifth Avenue
$100
Annual
Get $50 every six months to use at Saks Fifth Avenue stores or online with no minimum purchase required
Get reimbursed up to $500 per trip for meals, lodging, and necessities when common carrier delays exceed 6 hours on trips booked with Platinum Card
Get reimbursed up to $300 per item and $1,000 per year when merchants refuse to accept returns on eligible purchases within 90 days
Get secondary coverage up to $3,000 per person for lost or damaged baggage when traveling on paid common carrier tickets booked with Platinum Card
Get an additional year of warranty protection on eligible purchases with original manufacturer warranties of 5 years or less at no extra cost
Get 24/7 emergency assistance for medical referrals, legal help, translation services, and lost document support when traveling 100+ miles from home
- We do find Amex travel a higher quality of service over the Chase travel portal.
Before applying for any personal American Express card, be aware of two specific rules:
1. You can only receive the sign-up bonus on each Amex card once every 10 years.
2. To be eligible for all potential bonuses, you must apply in this order: Green --> Gold --> Platinum. (If you start with the Platinum, you cannot later receive the bonuses for the Green or Gold).
All Amex personal cards count toward your 5/24 status, so keep that in mind.
- The Green Card is the entry-level personal card, though it still has a $150 annual fee. It often has a 40,000-point sign-up bonus, and its standout benefit is a $199 Clear credit, which can more than cover its annual fee. Whether it’s worth getting depends on your 5/24 status and how you value the bonus and benefits.
- The Gold Card is the next step, with a $325 annual fee and a 100,000-point welcome bonus. It also provides several credits and perks related to dining and groceries.
Amex does not currently impose the same “card order” rule on its business cards, making them a good option if you are close to 5/24. The annual fees, welcome bonuses, and other benefits on these business cards are similar to their personal counterparts, allowing you to start collecting American Express Membership Rewards without affecting your 5/24 count. However, the once-per-lifetime bonus rule still applies to business cards, so keep that in mind as well.
I enjoyed the Amex Platinum and got solid value from the welcome offer and the credits. The Uber and airline perks were helpful, and I appreciated the Centurion Lounge experience. But as time went on, I found the Chase Sapphire Reserve was simply a better fit for how I personally travel and redeem points.
The Chase portal’s simplicity, the 1.5x redemption boost, and the ability to pool points from multiple no-annual-fee cards gave me more flexibility. While Amex Platinum delivers luxury, the Sapphire Reserve delivers more consistent value for my day-to-day and travel lifestyle—so after the first year, I moved on.
$120 Global Entry/TSA PreCheck
$120
Annual
Get reimbursed for Global Entry, TSA PreCheck, or NEXUS application fees with automatic statement credit
$100 Saks Fifth Avenue
$100
Annual
Get $50 every six months to use at Saks Fifth Avenue stores or online with no minimum purchase required
Get reimbursed up to $500 per trip for meals, lodging, and necessities when common carrier delays exceed 6 hours on trips booked with Platinum Card
Get reimbursed up to $300 per item and $1,000 per year when merchants refuse to accept returns on eligible purchases within 90 days
Get secondary coverage up to $3,000 per person for lost or damaged baggage when traveling on paid common carrier tickets booked with Platinum Card
Get an additional year of warranty protection on eligible purchases with original manufacturer warranties of 5 years or less at no extra cost
Get 24/7 emergency assistance for medical referrals, legal help, translation services, and lost document support when traveling 100+ miles from home
- We do find Amex travel a higher quality of service over the Chase travel portal.
Before applying for any personal American Express card, be aware of two specific rules:
1. You can only receive the sign-up bonus on each Amex card once every 10 years.
2. To be eligible for all potential bonuses, you must apply in this order: Green --> Gold --> Platinum. (If you start with the Platinum, you cannot later receive the bonuses for the Green or Gold).
All Amex personal cards count toward your 5/24 status, so keep that in mind.
- The Green Card is the entry-level personal card, though it still has a $150 annual fee. It often has a 40,000-point sign-up bonus, and its standout benefit is a $199 Clear credit, which can more than cover its annual fee. Whether it’s worth getting depends on your 5/24 status and how you value the bonus and benefits.
- The Gold Card is the next step, with a $325 annual fee and a 100,000-point welcome bonus. It also provides several credits and perks related to dining and groceries.
Amex does not currently impose the same “card order” rule on its business cards, making them a good option if you are close to 5/24. The annual fees, welcome bonuses, and other benefits on these business cards are similar to their personal counterparts, allowing you to start collecting American Express Membership Rewards without affecting your 5/24 count. However, the once-per-lifetime bonus rule still applies to business cards, so keep that in mind as well.
I enjoyed the Amex Platinum and got solid value from the welcome offer and the credits. The Uber and airline perks were helpful, and I appreciated the Centurion Lounge experience. But as time went on, I found the Chase Sapphire Reserve was simply a better fit for how I personally travel and redeem points.
The Chase portal’s simplicity, the 1.5x redemption boost, and the ability to pool points from multiple no-annual-fee cards gave me more flexibility. While Amex Platinum delivers luxury, the Sapphire Reserve delivers more consistent value for my day-to-day and travel lifestyle—so after the first year, I moved on.
