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American Express credit cards offer high-value rewards programs and some of the most generous perks in the industry. The Amex lineup has options for everyday shoppers, luxury travelers, small business owners and more. Check out the best cards offered by our partner American Express to see which Amex credit card is the best for you.
Our writers, editors and industry experts score
credit cards based on a variety of factors
including card features, bonus offers
and independent research. Credit card issuers have
no say or influence on how we rate cards.
See if you're pre‐approved for this card with
CardMatch™
Rewards rate
6%
6% Cash Back at U.S. supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year in purchases (then 1%).
6%
6% Cash Back on select U.S. streaming subscriptions.
3%
3% Cash Back on transit including taxis/rideshare, parking, tolls, trains, buses and more.
3%
3% Cash Back at U.S. gas stations
1%
1% Cash Back on other purchases
Intro offer
$250
Earn a $250 statement credit after you spend $3,000 in purchases on your new Card within the first 6 months.
Annual fee
$0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95.
Regular APR
17.74%-28.74% Variable
Recommended credit
Good to Excellent (670 - 850)
A FICO score/credit score is used to represent the creditworthiness of a person and may be one indicator to the credit type you are eligible for. However, credit score alone does not guarantee or imply approval for any financial product.
The Blue Cash Preferred Card from American Express now offers one of the best cash back rewards structures on the market. With high rewards rates on popular spending categories like U.S supermarkets and select U.S. streaming subscriptions, families will really be able to maximize cash back rewards with this card.
The base reward program is uber-lucrative, making this card a good choice for people looking for long-term value.
There is a 0 percent intro APR offer on purchases and balance transfers with this card for 12 months (then 17.74 percent to 28.74 percent variable APR).
Cons
Purchases at wholesale clubs, superstores (like Walmart), and specialty stores (bakeries, farmers markets, etc.) are excluded from the card’s U.S. supermarket bonus category and only earn 1 percent back.
You cannot redeem your cash back earnings as a direct deposit or check.
Earn a $250 statement credit after you spend $3,000 in purchases on your new Card within the first 6 months.
$0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95.
Buy Now, Pay Later: Enjoy $0 intro plan fees when you use Plan It® to split up large purchases into monthly installments. Pay $0 intro plan fees on plans created during the first 12 months after account opening. Plans created after that will have a monthly plan fee up to 1.33% of each eligible purchase amount moved into a plan based on the plan duration, the APR that would otherwise apply to the purchase, and other factors.
Low intro APR: 0% for 12 months on purchases from the date of account opening, then a variable rate, 17.74% to 28.74%
6% Cash Back at U.S. supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year in purchases (then 1%).
6% Cash Back on select U.S. streaming subscriptions.
3% Cash Back at U.S. gas stations and on transit (including taxis/rideshare, parking, tolls, trains, buses and more).
1% Cash Back on other purchases.
Thinking about getting The Disney Bundle which includes Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN+? Your decision made easy with $7/month back in the form of a statement credit after you spend $13.99 or more each month on an eligible subscription with your Blue Cash Preferred Card. Enrollment required.
Cash Back is received in the form of Reward Dollars that can be redeemed as a statement credit.
Our writers, editors and industry experts score
credit cards based on a variety of factors
including card features, bonus offers
and independent research. Credit card issuers have
no say or influence on how we rate cards.
See if you're pre‐approved for this card with
CardMatch™
Rewards rate
4X
Earn 4X Membership Rewards® Points at Restaurants, plus takeout and delivery in the U.S.
4X
Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points at U.S. supermarkets (on up to $25,000 per calendar year in purchases, then 1X).
3X
Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points on flights booked directly with airlines or on amextravel.com.
Intro offer
60,000 points
Earn 60,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $4,000 on eligible purchases with your new Card within the first 6 months of Card Membership.
Annual fee
$250
Regular APR
19.74%-26.74% Variable
Recommended credit
Good to Excellent (670 - 850)
A FICO score/credit score is used to represent the creditworthiness of a person and may be one indicator to the credit type you are eligible for. However, credit score alone does not guarantee or imply approval for any financial product.
The American Express Gold Card is a top-flight travel card that offers high rewards rates on key spending categories like U.S. supermarkets and restaurants. These facets make it a great option to use for everyday spending. It also comes with unique features, like a dining credit (terms apply), and the now available option of fashion rose gold, which adds to its already considerable value.
This card does not charge foreign transaction fees.
The points you earn with this card do not expire for the life of the account.
Cons
There is a $250 annual fee to hold this card.
There are no intro APR offers on purchases or balance transfers.
Earn 60,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $4,000 on eligible purchases with your new Card within the first 6 months of Card Membership.
Earn 4X Membership Rewards® Points at Restaurants, plus takeout and delivery in the U.S., and earn 4X Membership Rewards® points at U.S. supermarkets (on up to $25,000 per calendar year in purchases, then 1X).
Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points on flights booked directly with airlines or on amextravel.com.
$120 Uber Cash on Gold: Add your Gold Card to your Uber account and each month automatically get $10 in Uber Cash for Uber Eats orders or Uber rides in the U.S., totaling up to $120 per year.
$120 Dining Credit: Satisfy your cravings and earn up to $10 in statement credits monthly when you pay with the American Express® Gold Card at Grubhub, The Cheesecake Factory, Goldbelly, Wine.com, Milk Bar and select Shake Shack locations. Enrollment required.
Choose the color that suits your style. Gold or Rose Gold.
Our writers, editors and industry experts score
credit cards based on a variety of factors
including card features, bonus offers
and independent research. Credit card issuers have
no say or influence on how we rate cards.
See if you're pre‐approved for this card with
CardMatch™
Rewards rate
3%
3% Cash Back at U.S. supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year in purchases, then 1%.
3%
3% Cash Back on U.S. online retail purchases, on up to $6,000 per year, then 1%.
3%
3% Cash Back at U.S. gas stations, on up to $6,000 per year, then 1%.
1%
1% Cash Back on other purchases.
Intro offer
$250
Earn up to $250 - Here's How: Earn up to $150 back when you shop with PayPal. Earn 20% back as a statement credit on purchases when you use your new Card to check out with PayPal at merchants in the first 6 months of Card Membership, up to $150 back. Plus, earn $100 back as a statement credit after you spend $2,000 in purchases on your new Card in the first 6 months of Card Membership.
Annual fee
$0
Regular APR
17.74%-28.74% Variable
Recommended credit
Good to Excellent (670 - 850)
A FICO score/credit score is used to represent the creditworthiness of a person and may be one indicator to the credit type you are eligible for. However, credit score alone does not guarantee or imply approval for any financial product.
If you're looking for maximum rewards for no annual fee the Blue Cash Everyday card should be on your list. The card offers the best cash back returns rates on categories you're probably already spending highly in like U.S. supermarkets and U.S. gas stations. A flat-rate 1 percent back on other purchases means that you always know you're getting rewarded for your purchases.
This card offers an intro APR on purchases and balance transfers (0 percent intro APR for 15 months then 17.74 percent to 28.74 percent variable).
This card does not charge an annual fee.
Cons
There is a 2.7 percent foreign transaction fee.
There is a cap on the 3 percent cash back rate at U.S. supermarkets (up to $6,000 annually, then 1 percent).
Earn up to $250 - Here's How: Earn up to $150 back when you shop with PayPal. Earn 20% back as a statement credit on purchases when you use your new Card to check out with PayPal at merchants in the first 6 months of Card Membership, up to $150 back. Plus, earn $100 back as a statement credit after you spend $2,000 in purchases on your new Card in the first 6 months of Card Membership.
No Annual Fee.
Balance Transfer is back! Enjoy 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months from the date of account opening. After that, 17.74% - 28.74% variable APR.
3% Cash Back at U.S. supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year in purchases, then 1%.
3% Cash Back on U.S. online retail purchases, on up to $6,000 per year, then 1%.
3% Cash Back at U.S. gas stations, on up to $6,000 per year, then 1%.
Get $7 back each month after using your Blue Cash Everyday Card to spend $13.99 or more each month on an eligible subscription to The Disney Bundle, which includes Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN+. Enrollment required.
Our writers, editors and industry experts score
credit cards based on a variety of factors
including card features, bonus offers
and independent research. Credit card issuers have
no say or influence on how we rate cards.
Rewards rate
5X
Get 5X Membership Rewards® points on flights and prepaid hotels on amextravel.com
1.5X
Earn 1.5X points on eligible purchases at US construction material & hardware suppliers, electronic goods retailers and software & cloud system providers, and shipping providers, as well as on purchases of $5,000 or more everywhere else, on up to $2 million of these purchases per calendar year
1X
1X points for each dollar you spend on eligible purchases.
Intro offer
120,000 points
Welcome Offer: Earn 120,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $15,000 on eligible purchases with your Card within the first 3 months of Card Membership.
Annual fee
$695
Regular APR
17.99% - 25.99% Variable
Recommended credit
Good to Excellent (670 - 850)
A FICO score/credit score is used to represent the creditworthiness of a person and may be one indicator to the credit type you are eligible for. However, credit score alone does not guarantee or imply approval for any financial product.
Frequent business travelers can score premium travel benefits with this popular, though pricey American Express business card. Recent enhancements, including bonus rewards on key business categories and a business-centric annual statement credit (terms apply), also help owners maximize their spending.
This card boasts what is arguably the best airport lounge access on the market.
Cardholders enjoy an exceptional rewards return rate on travel booked through AmexTravel.com and for purchases of $5,000 or more.
Cons
The card touts one of the highest annual fees on the market ($695 each year).
Some of the credits and ancillary perks, including the private jet program, can be tricky to leverage.
Welcome Offer: Earn 120,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $15,000 on eligible purchases with your Card within the first 3 months of Card Membership.
Get 5X Membership Rewards® points on flights and prepaid hotels on amextravel.com, and 1X points for each dollar you spend on eligible purchases.
Earn 1.5X points (that’s an extra half point per dollar) on eligible purchases at US construction material & hardware suppliers, electronic goods retailers and software & cloud system providers, and shipping providers, as well as on purchases of $5,000 or more everywhere else, on up to $2 million of these purchases per calendar year.
Unlock over $1,000 in annual statement credits on a curation of business purchases, including select purchases made with Dell Technologies, Indeed, Adobe, and U.S. wireless service providers.
$200 Airline Fee Credit: Get up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year for checked baggage fees, lounge day passes, and more at one selected airline.
$189 CLEAR® Credit: Use your Card and get up to $189 back per year on your CLEAR® membership. CLEAR® is available at more than 50 U.S. airports and stadiums.
The American Express Global Lounge Collection® can provide an escape at the airport. With more than 1,400 airport lounges across 140 countries and counting, you have more lounge location options than any other credit card on the market as of 9/2021.
Our writers, editors and industry experts score
credit cards based on a variety of factors
including card features, bonus offers
and independent research. Credit card issuers have
no say or influence on how we rate cards.
Rewards rate
7X
Earn 7X Hilton Honors Bonus Points for each dollar of eligible purchases charged directly with hotels and resorts within the Hilton portfolio.
5X
Earn 5X Hilton Honors Bonus Points for each dollar of eligible purchases at U.S. restaurants, at U.S. supermarkets, and at U.S. gas stations.
3X
Earn 3X Hilton Honors Bonus Points for all other eligible purchases on your Card.
Intro offer
Earn 80,000 points
Earn 80,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points after you spend $1,000 in purchases on the Card in the first 3 months of Card Membership.
Annual fee
$0
Regular APR
19.49%-28.49% Variable
Recommended credit
Good to Excellent (670 - 850)
A FICO score/credit score is used to represent the creditworthiness of a person and may be one indicator to the credit type you are eligible for. However, credit score alone does not guarantee or imply approval for any financial product.
A great starter card for Hilton fans who want to dip their toe in the world of hotel rewards, the Hilton Honors American Express Card charges no annual fee and offers a generous rewards rate in practical spending categories. It also comes with complimentary Hilton Honors Silver elite status (enrollment required), which gets you perks like free Wi-Fi, late checkout and a free fifth night on any rewards booking.
Earning the intro bonus with this card can be fairly accessible.
Cons
There are no intro APR offers on purchases or balance transfers.
Points for travel must be redeemed through the loyalty program.
Earn 80,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points after you spend $1,000 in purchases on the Card in the first 3 months of Card Membership.
Earn 7X Hilton Honors Bonus Points for each dollar of eligible purchases charged directly with hotels and resorts within the Hilton portfolio.
Earn 5X Hilton Honors Bonus Points for each dollar of eligible purchases at U.S. restaurants, at U.S. supermarkets, and at U.S. gas stations.
Earn 3X Hilton Honors Bonus Points for all other eligible purchases on your Card.
No Foreign Transaction Fees. Enjoy international travel without additional fees on purchases made abroad.
Enjoy complimentary Hilton Honors Silver status with your Card. Plus, spend $20,000 on eligible purchases on your Card in a calendar year and you can earn an upgrade to Hilton Honors Gold status through the end of the next calendar year.
Our writers, editors and industry experts score
credit cards based on a variety of factors
including card features, bonus offers
and independent research. Credit card issuers have
no say or influence on how we rate cards.
Rewards rate
6X
Earn 6 Marriott Bonvoy points for each dollar of eligible purchases at hotels participating in the Marriott Bonvoy™ program.
3X
3 points at Worldwide Restaurants and on flights booked directly with airlines.
2X
2 points on all other eligible purchases.
Intro offer
150,000 points
Earn 150,000 Marriott Bonvoy® bonus points after you use your new Card to make $5,000 in purchases on the Card within the first 3 months.
Annual fee
$650
Regular APR
19.49%-28.49% Variable
Recommended credit
Good to Excellent (670 - 850)
A FICO score/credit score is used to represent the creditworthiness of a person and may be one indicator to the credit type you are eligible for. However, credit score alone does not guarantee or imply approval for any financial product.
The Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant American Express Card offers annual bonuses each card renewal year, plus a free night award after each card renewal month. These benefits, along with generous rewards rates, make it easy for frequent Marriott guests to stay as loyal to the card as they do to the hotel brand.
There are a variety of ways to redeem points with this card outside of hotel stays, including flights, cruises, merchandise and more.
Cons
This card has a hefty $650 annual fee.
There are no intro APR offers on purchases or balance transfers.
Earn 150,000 Marriott Bonvoy® bonus points after you use your new Card to make $5,000 in purchases on the Card within the first 3 months.
Each Card renewal year, get up to $300 in statement credits per calendar year (up to $25 per month) for eligible purchases at restaurants worldwide.
A Marriott Bonvoy Platinum Elite member will earn 50% more points on eligible purchases at participating hotels for each U.S. dollar or the currency equivalent that is incurred and paid for by the member.
Earn 6 Marriott Bonvoy points for each dollar of eligible purchases at hotels participating in the Marriott Bonvoy™ program. 3 points at Worldwide Restaurants and on flights booked directly with airlines. 2 points on all other eligible purchases.
Marriott Brilliant Free Night Award: Receive 1 Free Night Award every year after your Card renewal month. Award can be used for one night (redemption level at or under 85,000 Marriott Bonvoy points) at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy®. Certain hotels have resort fees.
Each calendar year after spending $60,000 on eligible purchases, Card Members are eligible to select an Earned Choice Award benefit. Benefit options include: Five (5) Suite Night Awards, 85K Free Night Award, and mattress and box spring $750 discount from Marriott Bonvoy Boutiques.
$100 Luxury Property Credit: Enjoy your stay. Receive up to a $100 property credit for qualifying charges at The Ritz-Carlton® or St. Regis® when you book direct using a special rate for a two-night minimum stay using your Card.
Fee Credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck®: Receive either a statement credit every 4 years after you apply for Global Entry ($100) or a statement credit every 4.5 years after you apply for a five-year membership through any Authorized Enrollment Provider for TSA PreCheck® (up to $85) when you pay the application fee with an eligible Card. If approved for Global Entry, at no additional charge, you will receive access to TSA PreCheck.
Each calendar year you can receive 25 Elite Night Credits toward the next level of Marriott Bonvoy Elite status. Limitations apply per Marriott Bonvoy member account. Benefit is not exclusive to Cards offered by American Express. Terms apply.
Enroll in Priority Pass Select, which offers unlimited access to over 1,200 lounges in over 130 countries, regardless of which carrier or class you are flying. This allows you to relax before or between flights. You can enjoy snacks, drinks, and internet access in a quiet, comfortable location.
Enjoy unlimited airport lounge visits when you enroll in Priority Pass™ Select membership.
No Foreign Transaction Fees on international purchases.
Cell phone protection: You can be reimbursed for your costs to repair or replace your damaged or Stolen cell phone up to $800, subject to a $50 deductible, for 2 approved claims per 12-month period when your prior month's wireless bill was paid utilizing an Eligible Card Account. Terms and conditions apply. Coverage is provided by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company.
Our writers, editors and industry experts score
credit cards based on a variety of factors
including card features, bonus offers
and independent research. Credit card issuers have
no say or influence on how we rate cards.
Rewards rate
2X
Earn 2X Miles on Delta purchases, at restaurants worldwide, including takeout and delivery in the U.S. and at U.S. supermarkets.
1X
Earn 1X Mile on all other eligible purchases.
Intro offer
40,000 Miles
Earn 40,000 bonus miles after you spend $2,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months.
Annual fee
$0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $99
Regular APR
19.49%-28.49% Variable
Recommended credit
Good to Excellent (670 - 850)
A FICO score/credit score is used to represent the creditworthiness of a person and may be one indicator to the credit type you are eligible for. However, credit score alone does not guarantee or imply approval for any financial product.
The Delta SkyMiles Gold American Express Card gets you bonus miles in a number of everyday spending categories, and you shouldn’t have much trouble earning the first-year welcome bonus.
Our writers, editors and industry experts score
credit cards based on a variety of factors
including card features, bonus offers
and independent research. Credit card issuers have
no say or influence on how we rate cards.
Rewards rate
3X
Earn 3X Miles on Delta purchases.
1X
Earn 1X Mile on all other eligible purchases.
Intro offer
50,000 miles
Earn 50,000 bonus miles and 10,000 Medallion® Qualification Miles (MQMs) after you spend $5,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months.
Annual fee
$550
Regular APR
19.49%-28.49% Variable
Recommended credit
Good to Excellent (670 - 850)
A FICO score/credit score is used to represent the creditworthiness of a person and may be one indicator to the credit type you are eligible for. However, credit score alone does not guarantee or imply approval for any financial product.
This card comes loaded with luxury perks, and you can unlock even more if you spend enough to reach a higher tier of Medallion elite status. Highlights include complimentary Delta Sky Club on a Delta flight and Centurion Lounge access on a Delta flight and an annual round-trip companion certificate that’s valid for domestic first class and Comfort+ fares upon renewal of your Delta SkyMiles Reserve American Express Card (See terms and conditions for details).
You can redeem miles to book hotels, airfare, rental cars and more.
There are over 20 Delta partner airlines where you can redeem miles.
Cons
This card has a $550 annual fee.
The annual card spending requirement for the Status Boost and MQD waiver can prove to be a lot for some at $30,000+ a year.
Earn 50,000 bonus miles and 10,000 Medallion® Qualification Miles (MQMs) after you spend $5,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months.
Earn up to 60,000 Medallion® Qualification Miles (MQMs) With Status Boost® per year. You can earn 15,000 MQMs after you spend $30,000 in purchases on your Card in a calendar year, up to four times per year getting you closer to Medallion® Status.
Receive a domestic First Class, Delta Comfort+® or domestic Main Cabin round trip companion certificate each year upon renewal of your Card. Payment of the government imposed taxes and fees of no more than $80 for roundtrip domestic flights (for itineraries with up to four flight segments) is required. Baggage charges and other restrictions apply. See terms and conditions for details.
Complimentary access into the Delta Sky Club® for you when travelling on a Delta flight.
Enjoy complimentary access to The Centurion® Lounge when you book a Delta flight with your Reserve Card.
Fee Credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck® after you apply through any Authorized Enrollment Provider. If approved for Global Entry, at no additional charge, you will receive access to TSA PreCheck.
Enjoy your first checked bag free on Delta flights.
Our writers, editors and industry experts score
credit cards based on a variety of factors
including card features, bonus offers
and independent research. Credit card issuers have
no say or influence on how we rate cards.
See if you're pre‐approved for this card with
CardMatch™
Rewards rate
5X
Earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points for flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year.
5X
Earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel.
Intro offer
Earn 80,000 points
Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $6,000 on purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.
Annual fee
$695
Regular APR
See Pay Over Time APR
Recommended credit
Good to Excellent (670 - 850)
A FICO score/credit score is used to represent the creditworthiness of a person and may be one indicator to the credit type you are eligible for. However, credit score alone does not guarantee or imply approval for any financial product.
Traveling in style gets a whole lot easier with this luxury travel card. Stocked with top-tier travel benefits, bountiful yearly credits and some of the best airport lounge access available, the Platinum Card from American Express will check most boxes for the frequent traveler who lives for luxury.
The wealth of annual credits alone have a value that could almost recoup the annual fee if used to their full potential.
The card has over 19 travel partners that further expand the value of your travel rewards.
Cons
These luxury benefits come at a hefty price with an annual fee of $695.
You're limited on where you get your top bonuses, as travel must be booked through Amex directly for the highest returns.
Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $6,000 on purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Apply and select your preferred metal Card design: classic Platinum Card®, Platinum x Kehinde Wiley, or Platinum x Julie Mehretu.
Earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points for flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year and earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel.
Get $200 back in statement credits each year on prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts® or The Hotel Collection bookings, which requires a minimum two-night stay, through American Express Travel when you pay with your Platinum Card®.
$240 Digital Entertainment Credit: Get up to $20 back each month on eligible purchases made with your Platinum Card® on one or more of the following: Audible, Disney+, The Disney Bundle, ESPN+, Hulu, Peacock, SiriusXM, and The New York Times. Enrollment required.
$155 Walmart+ Credit: Cover the cost of a $12.95 monthly Walmart+ membership with a statement credit after you pay for Walmart+ each month with your Platinum Card. Cost includes $12.95 plus applicable local sales tax. Plus Ups are excluded.
American Express has expanded The Centurion® Network to include 40+ Centurion Lounge and Studio locations worldwide. There are even more places your Platinum Card® can get you complimentary entry and exclusive perks.
$200 Airline Fee Credit: Get up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year in baggage fees and more at one select qualifying airline.
$200 Uber Cash: Enjoy Uber VIP status and up to $200 in Uber savings on rides or eats orders in the US annually. Uber Cash and Uber VIP status is available to Basic Card Member only.
Get up to $300 back per calendar year on the Equinox+ digital fitness app, or eligible Equinox club memberships when you pay with your Platinum Card. Enrollment required. Learn more.
Breeze through security with CLEAR® lanes available at 100+ airports, stadiums, and entertainment venues and get up to $189 back per calendar year on your membership when you use your Card. Learn more.
$695 annual fee.
Terms Apply.
additional features
Purchase intro APR
N/A
Balance transfer intro APR
N/A
The information about the Honors American Express Surpass® Card, American Express Cash Magnet® Card and American Express® Green Card has been collected independently by Bankrate.com. The card details have not been reviewed or approved by the card issuer. Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by Amex Assurance Company.
Compare Bankrate’s top picks for best American Express credit cards
A closer look at Bankrate’s top American Express cards
Blue Cash Preferred Card from American Express: Best cash back card for families
What we love about the Blue Cash Preferred: This card boasts one of the best cash back rewards rates on U.S supermarket purchases and a similarly lucrative rate on U.S. streaming services.
Who this card is good for: Big families with hefty grocery bills, subscriptions to multiple streaming services and high gas budgets.
Alternatives: The Blue Cash Preferred has an annual fee of $95 ($0 intro annual fee for the first year). If you’re searching for a no-annual-fee card that provides a solid cash back rate consider an alternative. The Blue Cash Everyday Card from American Express is a no-annual-fee option in exchange for a slightly lower cash back rate.
American Express Gold Card: Best for restaurants and U.S. supermarket rewards
What we love about the American Express Gold: You can get the best of both worlds when it comes to food and this card. You’ll have high cash back rates on both restaurant and U.S. supermarket purchases.
Who this card is good for: Foodies who want to turn meal purchases into travel rewards.
Alternatives: A $250 annual fee is steep for some. If you’re looking for a card with a similar emphasis on dining and grocery store purchases, a no-annual-fee option is the Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card. This alternative adds in a high cash back rate on certain entertainment purchases while forgoing the focus on travel-related rewards.
Blue Cash Everyday Card from American Express: Best for cash back and no annual fee
What we love about the Blue Cash Everyday: This card is a well-rounded and affordable option for those with high spending in the gas and groceries budget categories. There’s also a unique rewards tier for department store purchases to appeal to those who need a little extra retail therapy.
Who this card is good for: Frugal homemakers who may not want to pay an annual fee, but will still benefit from the decent rewards rates on gas, groceries, clothes and other home needs from the local department store.
Alternatives: If you’re willing to spend more to get more, the Blue Cash Preferred offers higher rewards rates on similar spending categories for a $95 annual fee ($0 intro annual fee for the first year). You’ll easily recoup this fee if you maximize your spending in top categories. For anyone who wants to cast a wider net on what purchases earn the most cash back, the Citi Custom Cash℠ Card offers similar rates of cash back for your top eligible spending category each billing cycle.
The Business Platinum Card from American Express: Best business card for travel
What we love about the Business Platinum card: You definitely get what you pay for with this big business card. It’s chock full of valuable annual credits and opens access to some of the best luxury travel lounges around, all while rewarding top business expenses like electronic goods and hardware supplies.This card is built for established businesses, whether online, brick and mortar or both.
Who this card is good for: Frequent business travelers who want the height of luxury and comfort on their trips.
Alternatives: Luxury travel and high returns come at premium prices with this business card. If top-tier travel rewards are your main draw outside of the business-related perks, you may consider the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card as a middle ground choice. You could earn even higher rewards returns when booking through Capital One Travel, and your base rewards rate, which could comprise of business-related purchases, may also be a bit more lucrative. You’d still get some lounge access, though not as widespread as what comes with the Business Platinum, and you’d get all of these perks for a slightly more reasonable $395 annual fee.
Hilton Honors American Express Card: Best Hilton card with no annual fee
What we love about the Hilton Honors card: This Hilton hotel card has a wide range of eligible spending categories that earn rewards, making it easy to run up points for hotel stays with purchases that fit easily into your daily budget.
Who this card is good for: Hilton hotel loyalists who want to rack up hotel rewards with everyday spending.
Alternatives: Not everyone’s hotel of choice is a Hilton, and you may want more flexibility when it comes to your reward redemption options. For anyone who wants more redemption wiggle room and a decent rewards rate on travel purchases (including hotel purchases) without having to be loyal to one brand, the Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card is one such card that still skips the annual fee.
Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant American Express Card: Best for annual bonuses
What we love about the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant: This Marriott hotel card lets you earn big not only with eligible hotel purchases, but also on restaurants worldwide and flights booked directly with your airline of choice. You can also redeem your rewards for travel expenses outside of your hotel stays, including flights and rental cars.
Who this card is good for: Marriott loyalists committed to making the most out of annual bonuses and the Bonvoy loyalty program.
Alternatives: A general-purpose travel card with no or a low annual fee could give you much more flexibility and affordability when it comes to how you redeem your Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant rewards. The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card offers comparable rewards rates on hotel and car rental purchases made through Capital One Travel with a much more palatable $95 annual fee.
Delta SkyMiles Gold American Express Card: Best Delta card for value travelers
What we love about the Delta SkyMiles Gold: The travel benefits, like a first checked bag free on Delta flights, and the easily recouped annual fee of $99 ($0 intro annual fee) are just a few things to write home about with the Delta SkyMiles Gold.
Who this card is good for: Infrequent Delta travelers who spend handsomely on food and gas.
Alternatives: If you’re not locked into Delta as your airline of choice, general-purpose travel cards are a safer bet with a little more flexibility. The Citi Premier® Card will get you competitive rewards rates on non-travel purchases that can fuel travel rewards for just a few dollars less of an annual fee and the freedom to choose where and how you redeem.
Delta SkyMiles Blue American Express Card: Best Delta card with no annual fee
What we love about the Delta SkyMiles Blue: The welcome offer on this card is lucrative and easy to attain for a no annual fee airline card. You’ll also enjoy travel reward earnings for dining purchases, including takeout and delivery in the U.S., usually a large spending category for young travelers.
Who this card is good for: Travel beginners and Delta loyalists alike will find a good place to start with this airline card.
Alternatives: Even with no annual fee and a fairly straightforward tiered rewards structure, some people may want an even more hands-free travel card with a bit more room to explore outside of Delta airlines. The Discover it® Miles has a decent base rewards rate on all purchases and no annual fee. There’s also the Discover Match program, which will match the number of miles you earn at the end of your first year with the card.
Delta SkyMiles Reserve American Express Card: Best for Delta Medallion members
What we love about the Delta SkyMiles Reserve: One of the best parts about this card is its expedited pathway to elite Medallion Status, which can earn you the highest level of Delta travel rewards perks like unlimited complimentary upgrades and priority boarding.
Who this card is good for: Luxury Delta loyalists who don’t mind a big price tag or high spending requirements to earn maximum benefits.
Alternatives: The Platinum Card from American Express offers similar high-dollar rewards and benefits for a slightly higher annual fee. The main difference comes with the fact that you won’t be confined to Delta airlines with the Platinum card.
The Blue Business Plus Credit Card from American Express: Best for business perks with no annual fee
What we love about the Blue Business Plus: The highest rewards tier on this card are not limited by particular spending categories, making it ideal for businesses that cast a wide net on purchase needs. Your only limit is a spending cap for your top rewards tier, but that cap is generous at up to $50,000 for 2X points per year, then 1X points.
Who this card is good for: Small-business owners who want travel rewards without paying an annual fee.
Alternatives: Finding a competitive travel business card with no annual fee can be a bit difficult, but not impossible. If you want to skip on the spending caps and the annual fee, the Bank of America® Business Advantage Unlimited Cash Rewards Mastercard® credit card offers a solid (and unlimited) 1.5 percent base rewards rate on all purchases anywhere, including travel-related and business expenses.
American Express Blue Business Cash Card: Best for business startups
What we love about the American Express Blue Business Cash: The card’s Expanded Buying Power feature gives you space to cover an unexpected expense that may push you over your card’s credit limit, a unique extension of purchasing power new businesses may not often have access to.
Who this card is good for: Business startups that want low-hassle, flat-rate cash back.
Alternatives: The Blue Business card boasts no annual fee and a good flat-rate rewards option, but might be held back by its spending cap. If you don’t mind taking on a reasonable annual fee, the Capital One Spark Cash Plus offers unlimited 2 percent rewards on all purchases with no spending caps.
The Platinum Card from American Express: Best for large welcome offer
What we love about the Platinum Card: Some of the most lucrative travel benefits and rewards rates on the market, the most premium lounge access across the world and high-dollar annual credits will ensure cardholders have the most luxe travel experience.
Who this card is good for: International travelers looking for a top-of-the-line travel experience.
Alternatives: The annual credits on this card can get very niche, making the inflated annual fee questionable for anyone who won’t make the most out of all the extras they’re paying for. The Chase Sapphire Reserve and the Capital One Venture X are the two strongest competitors alongside the Platinum card. Both cards have lower annual fees and lounge access, though not as extensive as the Platinum, and skip out on some of the extra specific benefits in favor of flexibility and affordability.
American Express began as a freight-forwarding business in 1850 and has since grown to be one of the largest credit card issuers in the world. The J.D. Power 2021 Credit Card Satisfaction Study ranked American Express first in customer satisfaction among credit card issuers. American Express, also known as Amex, is both a payment processing network and a credit card issuer, meaning that Amex issues credit cards to consumers and facilitates transactions with merchants through its network. Networks, which include Visa, Mastercard and Discover as well as American Express, make money by taking a cut of each transaction they process. Many, but not all, American Express credit cards are both issued by American Express and part of the American Express payment network.
The J.D. Power 2021 Credit Card Satisfaction Study ranked American Express first in customer satisfaction among credit card issuers. It scored 838 on a scale of 1,000, followed by Discover coming in second (837).
The company offers cards for consumers, travelers, small businesses and corporations. American Express also offers other financial products and services including savings accounts and certificates of deposit (CDs).
Where is Amex accepted?
American Express is accepted at 99 percent of U.S. merchants that accept credit cards, and at over 66 million businesses worldwide. This acceptance rate means that it’s extremely likely you won’t have any trouble with an American Express card’s acceptance on your travels abroad or at home.
Bankrate Insight
Before applying for one of its credit cards, check to see if you can be preapproved by American Express. You can get pre-screened ahead of time to see if you’ll be approved and you get the benefit of avoiding a hard pull on your credit report. Bankrate’s CardMatch tool can be a great way to get started on finding a likely fit.
What credit cards does American Express offer?
American Express cards run the gamut of both business- and consumer-class cards, so it’s extremely possible to find one of the best Amex cards to add to your wallet. Here are some of the credit cards American Express offers:
Cash back credit cards
American Express cash back credit cards offer elevated rates on bonus categories that make it easy for everyday spenders to earn plenty of rewards on their core shopping needs. Its sibling Blue Cash cards are frequently touted as two of the best cash back cards for families due to their high cash back earning in grocery categories.
Editor’s choice: Blue Cash Everyday Card from American Express
Co-branded credit cards
Amex partners with hotel brands Hilton and Marriott, as well as Delta Air Lines, to offer a suite of credit cards with each brand. These cards come with varying tiers of annual fees, so low-cost travelers and luxury travelers alike will likely find a card that suits their needs for their next trip.
Editor’s choice: Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant American Express Card
Luxury travel cards
For jetsetters who like to travel with all the bells and whistles, American Express provides the credit cards to accompany them. With travel-related statement credits and elevated earning rates on travel, American Express has positioned itself as a luxe brand in the world of travel credit cards.
Editor’s choice: The Platinum Card from American Express
Business credit cards
Among Amex’s business credit cards is something for every business. Whether you’re running a start-up, freelancing full-time or heading up an enterprise, American Express has a lineup of cards that can help earn points and run a business.
Editor’s choice: The Business Platinum Card from American Express
Bankrate Insight
Through AmexTravel.com, cardholders can book travel with points earned through the Membership Rewards program and even take advantage of some added benefits. You can earn a percentage of your points back when redeeming on the website or earn at boosted rates when using the Amex travel portal with select cards like The Platinum Card, Gold Card and more.
Pros and cons of American Express credit cards
Pros
Wide consumer base: With cards for cash back, airlines, hotels, general travel, supermarkets, businesses and more, American Express provides a variety of options for nearly all types of consumers.
Loyalty perks: American Express has connections with some of the top hotel and airline brands in the world, giving the opportunity for loyal customers to get extra rewards through their credit card.
Affordable options available: American Express offers multiple no annual fee options that still provide rewards and welcome offers.
Cons
High annual fees: Some of Amex’s best credit cards come with a steep annual fee. Although the rewards available with these cards can make it worthwhile, this can lead to some hesitance and eliminate some potential cardholders.
Limited redemption opportunity: Some Amex cards only offer statement credits, which can restrict how you choose to receive and spend your money.
High approval threshold: The majority of Amex’s options require a good-to-excellent credit score to be approved.
How the Amex Membership Rewards program works
Some cardholders are eligible for the Membership Rewards loyalty program. You can earn points through purchases and qualifying Amex Offers. Benefits of Amex Offers include discounts, cash back and additional Membership Rewards points. However, Amex Offers vary by card, cardholders must activate to qualify and limits and expiration dates may apply.
Membership Rewards points can be redeemed for travel, shopping, statement credits, gift cards, charitable donations and more. Cardholders can transfer Membership Rewards rewards points to American Express hotel and airline partners or use points to book through AmexTravel.com (there may be fees associated with transferring points).
Once you’re ready to redeem your Membership Rewards points, you may notice that the value of those points changes depending on how they’re redeemed. If you redeem them for cash, they typically have a 1-cent value. However, you may be able to squeeze more value out of them if you transfer them to a partner loyalty program with Delta or Aeromexico.
According to Bankrate’s latest valuation, American Express Membership Rewards points are worth an average of 2.1 cents per point, making them one of the more high-value rewards points. If you were to amass 50,000 Membership Rewards points, it would be worth about $1,050.
If you were to spend only in the bonus categories to score maximum rewards rates, here’s how much you’d earn in American Express’s rewards program with two of its top rewards-earning consumer cards:
American Express Gold Card
The Platinum Card from American Express
Rewards structure
4X points at restaurants, take out and delivery in the U.S.
4X points at U.S. supermarkets (on up to $25,000 per calendar year in purchases, then 1X).
3X points on flights booked directly with airlines or on AmexTravel.com.
5X points for flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year.
5X points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel.
Spending example
$8,000 on groceries and dining** x 4 points x $0.021 = $672
$1,300 on airfare* x 3 points x $0.021 = $82
$1,300 on airfare* x 5 points x $0.021 = $136
$600 on hotels** x 5 points x $0.021 = $63
Perks and credits
+$120 (Uber Cash provided as $10 monthly credits that expire at the end of the month)
+$120 (Dining credits per year on eligible purchases)
+$100 (Experience credits with The Hotel Collection offer when you book two consecutive nights or more through the Amex Travel Portal)
+$200 (Annual airline fee credits at one select qualifying airline)
+$25 (TSA PreCheck/Global Entry application credit; up to $100 every four years)
Any of the Amex cards on the page can add value to your wallet, but deciding on the very best American Express card for you requires answering some key questions:
No two American Express credit cards are exactly the same or offer the same perks. There are several American Express cards with perks that are great for and designed with small business owners specifically. By figuring out what you need from your card—like higher rewards rates for business travel—you can decide if a card like the Blue Business Plus card is right for you.
If you want to earn cash back for your purchases, you need to decide which type is best. Whether flat-rate cash back or bonus category cash back is better for you all depends on your needs. Searching for simplicity? Your best bet is a flat-rate cash back card like the Cash Magnet card.If you’re hoping to earn elevated rewards in specific categories, your first step should be determining what categories you spend most heavily in. For frequent flyers loyal to a specific airline, like Delta, Delta SkyMiles Gold card is likely the best choice. People who spend heavily in other categories like groceries or dining out have plenty of options as well.
American Express offers cards that can benefit many different types of travelers. If your travel is business-focused, consider the Business Platinum. If you’re a leisure traveler, The Platinum Card can provide you with excellent travel benefits (though those benefits come at a premium cost). Determining what’s important to you while you travel is essential to help you narrow your choices.
Still unsure if an American Express credit card is right for you? Check out our Credit Card Spender Type Tool where you can get personalized credit card recommendations based on your credit score, spending habits and daily needs.
Are American Express credit cards worth it?
Many of American Express’s best credit card perks and benefits come with annual fees, so you have to be willing to use every bit of value and statement credit from your card to make it worth it. These perks include dining credits, TSA Precheck or Global Entry credits, gym memberships, hotel credits and Uber credits for using your Amex card for certain purchases. These credits, plus the ongoing value of many cards make Amex cards more than worth it. However, if you don’t want to fork out hundreds or more for an annual fee, there are still a couple of American Express credit cards with no annual fee that still earn respectable rates on purchases.
How we chose our top American Express credit cards
Bankrate’s personal finance experts have evaluated the top American Express cards according to our 5-point rating system. The list of criteria for rating credit cards includes:
Rewards
Whether the card offers cash back, travel points/miles or multi-purpose rewards for eligible purchases and the potential returns based on rewards rate (1 percent cash back per $1 spent, 1 mile per $1 spent, and so on).
Perks and benefits
Whether the card offers extras such as retail discounts, extended warranties on purchases, travel insurance and financial management tools.
Annual fee
Whether the card charges an annual fee and if so, how much the card’s overall value and benefits might offset the fee.
Introductory offers
Whether the card has a welcome offer or similar sign-up incentive and how much it adds to the card’s overall value.
Variable APR
How the card’s annual percentage rate (APR) compares with current averages as an indicator of cost and value.
Foreign transaction fee
Whether the card charges a foreign transaction fee for purchases that require a currency conversion and how the fee affects the card’s overall value.
Have more questions for our credit cards editors? Feel free to send us an email, find us on Facebook, or Tweet us @Bankrate.
Frequently asked questions about American Express credit cards
Amex has a slightly higher interchange fee than other networks like Visa and Mastercard. As a result, some merchants opt out of paying the higher fee, resulting in a lower acceptance of American Express cards.
According to the company's 2020 Annual Report, by year's end American Express had:
Maintained approximately 99 percent acceptance among U.S. merchants that accept credit cards
Added 3.7 million merchants in international markets
Received approval to begin operating in China and entered card-issuing agreements with 16 Chinese banks
Amex generally requires cardholders to have good or excellent credit to qualify. However, one option is opening an Amex card that can help with credit building, like the Blue from American Express® Credit Card.
The information about the Blue from American Express Credit Card has been collected independently by Bankrate.com. The card details have not been reviewed or approved by the card issuer.
The recommended score to apply for an Amex credit card is good to excellent, ranging from 670 to 850 on the FICO scale.
No. There are Amex cards that don’t charge an annual fee at all or that have $0 introductory annual fees for the first year. Cards with the most premium benefits will likely have annual fees.
Joey Robinson is a credit cards contributor for Bankrate and upon graduating with a Bachelor’s degree concentrated in Finance, Joey worked at “Big Four” (Ernst and Young) accounting firm before exploring the world of credit cards. Over the past two years, he’s shared his expertise and has brought understanding to complex topics as a writer and editor...
Mariah Ackary is a personal finance editor who joined the Bankrate team in 2019, excited by the opportunity to help people make good financial decisions. Send your questions to mackary@bankrate.com
* See the online application for details about terms and conditions for these offers. Every reasonable effort has been made to maintain accurate information. However all credit card information is presented without warranty. After you click on the offer you desire you will be directed to the credit card issuer's web site where you can review the terms and conditions for your selected offer.
Editorial Disclosure: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, and have not been reviewed or approved by any advertiser. The information, including card rates and fees, is accurate as of the publish date. All products or services are presented without warranty. Check the bank’s website for the most current information.
Advertiser Disclosure
Bankrate.com is an independent, advertising-supported comparison service. The offers that appear on this site are from companies from which Bankrate.com receives compensation. This compensation may impact how and where products appear on this site, including, for example, the order in which they may appear within listing categories. Other factors, such as our own proprietary website rules and the likelihood of applicants' credit approval also impact how and where products appear on this site. Bankrate.com does not include the entire universe of available financial or credit offers. Bankrate has partnerships with issuers including, but not limited to, American Express, Bank of America, Capital One, Chase, Citi and Discover.
