Head to head

American Express Gold Card vs. IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card

On the criteria below, IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card wins 2 of 3. The verdict depends on which criteria matter to you.

American Express Gold Card

Amex

IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card

Chase

At a glance

IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card wins 2 of 3 criteria here, making it the stronger all-rounder.

American Express Gold Card wins on first-year math; IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card wins on annual fee and earning ceiling.

Pick the American Express Gold Card if year-one math is your priority; take the IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card if you want a cheaper card to keep long-term.

Who wins what

1 vs 2
  • First-year math American Express Gold Card

    American Express Gold Card wins on bonus value minus annual fee.

  • Annual fee IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card

    IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card is $226 cheaper to keep.

  • Earning ceiling IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card

    IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card earns more on its best category (10× vs 5×).

By the numbers

Annual fee
$325
$99
Welcome offer (typical value)
$1,600
$1,295
First-year net
+$1,275
+$1,196
Peak earning rate
10×
Top categories
Dining Worldwide, U.S. Supermarkets, Prepaid Hotels
Hotels Resorts, Dining, Gas
Lounge access
No
No
Travel insurance
Yes
Yes
Elite status
Yes
Yes
Foreign transaction fee
None
None
Reward currency
American Express Membership Rewards
IHG One Rewards

Welcome-offer dollar values use each program's typical-tier valuation from our signup bonus calculator. See the methodology page for sourcing details.