Head to head

American Express Gold Card vs. Chase Sapphire Reserve

On the criteria below, Chase Sapphire Reserve wins 3 of 4. The verdict depends on which criteria matter to you.

American Express Gold Card

Amex

Chase

At a glance

Chase Sapphire Reserve wins 3 of 4 criteria here, making it the stronger all-rounder.

American Express Gold Card wins on annual fee; Chase Sapphire Reserve wins on first-year math, earning ceiling, and lounge access.

Pick the Chase Sapphire Reserve if year-one math is your priority; take the American Express Gold Card if you want a cheaper card to keep long-term.

1 vs 3

First-year math Chase Sapphire Reserve

Chase Sapphire Reserve wins on bonus value minus annual fee.
Annual fee American Express Gold Card

American Express Gold Card is $470 cheaper to keep.
Earning ceiling Chase Sapphire Reserve

Chase Sapphire Reserve earns more on its best category (8× vs 5×).
Lounge access Chase Sapphire Reserve

Chase Sapphire Reserve includes lounge access; the other doesn't.

Annual fee: $325; $795
Welcome offer (typical value): $1,600; $2,550
First-year net: +$1,275; +$1,755
Peak earning rate: 5×; 8×
Top categories: Dining Worldwide, U.S. Supermarkets, Prepaid Hotels; Chase Travel, Flights Direct, Hotels Direct
Lounge access: No; chase-sapphire-lounge, priority-pass
Travel insurance: Yes; Yes
Elite status: Yes; Yes
Foreign transaction fee: None; None
Reward currency: American Express Membership Rewards; Chase Ultimate Rewards

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