American Express Gold Card vs. Wells Fargo Autograph Journey Card
Even split across the criteria below. Pick the one whose strengths match how you'll actually use it.
American Express Gold Card
Amex
Wells Fargo Autograph Journey Card
Wells Fargo
American Express Gold Card and Wells Fargo Autograph Journey Card split the criteria evenly. Neither is the obvious all-rounder; the right pick depends on which dimensions matter to you.
American Express Gold Card wins on first-year math; Wells Fargo Autograph Journey Card wins on annual fee.
Pick the American Express Gold Card if year-one math is your priority; take the Wells Fargo Autograph Journey Card if you want a cheaper card to keep long-term.
Who wins what
1 vs 1 (1 tie)- First-year math American Express Gold Card
American Express Gold Card wins on bonus value minus annual fee.
- Annual fee Wells Fargo Autograph Journey Card
Wells Fargo Autograph Journey Card is $230 cheaper to keep.
- Earning ceiling Tie
Same peak earning rate.
By the numbers
- Annual fee
- $325
- $95
- Welcome offer (typical value)
- $1,600
- —
- First-year net
- +$1,275
- $-95
- Peak earning rate
- 5×
- 5×
- Top categories
- Dining Worldwide, U.S. Supermarkets, Prepaid Hotels
- Hotels, Airlines, Dining
- Lounge access
- No
- No
- Travel insurance
- Yes
- Yes
- Elite status
- Yes
- No
- Foreign transaction fee
- None
- None
- Reward currency
- American Express Membership Rewards
- Wells Fargo Rewards
Welcome-offer dollar values use each program's typical-tier valuation from our signup bonus calculator. See the methodology page for sourcing details.