Head to head

American Express Green 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 Green Card

Amex

Chase Sapphire Reserve

Chase

At a glance

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

American Express Green 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 Green Card if you want a cheaper card to keep long-term.

Who wins what

1 vs 3
  • First-year math Chase Sapphire Reserve

    Chase Sapphire Reserve wins on bonus value minus annual fee.

  • Annual fee American Express Green Card

    American Express Green Card is $645 cheaper to keep.

  • Earning ceiling Chase Sapphire Reserve

    Chase Sapphire Reserve earns more on its best category (8× vs 3×).

  • Lounge access Chase Sapphire Reserve

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

By the numbers

Annual fee
$150
$795
Welcome offer (typical value)
$640
$2,550
First-year net
+$490
+$1,755
Peak earning rate
Top categories
Dining Worldwide, Transit, Travel
Chase Travel, Flights Direct, Hotels Direct
Lounge access
No
chase-sapphire-lounge, priority-pass
Travel insurance
Yes
Yes
Elite status
No
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.