The Platinum Card from American Express vs. Chase Sapphire Reserve
On the criteria below, Chase Sapphire Reserve wins 2 of 3. The verdict depends on which criteria matter to you.
The Platinum Card from American Express
Amex
Chase Sapphire Reserve
Chase
Chase Sapphire Reserve wins 2 of 3 criteria here, making it the stronger all-rounder.
The Platinum Card from American Express wins on first-year math; Chase Sapphire Reserve wins on annual fee and earning ceiling.
Pick the The Platinum Card from American Express if year-one math is your priority; take the Chase Sapphire Reserve if you want a cheaper card to keep long-term.
Who wins what
1 vs 2- First-year math The Platinum Card from American Express
The Platinum Card from American Express wins on bonus value minus annual fee.
- Annual fee Chase Sapphire Reserve
Chase Sapphire Reserve is $100 cheaper to keep.
- Earning ceiling Chase Sapphire Reserve
Chase Sapphire Reserve earns more on its best category (8× vs 5×).
By the numbers
- Annual fee
- $895
- $795
- Welcome offer (typical value)
- $2,800
- $2,550
- First-year net
- +$1,905
- +$1,755
- Peak earning rate
- 5×
- 8×
- Top categories
- Flights, Prepaid Hotels
- Chase Travel, Flights Direct, Hotels Direct
- Lounge access
- centurion, delta-sky-club, priority-pass
- 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.