The Platinum Card from American Express vs. United Quest Card
Even split across the criteria below. Pick the one whose strengths match how you'll actually use it.
The Platinum Card from American Express
Amex
United Quest Card
Chase
The Platinum Card from American Express and United Quest Card split the criteria evenly. Neither is the obvious all-rounder; the right pick depends on which dimensions matter to you.
The Platinum Card from American Express wins on first-year math and lounge access; United Quest Card wins on annual fee and earning ceiling.
Pick the The Platinum Card from American Express if year-one math is your priority; take the United Quest Card if you want a cheaper card to keep long-term.
Who wins what
2 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 United Quest Card
United Quest Card is $545 cheaper to keep.
- Earning ceiling United Quest Card
United Quest Card earns more on its best category (10× vs 5×).
- Lounge access The Platinum Card from American Express
The Platinum Card from American Express includes lounge access; the other doesn't.
By the numbers
- Annual fee
- $895
- $350
- Welcome offer (typical value)
- $2,800
- $910
- First-year net
- +$1,905
- +$560
- Peak earning rate
- 5×
- 10×
- Top categories
- Flights, Prepaid Hotels
- Airfare, Travel, Hotels Resorts
- Lounge access
- centurion, delta-sky-club, priority-pass
- No
- Travel insurance
- Yes
- Yes
- Elite status
- Yes
- No
- Foreign transaction fee
- None
- None
- Reward currency
- American Express Membership Rewards
- United MileagePlus
Welcome-offer dollar values use each program's typical-tier valuation from our signup bonus calculator. See the methodology page for sourcing details.