The Platinum Card from American Express vs. Citi Strata Premier 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
Citi Strata Premier Card
Citi
The Platinum Card from American Express and Citi Strata Premier 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; Citi Strata Premier 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 Citi Strata Premier 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 Citi Strata Premier Card
Citi Strata Premier Card is $800 cheaper to keep.
- Earning ceiling Citi Strata Premier Card
Citi Strata Premier 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
- $95
- Welcome offer (typical value)
- $2,800
- $900
- First-year net
- +$1,905
- +$805
- Peak earning rate
- 5×
- 10×
- Top categories
- Flights, Prepaid Hotels
- Travel, Travel, Dining
- 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
- Citi ThankYou Points
Welcome-offer dollar values use each program's typical-tier valuation from our signup bonus calculator. See the methodology page for sourcing details.