Want a Metal Credit Card? Here Are 2 Great Options to Check Out in 2024

There are some key differences between carrying a metal credit card and a plastic one. And these can be pros or cons. As a personal example of the latter, it took me longer than it should have to figure out why my wallet suddenly started setting off metal detectors when I started carrying The Platinum Card® from American Express. But on the other hand, metal credit cards can be extremely durable and generally don't get worn out as fast.

There are more than 20 different metal credit cards available today. And while some are clearly meant to be "status symbols," some are tremendous financial products and warrant a closer look.

1. Lots of value for consumers who use the benefits

With a $695 annual fee, The Platinum Card® from American Express is one of the most expensive cards you can apply for (see rates and fees). But for the right consumer, it could be a tremendous bargain.

For starters, not only does the Amex Platinum Card come with a Priority Pass membership, but it also includes access to Delta Sky Club lounges and its own Centurion Lounge network (terms apply). It grants automatic elite status with Marriott Bonvoy, Hilton Honors, and a few rental car loyalty programs (enrollment required).

In addition, there are over $1,500 in annual spending credits available, including:

• $200 in Uber Cash toward rides or Uber Eats orders ($15 per month, $20 extra in December)
• $200 toward certain prepaid hotel bookings through Amex Travel
• $240 toward digital entertainment purchases ($20 per month)
• $200 toward incidentals on an airline of your choice
• $300 toward an Equinox fitness membership
• Terms apply; enrollment may be required

There are other credits and benefits, as well. The point is that just because it has a $695 price tag doesn't mean The Platinum Card® from American Express is "expensive."

2. A surprisingly valuable card with no annual fee

Not all metal credit cards have high prices of admission, and the Prime Visa is an example of one that has no annual fee at all (although it does require you to be an Amazon Prime member).

As you might expect, this isn't as feature-packed as the other two cards on the list. But it has an excellent rewards program that includes unlimited 5% back in Amazon rewards on purchases at Amazon.com, Amazon Fresh, and Whole Foods, as well as on Chase Travel purchases. You'll also get 2% back at gas stations, restaurants, and local transit, and 1% back on other purchases.

Metal cards have pros and cons

One key takeaway is that there's quite a bit of variety among metal credit cards. As of our latest count, there are 21 different metal cards offered by major U.S. card issuers, and the metal is largely just a material -- there are good metal credit cards, and others that aren't great products. It all depends on what perks are important to you and what your spending habits are.