11 Best American Express Credit Cards

Jodie Price

By Jodie Price | Updated September 15, 2025

American Express offers a wide range of credit cards designed to match different spending habits, travel goals, and lifestyle needs. The best American Express credit cards provide strong rewards, valuable perks, and flexible redemption options that can deliver real value. There is a credit card for nearly every financial strategy, from premium travel cards with airport lounge access to basic cash back cards for daily purchases.

  • The Platinum Card® from American Express

    The Platinum Card® from American Express is a premium travel rewards card designed for frequent travelers who value luxury perks. It offers extensive airport lounge access, travel credits, and strong rewards on travel purchases.

    Cardholders can access a wide range of partner benefits, including hotel status upgrades and exclusive event invitations. It focuses on enhancing the travel experience rather than everyday spending.

    Earning Structure:

    • 5x Membership Rewards® points on flights booked directly with airlines or through Amex Travel
    • 5x points on prepaid hotels booked through Amex Travel
    • 1x point on other eligible purchases

    Welcome Bonus:
    Earn up to 175,000 Membership Rewards® points after spending $8,000 in eligible purchases within the first 6 months of card membership (offer may vary).

    Card Details:

    • Annual fee: $695
    • Foreign transaction fees: None
    • APR: 20.24%–29.24% variable
    • Other perks: $200 Hotel Credit, $240 Digital Entertainment Credit, Global Lounge Collection access, Walmart+ credit, $200 Airline Fee Credit, $200 Uber Cash, $199 CLEAR® Plus Credit, Global Entry/TSA PreCheck® credit, $100 Saks Fifth Avenue credit, Global Dining Access by Resy (enrollment required for select benefits)

    Key Benefits:

    • Access to over 1,400 airport lounges worldwide
    • Complimentary elite status with Hilton and Marriott
    • Multiple annual travel and lifestyle credits
    • Premium concierge service for reservations and travel planning

    Redemption Options:
    Points can be redeemed for travel, gift cards, statement credits, or transferred to airline and hotel partners for more value.

    Credit Requirements:
    Applicants generally need good to excellent credit, with a FICO score of at least 670.

    Spending Limitations / Potential Drawbacks:
    High annual fee; bonus rewards mainly limited to airfare and hotel purchases.

    Why it Works for Beginners:
    It can help new travelers maximize rewards on flights and hotels while learning to use premium travel perks effectively.

  • The Business Platinum Card® from American Express

    The Business Platinum Card® from American Express is designed for business owners who want premium travel perks and flexible rewards. It focuses on delivering value through travel credits, airport lounge access, and strong earning rates in specific categories.

    It offers tools that can help manage expenses, track spending, and redeem rewards efficiently. This makes it appealing to frequent travelers and companies with high travel and business expenses.

    Earning Structure:

    • 5x points on flights and prepaid hotels booked through Amex Travel
    • 1.5x points on eligible purchases in select business categories and large transactions over a set amount
    • 1x point on other eligible purchases

    Welcome Bonus:
    Earn 150,000 Membership Rewards® points after spending $20,000 in eligible purchases within the first 3 months.

    Card Details:

    • Annual fee: $695
    • APR: 18.49%–29.24% variable
    • Foreign transaction fees: None
    • Benefits include: $200 Airline Fee Credit, $120 Global Entry or up to $85 TSA PreCheck® credit, $150 Dell Technologies credit + $1,000 Dell bonus credit with qualifying spend, $250 Adobe credit, up to $200 Hilton For Business credit, Fine Hotels & Resorts and The Hotel Collection access, International Airline Program, Cruise Privileges Program, up to $209 CLEAR® Plus Credit (enrollment required for select benefits)

    Key Benefits:

    • Complimentary access to over 1,400 airport lounges worldwide
    • Elite status with Hilton and Marriott
    • Valuable annual business and travel credits
    • Premium booking programs for hotels and cruises

    Redemption Options:
    Points can be redeemed for travel, gift cards, statement credits, or transfers to airline and hotel partners.

    Credit Requirements:
    Good to excellent credit is typically required, with a FICO score starting at 670.

    Spending Limitations / Potential Drawbacks:
    The high annual fee may not be cost-effective for businesses with low travel spending.

    Why it Works for Beginners:
    It offers straightforward earning categories and easy redemption through Amex Travel, making it simple for new business cardholders to use effectively.

  • Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express

    The Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express focuses on rewarding everyday spending, especially in categories like groceries and streaming services. It is designed for people who want high cash back rates in common household spending areas.

    It works well for families and individuals who spend more on essentials and recurring bills. The card also includes access to Amex’s customer service and purchase protection benefits.

    Earning Structure:

    • 6% cash back at U.S. supermarkets (on up to $6,000 per year, then 1%)
    • 6% cash back on select U.S. streaming subscriptions
    • 3% cash back at eligible U.S. gas stations and on transit (including taxis/rideshare, parking, tolls, trains, buses, and more)
    • 1% cash back on other purchases

    Welcome Bonus:
    Earn a $250 statement credit after spending $3,000 in eligible purchases within the first 6 months.

    Card Details:

    • Annual fee: $0 intro for the first year, then $95 after
    • APR: 20.24%–29.24% variable
    • Foreign transaction fees: 2.7%
    • Additional perks: Amex Offers access, Plan It® payment option, $10 monthly Disney+, Hulu, or ESPN+ credit (enrollment required)

    Key Benefits:

    • High cash back rates in essential spending categories
    • Purchase protection and extended warranty coverage
    • Car rental loss and damage insurance

    Redemption Options:
    Cash back is received as Reward Dollars, redeemable for statement credits or at Amazon.com checkout.

    Credit Requirements:
    Typically suited for applicants with good to excellent credit, with a FICO score of at least 670.

    Spending Limitations / Potential Drawbacks:
    The supermarket bonus has an annual spending cap, and some bonus categories exclude certain merchants.

    Why it Works for Beginners:
    Clear bonus categories and a straightforward redemption process make it easy to maximize rewards without complex tracking.

  • American Express® Business Gold Card

    The American Express® Business Gold Card is designed for small business owners who want flexible rewards and targeted bonus categories. It automatically adjusts to reward the categories where the business spends the most each month.

    This card works well for companies with variable expenses, as it does not require manual category selection. It offers travel and purchase protections that can add value for frequent business spending.

    Earning Structure:

    • 4x Membership Rewards® points on the top two eligible categories where your business spends the most each month (on up to $150,000 in combined purchases per calendar year, then 1x after)
    • 3x Membership Rewards® points on flights and prepaid hotels booked on AmexTravel.com
    • 1x point on all other purchases

    Welcome Bonus:
    Earn 100,000 Membership Rewards® points after spending $15,000 in eligible purchases within the first 3 months.

    Card Details:

    • Annual fee: $375
    • APR: 18.49%–29.24% variable
    • Foreign transaction fees: None
    • Additional perks: Up to $240 annually in FedEx, Grubhub, and Office Supply Store credits; up to $12.95 monthly Walmart+ credit (enrollment required); available in Gold, Rose Gold, and White Gold metal designs

    Key Benefits:

    • Flexible 4x bonus categories that adjust automatically each billing cycle
    • Bonus points on eligible travel bookings
    • Monthly statement credits for select merchants

    Redemption Options:
    Points can be redeemed for travel, gift cards, statement credits, or merchandise through the Membership Rewards® program.

    Credit Requirements:
    Typically requires good to excellent credit, with a FICO score of at least 670.

    Spending Limitations / Potential Drawbacks:
    High annual fee and better suited for businesses with significant spending in bonus categories.

    Why it Works for Beginners:
    Automatic category selection makes earning rewards simple without manual tracking.

  • American Express® Gold Card

    The American Express® Gold Card is a rewards credit card designed for people who spend often on dining and groceries. It offers strong earning rates in these categories, making it appealing for everyday use.

    It also provides travel-related perks and access to Amex’s The Hotel Collection. These benefits can add extra value for cardholders who travel at least a few times a year.

    Earning Structure:

    • 4x Membership Rewards® points at restaurants worldwide (on up to $50,000 per year, then 1x after)
    • 4x Membership Rewards® points at U.S. supermarkets (on up to $25,000 per year, then 1x after)
    • 3x Membership Rewards® points on flights booked directly with airlines or on AmexTravel.com
    • 2x Membership Rewards® points on prepaid hotels and other eligible purchases booked on AmexTravel.com
    • 1x Membership Rewards® point on all other eligible purchases

    Welcome Bonus:
    Earn up to 100,000 Membership Rewards® points after spending $6,000 in eligible purchases within the first 6 months (offer may vary).

    Card Details:

    • Annual fee: $325
    • APR: 20.74%–29.74% variable
    • Foreign transaction fees: None
    • Additional perks: $120 Uber Cash, $84 Dunkin’ Credit, $100 Resy Credit, $120 Dining Credit, The Hotel Collection access with $100 property credit (enrollment required for select benefits)

    Key Benefits:

    • Strong rewards on dining and groceries
    • Multiple annual dining and lifestyle credits
    • Access to upscale hotels with on-site credit

    Redemption Options:
    Points can be redeemed for travel, gift cards, statement credits, or shopping with partners.

    Credit Requirements:
    Applicants need good to excellent credit, often starting around a 670 FICO score.

    Spending Limitations / Potential Drawbacks:
    Limited value for those who spend little on dining or U.S. supermarket purchases.

    Why it Works for Beginners:
    Clear rewards categories and easy-to-use statement credits make it simple to maximize value without complex management.

  • Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card

    The Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card is designed for travelers who often fly with Delta. It offers ways to earn miles on travel and everyday purchases. Cardholders can enjoy travel perks that make flying more convenient. It also provides benefits that can help reduce costs when flying with Delta.

    Earning Structure:

    • 2x miles on Delta purchases, at U.S. supermarkets, and at restaurants worldwide (including takeout and delivery in the U.S.)
    • 1x mile on all other eligible purchases

    Welcome Bonus:
    Earn 50,000 Bonus Miles after spending $2,000 in eligible purchases within the first 6 months.

    Card Details:

    • Annual fee: $0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $150 after
    • APR: 20.24%–29.24% variable
    • Foreign transaction fees: None
    • Additional perks: 15% off award travel on Delta flights, $200 Delta Flight Credit after $10,000 spend in a calendar year, $100 Delta Stays Credit, Pay with Miles option, 20% back on eligible in-flight purchases

    Key Benefits:

    • First checked bag free for you and up to eight companions
    • Priority boarding on Delta flights
    • Discounts on in-flight purchases

    Redemption Options:
    Miles can be redeemed for Delta flights, partner airline flights, seat upgrades, and some travel experiences.

    Credit Requirements:
    Good to excellent credit (FICO score starting at 690) is usually needed for approval.

    Spending Limitations / Potential Drawbacks:
    The best value comes from Delta purchases, so those who rarely fly Delta may not benefit as much.

    Why it Works for Beginners:
    Easy-to-understand earning and benefits make it a straightforward way for new Delta travelers to save on flights and travel extras.

  • The Blue Business® Plus Credit Card from American Express

    The Blue Business® Plus Credit Card from American Express is designed for small business owners who want to earn rewards on everyday purchases without tracking bonus categories. It offers a flat rewards rate on all eligible spending.

    This card also provides access to Amex’s business tools, expense management features, and purchase protections. It works well for businesses with steady monthly expenses across different categories.

    Earning Structure:

    • 2x Membership Rewards® points on the first $50,000 in eligible purchases each year
    • 1x Membership Rewards® point on all other eligible purchases after that

    Welcome Bonus:
    Earn 15,000 Membership Rewards® points after spending $3,000 in eligible purchases within the first 3 months.

    Card Details:

    • Annual fee: $0
    • APR: 17.49%–27.49% variable
    • Foreign transaction fees: 2.7%
    • Additional perk: Expanded Buying Power for purchases beyond the credit limit (amount varies based on account factors)

    Key Benefits:

    • No annual fee
    • Points can be transferred to 22 airline and hotel partners
    • Simple, flat rewards structure

    Redemption Options:
    Points can be redeemed for travel, gift cards, statement credits, or shopping with partners.

    Credit Requirements:
    Typically requires good to excellent credit, with a FICO score of at least 670 for approval.

    Spending Limitations / Potential Drawbacks:
    The 2x rate only applies to the first $50,000 in purchases each year.

    Why it Works for Beginners:
    Flat-rate earning with no annual fee makes it easy to collect points without managing multiple categories.

  • Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express

    The Blue Cash Everyday® Card is a straightforward cash back credit card designed for people who want rewards without complex rules. It works well for those who make regular purchases in common spending categories.

    It offers cash back rewards on everyday expenses, making it useful for families and individuals alike. The card focuses on simplicity, so cardholders can earn rewards without tracking rotating categories.

    Earning Structure:

    • 3% cash back at U.S. supermarkets (on up to $6,000 per year, then 1% after)
    • 3% cash back at U.S. gas stations (on up to $6,000 per year, then 1% after)
    • 3% cash back on U.S. online retail purchases (on up to $6,000 per year, then 1% after)
    • 1% cash back on other purchases

    Welcome Bonus:
    Earn a $200 statement credit after spending $2,000 in purchases within the first 6 months.

    Card Details:

    • Annual fee: $0
    • APR: 20.24%–29.24% variable
    • Foreign transaction fees: 2.7%
    • Additional perks: Amex Offers access, Plan It® payment option, $7 monthly credit for Disney+, Hulu, or ESPN+ subscriptions (enrollment required)

    Key Benefits:

    • No annual fee
    • Simple earning categories
    • Purchase protection and extended warranty coverage
    • Access to Amex Offers for extra savings

    Redemption Options:
    Cash back is received as Reward Dollars, redeemable for statement credits or at Amazon.com checkout.

    Credit Requirements:
    Typically suited for applicants with good to excellent credit, with a FICO score of at least 670.

    Spending Limitations / Potential Drawbacks:
    Bonus categories have annual spending caps, and foreign transaction fees apply.

    Why it Works for Beginners:
    Clear categories, no annual fee, and simple redemption make it easy for first-time cardholders to earn and use rewards.

  • Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card

    The Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card is designed for travelers who frequently fly with Delta Air Lines. It offers premium travel perks that focus on comfort, convenience, and faster progress toward elite status.

    Cardholders get access to exclusive benefits like Delta Sky Club entry and an annual companion certificate for select flights. It also provides priority travel services and benefits that help make flying more efficient.

    Earning Structure:

    • 3x miles per dollar on Delta purchases
    • 1x mile per dollar on all other purchases

    Welcome Bonus:
    Earn 70,000 Bonus Miles after spending $5,000 in eligible purchases within the first 6 months.

    Card Details:

    • Annual fee: $650
    • APR: 20.24%–29.24% variable
    • Foreign transaction fees: None
    • Additional perks: Delta Sky Club access (15 visits/year, unlimited after $75,000 annual spend), 4 guest passes annually, Centurion Lounge access when flying Delta, annual companion certificate, $2,500 Medallion Qualification Dollars (MQD) Headstart, MQD Boost, $240 Resy Credit, $120 Rideshare Credit, Global Entry/TSA PreCheck credit (enrollment required for select benefits)

    Key Benefits:

    • Complimentary Delta Sky Club access when flying Delta
    • Annual companion certificate for eligible domestic flights
    • Priority boarding and first checked bag free on Delta flights
    • Upgrade priority for Medallion Members
    • Access to Amex Centurion Lounge when flying Delta on same-day ticket

    Redemption Options:
    Miles can be redeemed for Delta flights, partner airline travel, seat upgrades, and vacation packages.

    Credit Requirements:
    Applicants typically need good to excellent credit, with a FICO starting at 690, for approval.

    Spending Limitations / Potential Drawbacks:
    Rewards outside Delta purchases are limited to 1x miles, which may not suit those with varied spending.

    Why it Works for Beginners:
    Ideal for new Delta loyalists ready to explore elite perks and maximize lounge access benefits.

  • Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card

    The Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card is designed for frequent Hilton guests who want premium travel perks. It offers automatic top-tier Hilton Honors Diamond status, which includes room upgrades, late checkout, and bonus points on stays.

    This card also provides valuable travel credits and benefits that can offset costs for frequent travelers. It focuses on maximizing rewards for Hilton stays while adding useful perks for flights and other travel expenses.

    Earning Structure:

    • 14x Hilton Honors points on eligible Hilton purchases
    • 7x points on flights booked directly with airlines or Amex Travel, car rentals, and U.S. restaurants
    • 3x points on all other purchases

    Welcome Bonus:
    Earn 150,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points after spending $6,000 in purchases within the first 6 months.

    Card Details:

    • Annual fee: $550
    • APR: 20.24%–29.24% variable
    • Foreign transaction fees: None
    • Additional perks: Complimentary Hilton Diamond status, annual free night reward, $400 Hilton Resort Credit, $200 Flight Credit, $209 CLEAR® Plus Credit, $100 property credit at Waldorf Astoria® and Conrad® Hotels, National Car Rental Emerald Club Executive® status (enrollment required for select benefits)

    Key Benefits:

    • Automatic Hilton Diamond status with enhanced hotel privileges
    • Up to $400 annual Hilton Resort Credit and $200 Flight Credit
    • Annual free night reward, plus additional free nights after meeting spend thresholds

    Redemption Options:
    Points can be redeemed for Hilton hotel stays, room upgrades, and experiences through the Hilton Honors program.

    Credit Requirements:
    Typically requires good to excellent credit (FICO score of 670–850) for approval.

    Spending Limitations / Potential Drawbacks:
    The card is most valuable for frequent Hilton guests.

    Why it Works for Beginners:
    Automatic elite status and high-value travel credits make it easy for new Hilton guests to unlock premium benefits right away.

  • American Express® Green Card

    The American Express® Green Card is a travel rewards card for those looking to earn points on daily and travel expenses. It offers flexible rewards and access to valuable travel perks.

    This card works well for those who want to earn Membership Rewards® points without committing to a premium travel card. It also provides useful benefits for both domestic and international travel.

    Earning Structure:

    • 3x Membership Rewards® points on travel, including airfare, hotels, cruises, tours, car rentals, campgrounds, and vacation rentals
    • 3x Membership Rewards® points on transit, including trains, taxicabs, rideshare services, ferries, tolls, parking, buses, and subways
    • 3x Membership Rewards® points on restaurants worldwide (including takeout and delivery in the U.S.)
    • 1x Membership Rewards® point on all other purchases

    Welcome Bonus:
    Earn 40,000 Membership Rewards® Points after spending $3,000 in eligible purchases within the first 6 months.

    Card Details:

    • Annual fee: $150
    • APR: 20.24%–28.24% variable
    • Foreign transaction fees: None
    • Additional perks: Annual CLEAR® Plus Credit, Annual LoungeBuddy Credit

    Key Benefits:

    • Statement credits for select travel and lifestyle purchases
    • Access to Amex Offers for extra savings
    • 24/7 customer service and purchase protection
    • Travel insurance benefits

    Redemption Options:
    Points can be redeemed for travel, gift cards, statement credits, or transfers to airline and hotel partners.

    Credit Requirements:
    Applicants generally need good to excellent credit, with a FICO score of 670 or higher.

    Spending Limitations / Potential Drawbacks:
    The annual fee may not be worth it for those who don’t travel often.

    Why it Works for Beginners:
    A straightforward earning structure and attainable welcome bonus make it easy for new cardholders to start earning rewards quickly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top benefits of the American Express Platinum Card?

The Platinum Card is ideal for frequent travelers seeking premium perks like airport lounge access and elite hotel status. It also includes annual statement credits for travel, dining, and lifestyle services. These benefits can easily outweigh the annual fee if used fully.

How does the American Express Gold Card compare to other rewards cards?

The Gold Card stands out for its high rewards on dining and groceries, making it a top choice for everyday spending. It also offers dining credits, travel perks, and no foreign transaction fees. For frequent diners and grocery shoppers, it delivers strong value without the higher annual fee of the Platinum Card.

Which American Express card offers the best value for frequent travelers?

The Platinum Card offers unmatched travel benefits with extensive lounge access, hotel perks, and annual travel credits. For those who travel often and maximize these features, it can provide exceptional value. The Gold Card is better suited for travelers who also prioritize dining and grocery rewards.

Are there any American Express cards with no annual fees that still offer good rewards?

Yes, the Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express offers 3% cash back in key categories like groceries, online shopping, and gas. It’s a strong option for moderate spenders who want rewards without extra costs. This makes it a practical everyday card for households.

How does the Amex Green Card stack up against other eco-friendly credit card options?

The Green Card earns 3x Membership Rewards® points on travel, transit, and dining worldwide. It includes credits for CLEAR® Plus and LoungeBuddy to enhance the travel experience. For frequent travelers, it’s a flexible mid-tier choice with solid earning potential.