The Platinum Card from American Express vs Smith's Rewards World Elite Mastercard®

A detailed side-by-side comparison to help you choose the right card for your spending.

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The Platinum Card from American Express

American Express

Smith's Rewards World Elite Mastercard®

U.S. Bank

Annual Fee

$895

Welcome Bonus

80,000 Flex point

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Base Earn Rate

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Top Earn Categories

5X Hotels

5X Flights

1X Hotels

5X Digital Wallet

5X Kroger Pay

2X Kroger

Network

AMEX

MASTERCARD

Key Benefits

✓Lounge access

✓Travel insurance

✓Global Entry credit

None

Pros

+Access to 9 lounge networks including exclusive Centurion Lounges with 2 guests free
+$200/year Uber credit plus complimentary Uber One membership ($168 value)
+$400/year Resy dining credit at select restaurants
+Automatic Marriott Gold and Hilton Gold status with room upgrades and breakfast
+5X points on flights booked direct or via Amex Travel

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Cons

−$895 annual fee requires significant credit utilization to break even
−Many credits require specific merchants (Saks, Equinox, SoulCycle)
−Only 1X points on non-travel purchases limits everyday earning
−Secondary car rental coverage unless paying $24.95/rental for primary
−$195 authorized user fee after first 3 free cards

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The Bottom Line

The Smith's Rewards World Elite Mastercard® has a lower annual fee ($0 vs $895), making it the more accessible option.

The The Platinum Card from American Express justifies its higher fee with premium perks like lounge access.

Explore More

The Platinum Card from American Express — Full Review All American Express Cards

Smith's Rewards World Elite Mastercard® — Full Review All U.S. Bank Cards

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The Platinum Card from American Express vs Smith's Rewards World Elite Mastercard®

A detailed side-by-side comparison to help you choose the right card for your spending.

No image