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Amex Platinum Card vs. Visa Infinite Cards [Premium Travel Card Comparison]

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It’s a common question: “Should I choose an American Express or a Visa card?” The question may be even more precise for frequent travelers who prefer a premium travel rewards card: “Should I choose The Platinum Card® from American Express or a Visa Infinite card?”

It’s a great question because both card options provide elevated rewards earnings, flexible redemption options, statement credits for select purchases, and premium travel insurance. These are all desirable card attributes that add bottom-line value for the cardholder.

Let’s discuss both card possibilities and why you might choose one over the other.

Amex Platinum Card vs. Visa Infinite Cards — Overview

Before we discuss the specific features and benefits of the Amex Platinum card and Visa Infinite cards, reviewing a quick side-by-side comparison can be helpful.

Here is how the cards compare overall:

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Feature or Benefit

The Platinum Card® from American Express

Visa Infinite Cards

Welcome offer

80,000 pointsThe Platinum Card® from American ExpressEarn 80,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $8,000 on eligible purchases on the Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.

Varies by card

Earning potential

1x-5x pointsThe Platinum Card® from American Express
  • Earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points for flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year
  • Earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel
  • Earn 1X Membership Rewards® Point on other purchases

Earning rates of flexible rewards points or frequent flyer miles vary by card

Top redemption options

Transfer points to airline and hotel partners, redeem for travel via AmexTravel.com

  • Transfer points to airline and hotel partners, redeem for travel via the cards’ proprietary travel portal
  • Airline-branded Visa Infinite cards earn frequent flyer miles

Top travel protections

  • Car rental loss and damage insurance
  • Trip cancellation/trip interruption
  • Trip delay
  • Baggage insurance plan
  • Premium Global Assist Hotline
  • Auto rental collision damage waiver
  • Trip cancellation/trip interruption
  • Trip delay
  • Lost luggage reimbursement
  • Baggage delay insurance
  • Travel Assistance Services

Top travel credits and benefits

  • Worldwide lounge access
  • Hotel loyalty program and car rental elite status upon enrollment
  • Fine Hotels + Resorts and The Hotel Collection benefits
  • Worldwide lounge access
  • Car rental program benefits including elite status upon enrollment
  • Visa Infinite Hotel Collection benefits

Top shopping protections

  • Purchase protection
  • Extended warranty
  • Return protection
  • Cell phone protection
  • Purchase security
  • Extended warranty
  • Return protection
  • Cell phone protection on some Visa Infinite cards

Top shopping credits

Various statement credits for specific purchases, enrollment may be required

Varies by card

Worldwide acceptance

  • 99% acceptance in U.S.
  • Accepted in 160+ countries
  • 99% acceptance in U.S.
  • Accepted in 200+ countries

Annual fee and authorized users

Varies by card

The Value of a Welcome Offer

Once approved for either the Amex Platinum card or a Visa Infinite card, you’ll have a unique opportunity to earn a welcome bonus by meeting minimum spending requirements within a specified period.

Amex Platinum Card

The Amex Platinum card is one of the best travel rewards cards, with premium features, benefits, travel insurance, and travel and shopping credits.

We value Membership Rewards points at approximately 2.2 cents each, making the welcome bonus offer an attractive way to accumulate significant travel funds quickly.

BEST LOUNGE ACCESS
The Platinum Card® from American ExpressTerms Apply / Rates & Fees
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U.P. Rating 
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the ins and outs of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

The Amex Platinum reigns supreme for luxury travel, offering the best airport lounge access plus generous statement credits, and complimentary elite status.

Apply Now(at Amex's secure site)

Apply With Confidence

Know if you're approved with no credit score impact

If you're approved and accept this Card, your credit score may be impacted.

The Amex Platinum reigns supreme for luxury travel, offering the best airport lounge access plus generous statement credits, and complimentary elite status.
Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $8,000 on eligible purchases on the Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.
80,000 points
Up to $1,760
$695
See Pay Over Time APR
Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.
Good to Excellent
Why We Like This Card

When it comes to cards that offer top-notch benefits, you’d be hard-pressed to find a better card out there than The Platinum Card® from American Express.

Make no mistake — the Amex Platinum card is a premium card with a premium price tag. With amazing benefits like best-in-class airport lounge access, hotel elite status, and tremendous value in annual statement credits, it can easily prove to be one of the most lucrative cards in your wallet year after year.

Pros & Cons
Pros
  • The best airport lounge access out of any card (by far) — enjoy access to over 1,400 worldwide lounges, including the luxurious Amex Centurion Lounges, Priority Pass lounges (enrollment required), Plaza Premium Lounges, and many more!
  • 5x points per dollar spent on flights purchased directly with the airline or with AmexTravel.com (up to $500,000 per year)
  • 5x points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels booked with AmexTravel.com
Cons
  • $695 annual fee (rates and fees)
  • Airline credit does not cover airfare (only incidentals like checked bags)
Card Highlights
  • Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $8,000 on eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.
  • Earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points for flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year and earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel.
  • $200 Hotel Credit: Get up to $200 back in statement credits each year on prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts® or The Hotel Collection bookings through American Express Travel using your Platinum Card®. The Hotel Collection requires a minimum two-night stay.
  • $240 Digital Entertainment Credit: Get up to $20 back in statement credits each month on eligible purchases made with your Platinum Card® on one or more of the following: Disney+, a Disney Bundle, ESPN+, Hulu, The New York Times, Peacock, and The Wall Street Journal. Enrollment required.
  • With American Express Global Lounge Collection® you can enjoy access to over 1,400 airport lounges globally, including The Centurion® Lounge, Unlimited Delta Sky Club® Access when flying an eligible Delta flight, Escape Lounges, Lufthansa Lounges when flying Lufthansa Group, Plaza Premium, Priority Pass™ Select Lounges, & Additional Global Lounge Collection Partner Lounges subject to visit limitations. Lounges may have their own rules, like additional access rules and guest fees, and for Priority Pass Select, you need to enroll and there are unlimited airport lounge visits for Card Members. With Delta Sky Club Access, Card Members will receive 10 Visits to the Delta Sky Club to be used from February 1 until January 31 of the next calendar year and can unlock Unlimited Delta Sky Club Access by spending $75,000 in eligible purchases on their Card in a calendar year. To find a lounge, visit the membership section in the American Express® App or visit http://www.americanexpress.com/findalounge#/loungefinder.
  • $155 Walmart+ Credit: Save on eligible delivery fees, shipping, and more with a Walmart+ membership. Use your Platinum Card® to pay for a monthly Walmart+ membership and get up to $12.95 plus applicable taxes back on one membership (excluding Plus Ups) each month.
  • $200 Airline Fee Credit: Select one qualifying airline and then receive up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year when incidental fees are charged by the airline to your Platinum Card®.
  • $200 Uber Cash: Platinum Card® Members can ride or dine in style with $15 in Uber Cash each month, plus a bonus $20 in December after adding their Card to their Uber account. Use your Uber Cash on rides and orders in the U.S. when you select an Amex Card for your transaction.
  • $199 CLEAR® Plus Credit: CLEAR® Plus helps to get you to your gate faster at 50+ airports nationwide and get up to $199 back per calendar year on your Membership (subject to auto-renewal) when you use your Card. CLEARLanes are available at 100+ airports, stadiums, and entertainment venues.
  • Receive either a $120 statement credit every 4 years for a Global Entry application fee or a statement credit up to $85 every 4.5 years for a TSA PreCheck® (through a TSA official enrollment provider) application fee, when charged to your Platinum Card®. Card Members approved for Global Entry will also receive access to TSA PreCheck at no additional cost.
  • Shop Saks with Platinum: Get up to $100 in statement credits annually for purchases in Saks Fifth Avenue stores or at saks.com on your Platinum Card®. That's up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.
  • Unlock access to exclusive reservations and special dining experiences with Global Dining Access by Resy when you add your Platinum Card® to your Resy profile.
  • $695 annual fee.
  • Apply with confidence. Know if you're approved for a Card with no impact to your credit score. If you're approved and you choose to accept this Card, your credit score may be impacted.
  • Terms Apply.
Financial Snapshot
  • APR: See Pay Over Time APR
  • Foreign Transaction Fees: None
Rewards Center

American Express Membership Rewards

Hot Tip: Check to see if you’re eligible for a welcome bonus offer of up to 125k (or 150k) points with the Amex Platinum. The current public offer is 80,000 points. (This targeted offer was independently researched and may not be available to all applicants.)

Visa Infinite Cards

Welcome offers for Visa Infinite cards vary depending on the card, but it’s common to find generous bonus offers on Visa Infinite cards.

Here are some of the best Visa Infinite cards and information on their most current welcome bonus offers.

Chase Sapphire Reserve®

The Chase Sapphire Reserve card is known for earning flexible Ultimate Rewards points that can be transferred to airline and hotel partners. The card comes with worldwide lounge access via a complimentary Priority Pass Select membership, a $300 travel statement credit each year, and excellent travel insurance benefits.

We value Ultimate Rewards points at approximately 2 cents each.

Chase Sapphire Reserve®
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U.P. Rating 
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the ins and outs of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

A top player in the high-end premium travel credit card space that earns 3x points on travel and dining while offering top luxury perks.

Apply Now(at Chase's secure site)
A top player in the high-end premium travel credit card space that earns 3x points on travel and dining while offering top luxury perks.
Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
60,000 points
$1,200
$550
21.49% - 28.49% Variable
Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.
Excellent (740-850)
Why We Like This Card

If you’re looking for an all-around excellent travel rewards card, the Chase Sapphire Reserve® is one of the best options out there.

The card combines elite travel benefits and perks like airport lounge access, with excellent point earning and redemption options.  Plus it offers top-notch travel insurance protections to keep you covered whether you’re at home or on the road.

Don’t forget the $300 annual travel credit which really helps to reduce the annual fee!

Pros & Cons
Pros
  • 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase TravelSM immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually
  • 10x points on Lyft purchases through March 31, 2025
  • 10x points on Peloton equipment and accessory purchases over $250 through March 31, 2025
Cons
  • $550 annual fee
  • Does not offer any hotel elite status
Card Highlights
  • Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
  • $300 Annual Travel Credit as reimbursement for travel purchases charged to your card each account anniversary year.
  • Earn 5x total points on flights and 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Travel℠ immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually. Earn 3x points on other travel and dining & 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases
  • Get 50% more value when you redeem your points for travel through Chase Travel℠. For example, 60,000 points are worth $900 toward travel.
  • 1:1 point transfer to leading airline and hotel loyalty programs
  • Access to 1,300+ airport lounges worldwide after an easy, one-time enrollment in Priority Pass™ Select and up to $120 application fee credit every four years for Global Entry, NEXUS, or TSA PreCheck®
  • Count on Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, Auto Rental Coverage, Lost Luggage Insurance and more.
  • Member FDIC
Financial Snapshot
  • APR: 21.49% - 28.49% Variable
  • Foreign Transaction Fees: None
Rewards Center

Chase Ultimate Rewards

The New United Club℠ Card

The United Club card provides cardholders complimentary United Club membership, elevated earnings on United, travel, and dining purchases, and free checked bags.

The card also comes with a generous welcome bonus offer that you can use to book award flights.

DEBUT OFFER
The New United Club℠ Card
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U.P. Rating 
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the ins and outs of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

Perfect for frequent United flyers who want premium perks like United Club access and free baggage benefits.

Apply Now(at Chase's secure site)
Perfect for frequent United flyers who want premium perks like United Club access and free baggage benefits.
Earn 95,000 bonus miles after you spend $5,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
95,000 miles
$1,140
$695
20.49% - 28.99% Variable
Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.
Excellent
Why We Like This Card

The New United Club℠ Card is a premium card designed for the most dedicated of United frequent flyers who are looking for a card that provides the opportunity to earn extra United MileagePlus miles and receive lounge access via a yearly United Club membership.

United frequent flyers will find that the United Club card provides an enhanced experience on their United flights thanks to the money saved on each flight and the conveniences it provides.

Pros & Cons
Pros
  • 4x miles per $1 on United purchases
  • 2x miles per $1 on travel and dining purchases
  • Complimentary United Club membership
Cons
  • $695 annual fee
  • Does not earn transferable rewards
Card Highlights
  • Debut Offer: Earn 95,000 bonus miles
  • 4x miles on United® purchases
  • 2x miles on dining and all other travel
  • 1x mile on all other purchases
  • United Club℠ membership - at least a $750 value
  • Free first and second checked bags - a savings of up to $360 per roundtrip (terms apply) - and Premier Access® travel services
  • Earn a 10,000-mile award flight discount after $20,000 in purchases - up to two times each calendar year
  • Member FDIC
Financial Snapshot
  • APR: 20.49% - 28.99% Variable
  • Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

The Capital One Venture X card earns flexible Capital One miles that can be transferred to more than 15 travel partners and redeemed for free travel. Cardholders who use Capital One Travel are rewarded with up to 10x miles and a $300 statement credit for Capital One Travel purchases each year.

A welcome offer on the Capital One Venture X card can typically be worth more than $1,000 when used for travel.

Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit CardTerms Apply / Rates & Fees
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U.P. Rating 
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the ins and outs of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

The Capital One Venture X card is an excellent option for travelers looking for an all-in-one premium credit card.

The Capital One Venture X card is an excellent option for travelers looking for an all-in-one premium credit card.
Earn 75,000 bonus miles when you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel.
75,000 miles
$1,350
$395
19.99% - 29.24% (Variable)
Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.
Excellent (740-840)
Why We Like This Card

The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card is the premium Capital One travel rewards card on the block.

Points and miles fans will be surprised to see that the Capital One Venture X card packs quite the punch when it comes to bookings made through Capital One, all while offering the lowest annual fee among premium credit cards.

Depending on your travel goals and preferences, the Capital One Venture X card could very well end up being your go-to card in your wallet.

 

Pros & Cons
Pros
  • 10x miles per $1 on hotels and rental cars purchased through Capital One Travel
  • 5x miles per $1 on flights and vacation rentals purchased through Capital One Travel
  • 2x miles per $1 on all other purchases
Cons
  • $395 annual fee (rates & fees)
  • Does not offer bonus categories for flights or hotel purchases made directly with the airline or hotel group, the preferred booking method for those looking to earn elite status
Card Highlights
  • Earn 75,000 bonus miles when you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel
  • Receive a $300 annual credit for bookings through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options
  • Get 10,000 bonus miles (equal to $100 towards travel) every year, starting on your first anniversary
  • Earn unlimited 10X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel and 5X miles on flights and vacation rentals booked through Capital One Travel
  • Earn unlimited 2X miles on all other purchases
  • Enjoy complimentary access to 1,300+ airport lounges worldwide, including Capital One Lounge locations and the Partner Lounge Network
  • Use your Venture X miles to easily cover travel expenses, including flights, hotels, rental cars and more—you can even transfer your miles to your choice of 15+ travel loyalty programs
  • Enjoy a $100 experience credit and other premium benefits with every hotel and vacation rental booked from the Premier Collection
  • Receive up to a $120 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck®
Financial Snapshot
  • APR: 19.99% - 29.24% (Variable)
  • Foreign Transaction Fees: None
Rewards Center

Capital One Miles

 

Bottom Line:

The Amex Platinum card and Visa Infinite cards come with generous welcome offers that can be earned after meeting minimum spending requirements in the specified period after card approval. Some of the best Visa Infinite cards include the Chase Sapphire Reserve card, United Club card, and Capital One Venture X card.

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Earning Potential

Amex Platinum vs Visa Infinite Upgraded Points 1
The Amex Platinum card and Visa Infinite cards earn well on select travel purchases. Image Credit: Upgraded Points

Earning rewards is a key factor when selecting a travel rewards card. Here’s an overview of how the Amex Platinum card and Visa Infinite cards earn rewards on every purchase.

The Amex Platinum card earns flexible and valuable Membership Rewards points. We’ll discuss redemption options shortly, but first, let’s examine how you earn Membership Rewards points. You can earn:

  • 5x points on flights purchased directly with the airline or via AmexTravel.com, up to $500,000 in purchases each year, and then 1x points
  • 5x points for prepaid hotel purchases via AmexTravel.com
  • 1x points for all other purchases

Visa Infinite cards can earn flexible reward points or frequent flyer miles (in the case of a co-branded airline Visa Infinite card). Earning rates vary, but you’ll generally find elevated earnings for travel and dining purchases.

Redemption Options

New Singapore Suites, A380
Redeeming flexible rewards for premium flight experiences, like Singapore Suites, offers the greatest potential value. Image Credit: Erin Miller

Transferring rewards to airline or hotel programs offers the best potential value for flexible rewards currency. Membership Rewards points earned on the Amex Platinum card can be used for premium flight experiences when transferred to travel partners.

For example, transferring Membership Rewards points to Singapore KrisFlyer is a great way to redeem them. With Singapore’s Star Alliance partners, you can book business class one-way to Africa for a safari, spending just 88,000 miles.

Or, if you prefer a suite, you can book the A380 first class in Singapore Suites from New York (JFK) to Singapore (SIN) for just 148,500 KrisFlyer miles and enjoy 18 hours of luxury.

With the exception of airline-branded cards, Visa Infinite cards can earn flexible, transferrable rewards. For example, the Chase Sapphire Reserve card and Capital One Venture X card have more than a dozen airline and hotel transfer partners.

The Amex Platinum card and Visa Infinite cards that earn flexible rewards offer the additional option of redeeming rewards via their proprietary travel portals, such as AmexTravel.com, Chase Travel, or Capital One Travel.

Additional redemption options include gift cards, statement credits, PayPal or Amazon checkout, and charitable donations.

Travel Protections, Benefits, and Credits

ORD Delta Sky Club
Delta Sky Club access is available to Amex Platinum card members, including the Delta Sky Club at Chicago O’Hare. Image Credit: Christine Krzyszton

Travel Protections

Travel protections can provide financial relief should something go wrong during your trip. Visa Infinite cards come with several travel protections that equal the level of protection provided with the Amex Platinum card.

However, there are key differences. Here’s how travel protections compare on our featured cards:

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Travel Protection

The Platinum Card® from American Express

Visa Infinite Cards

Car rental insurance

Secondary car rental loss and damage insurance with access to Premium Protection for one low price that covers the entire rental period

Primary auto rental collision damage waiver

Trip cancellation and trip interruption

Up to $10,000 per covered trip, $20,000 per eligible card when the trip is paid entirely with the card; terms apply

Included; coverage amounts and terms vary

Trip delay

Up to $500 per covered trip for eligble essential expenses when trip is delayed more than 6 hours

Baggage insurance

Coverage for lost, stolen, or damaged luggage when the entire fare is paid for with the card; terms and limits apply

  • Lost, stolen, or damaged luggage reimbursement; terms and limits apply
  • Baggage delay insurance If your checked baggage is delayed or misdirected for more than four hours; terms and limits apply

Emergency evacuation

Included; no stated limit

Included with limits on some Visa Infinite cards

Ride-share protection

N/A

Repair or replace covered personal items when lost, damaged, or destroyed during covered ride-share trip; terms and limits apply

Travel assistance

Premium Global Assist Hotline

Travel and Emergency Assistance Services phone line

The Amex Platinum card and Visa Infinite cards offer similar travel insurance benefits with some exceptions. Although inexpensive, you must purchase American Express Premium Protection to receive primary car rental insurance.

Emergency evacuation insurance with the Amex Platinum card has no stated limit, while there may be no coverage or coverage with limits with Visa Infinite cards.

Travel Benefits

Travel benefits can make your trip more comfortable and even save you money. Here are the travel benefits on the Amex Platinum card and Visa Infinite cards:

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Travel Benefit

The Platinum Card® from American Express

Visa Infinite Cards

Airline benefits

Worldwide lounge access to 1,400+ properties via American Express Global Lounge Collection

Worldwide lounge access via Priority Pass membership, or card-affiliated lounges such as Chase Sapphire Lounges, Capital One Lounges, or United Clubs

Hotel benefits

Visa Infinite Luxury Hotel Collection, Capital One Premier Collection, or The Edit by Chase Travel benefits (depending on card), which include room upgrades, an experience credit, free breakfast, and more

Rental car program benefits

Avis Preferred Plus status, Hertz Gold Plus President’s Circle status, and National Emerald Club Executive status; enrollment required

Common benefits include car rental discounts with Avis, Hertz, and National, Avis Preferred Plus status, and National Emerald Club Execuitve status; enrollment required

The Amex Platinum card offers the broadest lounge access, including exclusive Centurion Lounge access and the Delta Sky Club for same-day Delta travelers. Visa Infinite cards can provide lounge access when Priority Pass Select membership is offered or the card is affiliated with an issuer that provides a lounge network.

For example, the Chase Sapphire Reserve card has access to Sapphire Lounge by The Club, the Capital One Venture X card has access to Capital One Lounges, and the United Club card has access to United Clubs.

We have not included all travel protections and benefits and have abbreviated any descriptions, terms, and conditions. For detailed information, access the specific card’s guide to benefits.

Bottom Line:

The Amex Platinum card has the edge for travel benefits, including broader lounge access and elite status in the hotel loyalty programs. The Amex Platinum card and Visa Infinite cards each offer benefits with luxury hotel collections and rental car loyalty programs.

Travel Credits

The Amex Platinum card and Visa Infinite cards offer statement credits for specific travel-related purchases.

Travel statement credits vary on Visa Infinite cards depending on the card issuer. Here are the statement credits you can expect on the Amex Platinum card and typical credits you might find on a Visa Infinite card.

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Statement Credit

Amex Platinum Card

Typical Visa Infinite Card Benefit

Airline incidentals

Up to $200 annual statements credits for airline incidental expenses, including baggage and seat selection fees; enrollment required

May have travel statement credits that would cover airline incidental fees up to a stated amount

Uber Cash

Up to $200 Uber Cash, distributed as $15 monthly and $35 in December; adding the Amex Platinum card to your Uber account is required

May include statement credits or discounts for Lyft or a travel statement credit for travel that would include eligible transportation purchases

Hotel credit

Up to $200 annually for prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts or The Hotel Collection (2-night minimum stay)

N/A

CLEAR Plus credit

Up to $199 each year for CLEAR Plus fee reimbursement

May include a discount for CLEAR membership (United Infinite Club card, for example)

Global Entry/TSA PreCheck credit

Up to $120 Global Entry application fee credit every 4 years or up to $85 TSA PreCheck application fee credit every 4.5 years

Global Entry/TSA PreCheck fee reimbursement is common

Travel

N/A

A statement credit for general travel purchases or when using the card’s travel portal

An airline incidental fee credit, Uber Cash, prepaid hotel credit, and expedited airport security membership fee reimbursement on the Amex Platinum card can provide direct value for cardholders.

Visa Infinite cards can offer statement credits for select travel purchases, but the value varies by card. For example, the Chase Sapphire Reserve card comes with a $300 travel statement credit each year, and the Capital One Venture X card has a $300 credit for select travel booked via Capital One Travel.

Bottom Line:

With over $900 in travel statement credits as outlined above, the Amex Platinum card provides plenty of value for travelers. Visa Infinite cards can also provide valuable travel statement credits worth hundreds of dollars or more.

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Shopping Protections and Credits

AirPods Pro in Charging Case
Purchasing items with your card may provide protection or a statement credit. Image Credit: Andrew Kunesh

Shopping protections and credits are bonus attributes that can deliver economic value. The Amex Platinum card and Visa Infinite cards have several of these.

Shopping Protections

When something goes wrong with an eligible item you purchased with your card, shopping protections may provide coverage.

The Amex Platinum card and Visa Infinite cards have similar coverage:

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Shopping Protection

The Platinum Card® from American Express

Visa Infinite Cards

Purchase protection/purchase security

Up to 90 days from purchase date for theft, accidental damage, or lost items, up to $10,000 per covered purchase, up to $50,000 per calendar year

Extended warranty

Eligible items with manufacturer’s warranties of 5 years or less receive 1 extra year

Doubles the manufacturer’s warranty of eligible items with 3 years or less, up to 12 additional months

Return protection

Eligible items not accepted for return by the merchant for up to 90 days from purchase date may qualify for a coverage up to $300 per itme, up to $1,000 per year

Cell phone protection

Pay the monthly bill with your card and receive up to $800 per claim, up to 2 claims per year for damaged or stolen phone, with a $50 deductible per claim

Visa Infinite cards may, or may not, have cell phone protection depending on the card issuer

The Amex Platinum card and Visa Infinite cards offer purchase protection/purchase security, extended warranty, and return protection coverage. The Amex Platinum card also offers cell phone protection. Some Visa Infinite cards, including the Capital One Venture X card, offer cell phone protection.

Shopping Credits

Shopping credits show up as a statement credit after you’ve made a specific purchase with your card.

The Amex Platinum card offers several credits, including nearly $1,100 in shopping statement credits! Here are the shopping credits you can expect on the card, some of which may require enrollment:

The Amex Platinum card has the edge over Visa Infinite cards when it comes to shopping credits. Depending on the card, Visa Infinite cards can come with various shopping credits, including food delivery, Lyft, and golfing.

Worldwide Acceptance

Domestically, American Express and Visa Infinite cards are equally widely accepted. Internationally, Visa is commonly accepted in more than 200 countries, while American Express cards are accepted in approximately 160 countries.

Visa Infinite cards are more broadly accepted worldwide than the Amex Platinum card. Additionally, neither card charges foreign transaction fees (rates & fees of the Amex Platinum card).

By all means, take your Amex Platinum card to use abroad, but you might also carry a Visa (or Mastercard) as a backup.

Annual Fee and Authorized Users

When selecting a premium travel rewards card, including the Amex Platinum card or a Visa Infinite card, it’s essential to consider any fees associated with the card membership.

Annual fees and the cost of adding additional card users can factor into determining a card’s value.

The Amex Platinum card has a fee of $695 (rates & fees). Each additional authorized user has a fee of $195 per card membership year (rates & fees). Authorized users receive card benefits, including worldwide lounge access, Global Entry/TSA PreCheck fee reimbursement, and hotel loyalty and car rental program status upon enrollment.

Visa Infinite card fees vary depending on the card. Because Visa Infinite cards are premium travel rewards cards, they tend to have higher annual fees. Some Visa Infinite cards allow you to add authorized users for no additional fee.

Final Thoughts

The Amex Platinum card is considered one of the best premium travel rewards cards. The card is packed with benefits that can provide substantial value for the frequent traveler. The level of value you receive will ultimately determine whether you should choose the card over a Visa Infinite card.

If you desire worldwide lounge access, the Amex Platinum card offers more lounge options. At redemption time, flexible rewards earned on Visa Infinite cards can yield a value similar to the Amex Platinum card when transferring to travel partners.

However, a Visa Infinite card may offer higher rewards-earning potential. Co-branded airline Visa Infinite cards earn frequent flyer miles rather than flexible rewards currency.

Of course, holding both an Amex Platinum card and a Visa Infinite card can be a functional and rewarding option. Frequent travelers often do just that.

For Capital One products listed on this page, some of the above benefits may be provided by Visa® or Mastercard® and may vary by product. See the respective Guide to Benefits for details, as terms and exclusions apply.

Upon enrollment, accessible through the Capital One website or mobile app, eligible cardholders will remain at that status level through the duration of the offer. Please note, enrolling through the normal Hertz Gold Plus Rewards enrollment process (e.g. at Hertz.com) will not automatically detect a cardholder as being eligible for the program and cardholders will not be automatically upgraded to the applicable status tier. Additional terms apply.

For the car rental loss and damage insurance benefit of The Platinum Card® from American Express, car rental loss and damage insurance can provide coverage up to $75,000 for theft of or damage to most rental vehicles when you use your eligible card to reserve and pay for the entire eligible vehicle rental and decline the collision damage waiver or similar option offered by the commercial car rental company. This product provides secondary coverage and does not include liability coverage. Not all vehicle types or rentals are covered. geographic restrictions apply. Eligibility and benefit level varies by card. Terms, conditions and limitations apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company. Car Rental Loss or Damage Coverage is offered through American Express Travel Related Services Company, Inc.

For the trip cancellation and interruption insurance benefit of The Platinum Card® from American Express, the maximum benefit amount for trip cancellation and interruption insurance is $10,000 per covered trip and $20,000 per eligible card per 12 consecutive month period. Eligibility and benefit level varies by card. Terms, conditions and limitations apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company.

For the trip delay insurance benefit of The Platinum Card® from American Express, up to $500 per covered trip that is delayed for more than 6 hours; and 2 claims per eligible card per 12 consecutive month period. Eligibility and benefit level varies by card. Terms, conditions and limitations apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company.

For the baggage insurance plan benefit of The Platinum Card® from American Express, baggage insurance plan coverage can be in effect for covered persons for eligible lost, damaged, or stolen baggage during their travel on a common carrier vehicle (e.g. plane, train, ship, or bus) when the Entire Fare for a ticket for the trip (one-way or round-trip) is charged to an eligible card. Coverage can be provided for up to $2,000 for checked baggage and up to a combined maximum of $3,000 for checked and carry-on baggage, in excess of coverage provided by the common carrier. The coverage is also subject to a $3,000 aggregate limit per covered trip. For New York State residents, there is a $2,000 per bag/suitcase limit for each covered person with a $10,000 aggregate maximum for all covered persons per covered trip. Eligibility and benefit level varies by card. Terms, conditions and limitations apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company.

For the premium global assist hotline benefit of The Platinum Card® from American Express, you can rely on Global Assist Hotline 24 hours a day / 7 days a week for medical, legal, financial or other select emergency coordination and assistance services while traveling more than 100 miles away from your home. Plus, we may provide emergency medical transportation assistance and related services. Third-party service costs may be your responsibility. Eligibility and benefit level varies by card. Terms, conditions and limitations apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. If approved and coordinated by premium global assist hotline, emergency medical transportation assistance may be provided at no cost. In any other circumstance, Card Members may be responsible for the costs charged by third-party service providers.

For the purchase protection benefit of The Platinum Card® from American Express, purchase protection is an embedded benefit of your card membership and requires no enrollment. It can help protect covered purchases made on your eligible card when they’re accidentally damaged, stolen, or lost, for up to 90 days from the covered purchase date. The coverage is limited up to $10,000 per occurrence, up to $50,000 per card member account per calendar year. Coverage limits apply. Eligibility and benefit level varies by card. Terms, conditions and limitations apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company.

For the extended warranty benefit of The Platinum Card® from American Express, when an American Express® card member charges a covered purchase to an eligible card, extended warranty can provide up to one extra year added to the original manufacturer’s warranty. Applies to warranties of five (5) years or less. Coverage is up to the actual amount charged to your card for the item up to a maximum of $10,000; not to exceed $50,000 per card member account per calendar year. Eligibility and benefit level varies by card. Terms, conditions and limitations apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company.

For the return protection benefit of The Platinum Card® from American Express, with return protection, you may return eligible purchases to American Express if the seller won’t take them back up to 90 days from the date of purchase. American Express may refund the full purchase price excluding shipping and handling, up to $300 per item, up to a maximum of $1,000 per calendar year per Card account, if you purchased it entirely with your eligible American Express® Card. Purchases must be made in the U.S. or its territories. Eligibility and benefit level varies by card. Terms, conditions and limitations apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details.

For the cell phone protection benefit of The Platinum Card® from American Express, coverage for a stolen or damaged eligible cellular wireless telephone is subject to the terms, conditions, exclusions and limits of liability of this benefit. The maximum liability is $800, per claim, per eligible card account. Each claim is subject to a $50 deductible. Coverage is limited to two (2) claims per eligible card account per 12 month period. Eligibility and benefit level varies by Card. Terms, conditions and limitations apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is better, the Amex Platinum card or a Visa Infinite card?

The Amex Platinum card is considered one of the best premium travel rewards cards. It has access to over 1,400 lounge properties worldwide, including exclusive access to the Centurion Lounge network. The card also includes flexible rewards redemption options and premium travel insurance benefits. Visa Infinite cards can include similar benefits depending on the card issuer. Earning levels for rewards may be higher on Visa Infinite cards.

Which is more widely accepted worldwide, American Express or Visa Infinite?

In the U.S., both American Express and Visa Infinite are accepted 99% of the time. Worldwide, American Express is accepted in approximately 160 countries, while Visa is accepted in 200+ countries.

Is the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card a Visa Infinite card?

No, the Chase Sapphire Preferred card is not a Visa Infinite card, it is a Visa Signature card. The Chase Sapphire Reserve card is a Visa Infinite card.

Do Visa Infinite cards have cell phone protection?

Some Visa Infinite cards have cell phone protection. For example, the Capital One Venture X card offers cell phone protection while the Chase Sapphire Reserve card does not.

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About Christine Krzyszton

Christine ran her own business developing and managing insurance and financial services offices. This stoked a passion for points and miles and she now has over 2 dozen credit cards and creates in-depth, detailed content for UP.

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