A Prestige Card Under Pressure
In 2025, the American Express Platinum Card still carries its luxury weight — and its eye-watering $695 annual fee. But with rising competition from cards like the Chase Sapphire Reserve and Capital One Venture X, many are wondering:
Is the Amex Platinum still worth it?
Let’s unpack what you’re actually getting — and whether the benefits justify the price tag.
Core Benefits: What You Get for $695
| Benefit | Value Estimate (Annual) |
|---|---|
| Uber Credits ($15/mo + Dec bonus) | $200 |
| Airline Fee Credit | $200 |
| Saks Fifth Avenue Credit | $100 |
| Global Entry / TSA PreCheck | $100 (every 4 years) |
| Lounge Access (Centurion + PP) | $500+ (depends on usage) |
| Hotel Elite Status (Hilton, Marriott) | Varies |
| Fine Hotels & Resorts Perks | High (if used often) |
Total estimated value: $1,100–$1,500, depending on your lifestyle.
Hidden Value: Lifestyle + Prestige
The Amex Platinum isn’t just about math — it’s about image and access:
- VIP event access and concierge service
- Exclusive bookings and partnerships
- Priority at luxury brands and travel networks
For frequent travelers and business-class flyers, these soft perks carry major weight. But if you don’t travel often, the card quickly loses shine.
The 2025 Competition Is Fierce
| Card | Annual Fee | Key Difference |
| Chase Sapphire Reserve | $550 | More flexible rewards, better dining perks |
| Venture X | $395 | Lower fee, easy-to-use credits |
| Amex Gold | $250 | Better for food/dining-focused users |
Unless you travel frequently and use the perks aggressively, it’s hard to justify $695 when others offer 70–90% of the value for half the fee.
Verdict: Who Should Keep It in 2025?
✅ Keep the Amex Platinum if you:
- Fly business class multiple times a year
- Regularly use airport lounges
- Value the prestige and concierge service
- Max out the credits annually
⛔ Consider canceling or downgrading if you:
- Rarely fly or stay at luxury hotels
- Don’t take advantage of the credits
- Prefer cashback simplicity or lower fees
Conclusion: Still Worth It — But Only for the Right Traveler
In 2025, the Amex Platinum is still one of the most powerful travel cards in the world. But it’s no longer a no-brainer. With new players offering competitive perks at lower costs, this card now demands active usage to break even — and even more effort to come out ahead.
🎯 Pro tip: If you’re considering the Platinum, always run the math based on your real travel habits, not just the card’s glossy marketing.
References
- American Express Platinum Card Terms & Conditions, 2025.
- NerdWallet, Amex Platinum vs Competitors, 2025.
- The Points Guy, Lounge Access Value Guide, 2025.
Smart Money Tech 