What’s The Big Deal About Metal Credit Cards?

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I just don’t get the metal credit card trend. Maybe it’s because I’m not out to impress anyone with the credit card I’m using. For me, credit cards are a way to not have to pay with cash and of course, are tools to earn miles or points that fund our travels. I couldn’t care less if the cashier is impressed with the weight of the card I handed them to make a purchase.

While metal cards were all the rage when you had to hand your card to a cashier, times have changed. Today, more and more places let you insert your chip or tap at checkout. Even restaurants in the U.S. are starting to catch up with the rest of the world by bringing credit card terminals directly to the table.

When I worked as a cashier, I saw everything from Chime cards to the AMEX Centurion Card. Deep down, I couldn’t help but think about how the Centurion user—who pays $5,000 a year in annual fees—was earning just one point per dollar on their purchases.

So why did every bank jump on the metal card trend? I find it humorous that Discover has an article on its website about metal cards. Here’s what they say:

With metal credit cards, you still swipe, tap, or insert your chip in the same way you would a plastic credit card or plastic debit card.

Some metal credit cards are pure metal plates, and other metal credit cards are metal-plastic hybrids.

“Metal credit cards seem more attractive to consumers who demand cutting-edge innovations,” says Suresh Kumar, director of payment technology at Valid, a credit card manufacturer. “(They’re) also perceived to elevate a customer’s status. People tend to see metal cards as a sign of luxury.”

Really? Is a heavier credit card supposed to make you feel better? #SMH

Ritz-Carlton Brings Back Its Heaviest Card

In early 2024, Chase announced the the return of the “All-metal Ritz Carlton card.” It was move that created a buzz among luxury card enthusiasts. Previously known for being one of the heaviest cards on the market, the Ritz-Carlton card had garnered a loyal following, not just for its perks but also for its unique heft and premium feel. However, when Chase transitioned the card to a hybrid-metal design, similar to the Sapphire Reserve, many cardholders were vocal in their dissatisfaction.

The decision to revert to the all-metal design highlights how much perceived luxury matters in the premium credit card market. It also underscores the competitive nature of the industry, where small design elements can influence consumer loyalty and brand perception.

A List of Metal Credit Cards

Here’s a list of the currently-issued metal cards. I’ve included links to the ones I’ve reviewed; they may have my referral links included, but please don’t apply for any of these cards JUST because they’re metal. Although if you were the type of person to do that, I doubt you’d be reading a blog that publishes reviews of South of the Border, The Mai-Kai, and hotels in Pigeon Forge.

• Amazon Prime Rewards
• Amazon Business Prime Rewards
• American Express Business Gold Card
• American Express Gold Card
• American Express Platinum Card
• American Express Business Platinum Card
• American Express Centurion (Black) Card
• American Express Delta SkyMiles Platinum Card
• American Express Delta SkyMiles Reserve Card
• Apple Card
• Bilt Rewards Mastercard
• BlockFi Rewards (currently in limbo with crypto markets in turmoil)
• Capital One Savor Cash Rewards
• Capital One Venture Rewards
• Capital One Venture X
• Chase Sapphire Preferred
• Chase Sapphire Reserve
• Citi AAdvantage Executive
• Citi Prestige
• Crystal Visa Infinite
• HSBC Premier World Elite
• IHG Premier Card
• JP Morgan Reserve
• Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant
• MasterCard Black Card
• MasterCard Titanium Card
• MasterCard Gold Card
• Ritz-Carlton Card
• United Club Card
• United Club Business Card
• U.S Bank Altitude Go Card
• U.S. Bank Altitude Reserve
• Verizon Visa Card
• Wells Fargo Propel American Express

Final Thoughts

I’ve never picked a credit card based on its weight. For me, it’s all about the rewards. That said, I liked this practical take on metal cards:

You may want one for the practicality: members of our team have used a Chase Sapphire Preferred to scrape ice off a car window in the winter, and to open a door after getting locked out.

While I don’t need an ice scraper here in Central Florida, I’ll keep this in mind if I ever rent a car up north during the winter months!

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This post first appeared on Your Mileage May Vary