Chase Sapphire Preferred vs American Express Gold Card
Comprehensive comparison to help you choose the right option
Last updated: March 2026
Quick Verdict
Chase Sapphire Preferred takes the edge with a rating of 4.7/5. It's best for frequent travelers who want flexible rewards without a huge annual fee. However, American Express Gold Card is the better choice if you're looking for people who spend heavily on dining and groceries.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Chase Sapphire Preferred | American Express Gold Card |
|---|---|---|
| Card Category | Travel | Dining & Groceries |
| Annual Fee | $95 | $250 |
| APR | 21.49%-28.49% | N/A (Charge Card) |
| Sign-Up Bonus | 60,000 points after $4,000 spend in 3 months | 60,000 points after $6,000 spend in 6 months |
| Rewards Rate | 5x travel via Chase, 3x dining & streaming, 2x other travel, 1x everything else | 4x restaurants, 4x groceries (up to $25k/yr), 3x flights, 1x everything else |
| Foreign Transaction Fee | None | None |
| Credit Score Needed | Good to Excellent (670+) | Good to Excellent (670+) |
| Our Rating | 4.7/5 | 4.6/5 |
Chase Sapphire Preferred: Pros & Cons
Chase Sapphire Preferred Pros
- + Excellent sign-up bonus
- + Flexible point transfers
- + No foreign transaction fees
- + Trip cancellation insurance
- + 25% more value on Chase portal
Chase Sapphire Preferred Cons
- - $95 annual fee
- - No airport lounge access
- - Limited premium travel perks
Best for: Frequent travelers who want flexible rewards without a huge annual fee
American Express Gold Card: Pros & Cons
American Express Gold Card Pros
- + 4x dining and groceries is best in class
- + $120 Uber Cash credit
- + $120 dining credit
- + Strong sign-up bonus
American Express Gold Card Cons
- - $250 annual fee
- - Amex not accepted everywhere
- - Must pay balance monthly
Best for: People who spend heavily on dining and groceries
Detailed Analysis
Who Should Choose Chase Sapphire Preferred?
Chase Sapphire Preferred is the better choice if you're looking for frequent travelers who want flexible rewards without a huge annual fee. Its strongest advantages include excellent sign-up bonus and flexible point transfers. With a rating of 4.7/5, it stands out as one of the best options available.
Who Should Choose American Express Gold Card?
American Express Gold Card is ideal for those who want people who spend heavily on dining and groceries. Key strengths include 4x dining and groceries is best in class and $120 uber cash credit. Rated 4.6/5, it is among the top picks we recommend.
Final Verdict
Chase Sapphire Preferred
American Express Gold Card
Both Chase Sapphire Preferred and American Express Gold Card are solid credit card options. Choose Chase Sapphire Preferred if you value excellent sign-up bonus. Choose American Express Gold Card if you prioritize 4x dining and groceries is best in class.