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American Express offers many credit cards for all kinds of consumers, including some of the best reward and travel credit cards.
Written by
Jaclyn DeJohn
Editor
Jaclyn is a CNET Money editor who relishes the sweet spot between numbers and words. With responsibility for overseeing CNET's credit card coverage, she writes and edits news, reviews and advice. She has experience covering business, personal finance and economics, and previously managed contracts and investments as a real estate agent. Her tech interests include Tesla, SpaceX, The Boring Company and Neuralink.
Evan Zimmer has been writing about finance for years. After graduating with a journalism degree from SUNY Oswego, he wrote credit card content for Credit Card Insider (now Money Tips) before moving to ZDNET Finance to cover credit card, banking and blockchain news. He currently works with CNET Money to bring readers the most accurate and up-to-date financial information. Otherwise, you can find him reading, rock climbing, snowboarding and enjoying the outdoors.
Jaclyn is a CNET Money editor who relishes the sweet spot between numbers and words. With responsibility for overseeing CNET's credit card coverage, she writes and edits news, reviews and advice. She has experience covering business, personal finance and economics, and previously managed contracts and investments as a real estate agent. Her tech interests include Tesla, SpaceX, The Boring Company and Neuralink.
As a freelance personal finance writer since 2008, Jason has contributed to over 100 outlets including Forbes, USA Today, Newsweek, Time, U.S. News, Money.com and NerdWallet.
As an industry leader, Jason has spoken at dozens of conferences and is the founder and producer of CardCon, an annual conference for credit card media. Jason also consults with individuals and small business owners to create customized plans to help them earn and spend travel rewards. He can be reached via his website; JasonSteele.com and on LinkedIn.
Jaclyn is a CNET Money editor who relishes the sweet spot between numbers and words. With responsibility for overseeing CNET's credit card coverage, she writes and edits news, reviews and advice. She has experience covering business, personal finance and economics, and previously managed contracts and investments as a real estate agent. Her tech interests include Tesla, SpaceX, The Boring Company and Neuralink.
Evan Zimmer has been writing about finance for years. After graduating with a journalism degree from SUNY Oswego, he wrote credit card content for Credit Card Insider (now Money Tips) before moving to ZDNET Finance to cover credit card, banking and blockchain news. He currently works with CNET Money to bring readers the most accurate and up-to-date financial information. Otherwise, you can find him reading, rock climbing, snowboarding and enjoying the outdoors.
Jaclyn is a CNET Money editor who relishes the sweet spot between numbers and words. With responsibility for overseeing CNET's credit card coverage, she writes and edits news, reviews and advice. She has experience covering business, personal finance and economics, and previously managed contracts and investments as a real estate agent. Her tech interests include Tesla, SpaceX, The Boring Company and Neuralink.
As a freelance personal finance writer since 2008, Jason has contributed to over 100 outlets including Forbes, USA Today, Newsweek, Time, U.S. News, Money.com and NerdWallet.
As an industry leader, Jason has spoken at dozens of conferences and is the founder and producer of CardCon, an annual conference for credit card media. Jason also consults with individuals and small business owners to create customized plans to help them earn and spend travel rewards. He can be reached via his website; JasonSteele.com and on LinkedIn.
CNET Rating
CNET rates credit cards by comparing their offers to those of their categorical competitors. Each card is individually evaluated through a formula which reflects the standards and expectations of the contemporary market. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
8/10
Annual Fee$0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95.
Rewards Rate
1%
- 6%
6% Cash Back at U.S. supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year in purchases (then 1%); 6% Cash Back on select U.S. streaming subscriptions; 3% Cash Back on transit including taxis/rideshare, parking, tolls, trains, buses and more; 3% Cash Back at U.S. gas stations; 1% Cash Back on other purchases
Intro offer available
Earn a $250 statement credit after you spend $3,000 in purchases on your new Card within the first 6 months.
CNET Rating
CNET rates credit cards by comparing their offers to those of their categorical competitors. Each card is individually evaluated through a formula which reflects the standards and expectations of the contemporary market. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
5.5/10
Annual Fee$0
Rewards Rate
1%
- 3%
3% Cash Back at U.S. supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year in purchases, then 1%.; 3% Cash Back on U.S. online retail purchases, on up to $6,000 per year, then 1%.; 3% Cash Back at U.S. gas stations, on up to $6,000 per year, then 1%.; 1% Cash Back on other purchases
Intro offer available
Earn a $200 statement credit after you spend $2,000 in purchases on your new Card within the first 6 months.
CNET Rating
CNET rates credit cards by comparing their offers to those of their categorical competitors. Each card is individually evaluated through a formula which reflects the standards and expectations of the contemporary market. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
8/10
Annual Fee$695
Rewards Rate
5x
- 5x
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.
Intro offer available
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.
CNET Rating
CNET rates credit cards by comparing their offers to those of their categorical competitors. Each card is individually evaluated through a formula which reflects the standards and expectations of the contemporary market. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
7.5/10
Annual Fee$250
Rewards Rate
3x
- 4x
Earn 4X Membership Rewards® Points at Restaurants, plus takeout and delivery in the U.S.; Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points at U.S. supermarkets (on up to $25,000 per calendar year in purchases, then 1X).; Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points on flights booked directly with airlines or on amextravel.com.
Intro offer available
Earn 60,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $6,000 on eligible purchases with your new Card within the first 6 months of Card Membership.
CNET Rating
CNET rates credit cards by comparing their offers to those of their categorical competitors. Each card is individually evaluated through a formula which reflects the standards and expectations of the contemporary market. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
8/10
Annual Fee$350
Rewards Rate
1x
- 3x
Earn 3X Miles on Delta purchases and purchases made directly with hotels.; Earn 2X Miles at restaurants worldwide including takeout and delivery in the U.S., and at U.S. supermarkets.; Earn 1X Miles on all other eligible purchases.
Intro offer available
Earn 50,000 Bonus Miles after you spend $3,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.
CNET Rating
CNET rates credit cards by comparing their offers to those of their categorical competitors. Each card is individually evaluated through a formula which reflects the standards and expectations of the contemporary market. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
7.25/10
Annual Fee$0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $150.
Rewards Rate
1x
- 2x
Earn 2X Miles on Delta purchases, at U.S. Supermarkets and at restaurants worldwide, including takeout and delivery in the U.S.; Earn 1X Mile on all other eligible purchases.
Intro offer available
Earn 40,000 Bonus Miles after you spend $2,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.
CNET Rating
CNET rates credit cards by comparing their offers to those of their categorical competitors. Each card is individually evaluated through a formula which reflects the standards and expectations of the contemporary market. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
6.5/10
Annual Fee$650
Rewards Rate
1x
- 3x
Earn 3X Miles on Delta purchases.
; Earn 1X Miles on all other eligible purchases.
Intro offer available
Earn 60,000 Bonus Miles after you spend $5,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.
CNET Rating
CNET rates credit cards by comparing their offers to those of their categorical competitors. Each card is individually evaluated through a formula which reflects the standards and expectations of the contemporary market. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
4.5/10
Annual Fee$0
Rewards Rate
1x
- 2x
Earn 2X Miles per dollar at restaurants worldwide, plus takeout and delivery in the U.S.; Earn 2X Miles per dollar spent on Delta purchases.; Earn 1X Mile on all other eligible purchases.
Intro offer available
Earn 10,000 bonus miles after you spend $1,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months.
CNET Rating
CNET rates credit cards by comparing their offers to those of their categorical competitors. Each card is individually evaluated through a formula which reflects the standards and expectations of the contemporary market. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
7.5/10
Annual Fee$250
Rewards Rate
2x
- 6x
Earn 6X Marriott Bonvoy® points for each dollar of eligible purchases at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy.; Earn 4X points at restaurants worldwide and U.S. supermarkets (on up to $15,000 in combined purchases at restaurants and U.S. supermarkets per calendar year, then 2X points).; Earn 2X points on all other eligible purchases.
Intro offer available
Earn 85,000 Marriott Bonvoy bonus points after you use your new Card to make $5,000 in purchases within the first 6 months of Card Membership.
CNET Rating
CNET rates credit cards by comparing their offers to those of their categorical competitors. Each card is individually evaluated through a formula which reflects the standards and expectations of the contemporary market. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
7/10
Annual Fee$650
Rewards Rate
2x
- 6x
Earn 6X Marriott Bonvoy points for each dollar of eligible purchases at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy®; 3X points at restaurants worldwide and on flights booked directly with airlines; 2X points on all other eligible purchases
Intro offer available
Earn 95,000 Marriott Bonvoy bonus points after you use your new Card to make $6,000 in purchases within the first 6 months of Card Membership.
CNET Rating
CNET rates credit cards by comparing their offers to those of their categorical competitors. Each card is individually evaluated through a formula which reflects the standards and expectations of the contemporary market. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
5.5/10
Annual Fee$0
Rewards Rate
3x
- 7x
Earn 7X Hilton Honors Bonus Points for each dollar of eligible purchases charged on your Card directly with hotels and resorts within the Hilton portfolio.; Earn 5X Points per dollar on purchases at U.S. restaurants, at U.S. supermarkets, and at U.S. gas stations.; Earn 3X Points for all other eligible purchases on your Card.
Intro offer available
Earn 80,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points after you spend $2,000 in purchases on the Card in the first 6 months of Card Membership.
CNET Rating
CNET rates credit cards by comparing their offers to those of their categorical competitors. Each card is individually evaluated through a formula which reflects the standards and expectations of the contemporary market. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
7.5/10
Annual Fee$150
Rewards Rate
3x
- 12x
Earn 12X Hilton Honors Bonus Points for each dollar of eligible purchases charged on your Card directly with a hotel or resort within the Hilton portfolio.; Earn 6X Points for each dollar of purchases on your Card at U.S. restaurants, at U.S. supermarkets, and at U.S. gas stations.; Earn 4X Points for each dollar on U.S. Online Retail Purchases.; Earn 3X Points for all other eligible purchases on your Card.
Intro offer available
Earn 130,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points after you spend $3,000 in purchases on the Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.
CNET Rating
CNET rates credit cards by comparing their offers to those of their categorical competitors. Each card is individually evaluated through a formula which reflects the standards and expectations of the contemporary market. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
6.5/10
Annual Fee$450
Rewards Rate
3x
- 14x
Earn 14X Hilton Honors Bonus Points when you make eligible purchases on your Card at participating hotels or resorts within the Hilton Portfolio.; Earn 7X Hilton Honors Bonus Points for eligible purchases: on flights booked directly with airlines or amextravel.com, on car rentals booked directly from select car rental companies & at U.S. restaurants.; Earn 3X Hilton Honors Bonus Points for all other eligible purchases on your Card.
Intro offer available
Earn 150,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points with the Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card after you use your new Card to make $4,000 in eligible purchases within the first 3 months of Card Membership.
Before seeking to maximize cash back or points earned on your purchases, make sure you pay off any existing credit card debt and can pay down your balances each month. If you revolve debt balances on these cards, any rewards you earn could easily be wiped out by high-interest accrual.
The Amex cards below offer the most value for a range of consumers, but your needs may vary. Be sure to weigh annual fees, intro offers, rewards categories, statement credits, foreign-transaction fees and other factors when finding the right fit for your wallet.
All credit cards on this best list are researched and hand-picked by the CNET editorial staff. We regularly consult and work with personal finance experts to make sure our advice is accurate and informed, but those experts are not involved in our best list selection process.
All information about the Centurion® Card from American Express and the Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card has been collected independently by CNET and has not been reviewed by the issuer.
American Express offers some of the most exclusive cards and luxury benefits available, and it’s home to classics such as The Platinum Card® from American Express and the fabled Centurion® Card from American Express*. But its high-value perks are more widely available than you might realize.
Along with premium travel cards, American Express offers co-branded options from popular brands including Delta and Hilton, and cash-back cards that help you save on everyday purchases. It’s also the second-largest credit card issuer by purchase volume, second only to Chase.
Much of Amex’s appeal is in its lofty benefits and exclusive access. If you can’t take full advantage of premium airport lounge access or hotel savings, the cost of its cards may not be worth their rewards.
Before you jump on any new card offer, make sure you consider how much the card costs, how it earns rewards, and whether you can use everything it has to offer.
CNET Rating
CNET rates credit cards by comparing their offers to those of their categorical competitors. Each card is individually evaluated through a formula which reflects the standards and expectations of the contemporary market. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
Earn $250
Earn a $250 statement credit after you spend $3,000 in purchases on your new Card within the first 6 months.
Annual Fee
$0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95.
Rewards Rate
1%
– 6%
6% Cash Back at U.S. supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year in purchases (then 1%); 6% Cash Back on select U.S. streaming subscriptions; 3% Cash Back on transit including taxis/rideshare, parking, tolls, trains, buses and more; 3% Cash Back at U.S. gas stations; 1% Cash Back on other purchases
Rec. Credit
Recommended Credit: A credit score is used to indicate an applicant’s credit worthiness and may provide guidance about account eligibility. It does not necessarily guarantee approval for any financial product.
Cash back is received in the form of Reward Dollars that can be redeemed as a statement credit.
Intro Balance Transfer APR
0% on balance transfers for 12 months
Intro Purchase APR
0% on purchases for 12 months
Regular APR
19.24% – 29.99% Variable
Balance Transfer Fee
Either $5 or 3% of the amount of each transfer, whichever is greater.
6%
6% Cash Back at U.S. supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year in purchases (then 1%)
6%
6% Cash Back on select U.S. streaming subscriptions
3%
3% Cash Back on transit including taxis/rideshare, parking, tolls, trains, buses and more
3%
3% Cash Back at U.S. gas stations
1%
1% Cash Back on other purchases
Cash back is received in the form of Reward Dollars that can be redeemed as a statement credit.
Terms apply to American Express benefits and offers. Enrollment may be required for select American Express benefits and offers. Visit americanexpress.com to learn more
Cash back is received in the form of Reward Dollars that can be redeemed as a statement credit.
Intro Balance Transfer APR
0% on balance transfers for 12 months
Intro Purchase APR
0% on purchases for 12 months
Regular APR
19.24% – 29.99% Variable
Balance Transfer Fee
Either $5 or 3% of the amount of each transfer, whichever is greater.
6%
6% Cash Back at U.S. supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year in purchases (then 1%)
6%
6% Cash Back on select U.S. streaming subscriptions
3%
3% Cash Back on transit including taxis/rideshare, parking, tolls, trains, buses and more
3%
3% Cash Back at U.S. gas stations
1%
1% Cash Back on other purchases
Cash back is received in the form of Reward Dollars that can be redeemed as a statement credit.
Terms apply to American Express benefits and offers. Enrollment may be required for select American Express benefits and offers. Visit americanexpress.com to learn more
CNET Rating
CNET rates credit cards by comparing their offers to those of their categorical competitors. Each card is individually evaluated through a formula which reflects the standards and expectations of the contemporary market. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
Earn $200
Earn a $200 statement credit after you spend $2,000 in purchases on your new Card within the first 6 months.
Annual Fee
$0
Rewards Rate
1%
– 3%
3% Cash Back at U.S. supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year in purchases, then 1%.; 3% Cash Back on U.S. online retail purchases, on up to $6,000 per year, then 1%.; 3% Cash Back at U.S. gas stations, on up to $6,000 per year, then 1%.; 1% Cash Back on other purchases
Rec. Credit
Recommended Credit: A credit score is used to indicate an applicant’s credit worthiness and may provide guidance about account eligibility. It does not necessarily guarantee approval for any financial product.
Cash back is received in the form of Reward Dollars that can be redeemed as a statement credit.
Intro Balance Transfer APR
0% on balance transfers for 15 months
Intro Purchase APR
0% on Purchases for 15 months
Regular APR
19.24% – 29.99% Variable
Balance Transfer Fee
Either $5 or 3% of the amount of each transfer, whichever is greater.
3%
3% Cash Back at U.S. supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year in purchases, then 1%.
3%
3% Cash Back on U.S. online retail purchases, on up to $6,000 per year, then 1%.
3%
3% Cash Back at U.S. gas stations, on up to $6,000 per year, then 1%.
1%
1% Cash Back on other purchases
Cash back is received in the form of Reward Dollars that can be redeemed as a statement credit.
Terms apply to American Express benefits and offers. Enrollment may be required for select American Express benefits and offers. Visit americanexpress.com to learn more
Cash back is received in the form of Reward Dollars that can be redeemed as a statement credit.
Intro Balance Transfer APR
0% on balance transfers for 15 months
Intro Purchase APR
0% on Purchases for 15 months
Regular APR
19.24% – 29.99% Variable
Balance Transfer Fee
Either $5 or 3% of the amount of each transfer, whichever is greater.
3%
3% Cash Back at U.S. supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year in purchases, then 1%.
3%
3% Cash Back on U.S. online retail purchases, on up to $6,000 per year, then 1%.
3%
3% Cash Back at U.S. gas stations, on up to $6,000 per year, then 1%.
1%
1% Cash Back on other purchases
Cash back is received in the form of Reward Dollars that can be redeemed as a statement credit.
Terms apply to American Express benefits and offers. Enrollment may be required for select American Express benefits and offers. Visit americanexpress.com to learn more
CNET Rating
CNET rates credit cards by comparing their offers to those of their categorical competitors. Each card is individually evaluated through a formula which reflects the standards and expectations of the contemporary market. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
Earn 80,000 points
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.
Annual Fee
$695
Rewards Rate
5x
– 5x
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.
Rec. Credit
Recommended Credit: A credit score is used to indicate an applicant’s credit worthiness and may provide guidance about account eligibility. It does not necessarily guarantee approval for any financial product.
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.
5x
Earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel.
Terms apply to American Express benefits and offers. Enrollment may be required for select American Express benefits and offers. Visit americanexpress.com to learn more
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.
5x
Earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel.
Terms apply to American Express benefits and offers. Enrollment may be required for select American Express benefits and offers. Visit americanexpress.com to learn more
CNET Rating
CNET rates credit cards by comparing their offers to those of their categorical competitors. Each card is individually evaluated through a formula which reflects the standards and expectations of the contemporary market. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
60,000 Membership Rewards® Points
Earn 60,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $6,000 on eligible purchases with your new Card within the first 6 months of Card Membership.
Annual Fee
$250
Rewards Rate
3x
– 4x
Earn 4X Membership Rewards® Points at Restaurants, plus takeout and delivery in the U.S.; Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points at U.S. supermarkets (on up to $25,000 per calendar year in purchases, then 1X).; Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points on flights booked directly with airlines or on amextravel.com.
Rec. Credit
Recommended Credit: A credit score is used to indicate an applicant’s credit worthiness and may provide guidance about account eligibility. It does not necessarily guarantee approval for any financial product.
Earn 4X Membership Rewards® Points at Restaurants, plus takeout and delivery in the U.S.
4x
Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points at U.S. supermarkets (on up to $25,000 per calendar year in purchases, then 1X).
3x
Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points on flights booked directly with airlines or on amextravel.com.
Terms apply to American Express benefits and offers. Enrollment may be required for select American Express benefits and offers. Visit americanexpress.com to learn more
Earn 4X Membership Rewards® Points at Restaurants, plus takeout and delivery in the U.S.
4x
Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points at U.S. supermarkets (on up to $25,000 per calendar year in purchases, then 1X).
3x
Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points on flights booked directly with airlines or on amextravel.com.
Terms apply to American Express benefits and offers. Enrollment may be required for select American Express benefits and offers. Visit americanexpress.com to learn more
CNET Rating
CNET rates credit cards by comparing their offers to those of their categorical competitors. Each card is individually evaluated through a formula which reflects the standards and expectations of the contemporary market. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
Earn 50,000 miles
Earn 50,000 Bonus Miles after you spend $3,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.
Annual Fee
$350
Rewards Rate
1x
– 3x
Earn 3X Miles on Delta purchases and purchases made directly with hotels.; Earn 2X Miles at restaurants worldwide including takeout and delivery in the U.S., and at U.S. supermarkets.; Earn 1X Miles on all other eligible purchases.
Rec. Credit
Recommended Credit: A credit score is used to indicate an applicant’s credit worthiness and may provide guidance about account eligibility. It does not necessarily guarantee approval for any financial product.
Earn 3X Miles on Delta purchases and purchases made directly with hotels.
2x
Earn 2X Miles at restaurants worldwide including takeout and delivery in the U.S., and at U.S. supermarkets.
1x
Earn 1X Miles on all other eligible purchases.
Terms apply to American Express benefits and offers. Enrollment may be required for select American Express benefits and offers. Visit americanexpress.com to learn more
Earn 3X Miles on Delta purchases and purchases made directly with hotels.
2x
Earn 2X Miles at restaurants worldwide including takeout and delivery in the U.S., and at U.S. supermarkets.
1x
Earn 1X Miles on all other eligible purchases.
Terms apply to American Express benefits and offers. Enrollment may be required for select American Express benefits and offers. Visit americanexpress.com to learn more
CNET Rating
CNET rates credit cards by comparing their offers to those of their categorical competitors. Each card is individually evaluated through a formula which reflects the standards and expectations of the contemporary market. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
Earn 40,000 Miles
Earn 40,000 Bonus Miles after you spend $2,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.
Annual Fee
$0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $150.
Rewards Rate
1x
– 2x
Earn 2X Miles on Delta purchases, at U.S. Supermarkets and at restaurants worldwide, including takeout and delivery in the U.S.; Earn 1X Mile on all other eligible purchases.
Rec. Credit
Recommended Credit: A credit score is used to indicate an applicant’s credit worthiness and may provide guidance about account eligibility. It does not necessarily guarantee approval for any financial product.
Earn 2X Miles on Delta purchases, at U.S. Supermarkets and at restaurants worldwide, including takeout and delivery in the U.S.
1x
Earn 1X Mile on all other eligible purchases.
Terms apply to American Express benefits and offers. Enrollment may be required for select American Express benefits and offers. Visit americanexpress.com to learn more
Earn 2X Miles on Delta purchases, at U.S. Supermarkets and at restaurants worldwide, including takeout and delivery in the U.S.
1x
Earn 1X Mile on all other eligible purchases.
Terms apply to American Express benefits and offers. Enrollment may be required for select American Express benefits and offers. Visit americanexpress.com to learn more
CNET Rating
CNET rates credit cards by comparing their offers to those of their categorical competitors. Each card is individually evaluated through a formula which reflects the standards and expectations of the contemporary market. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
Earn 60,000 miles
Earn 60,000 Bonus Miles after you spend $5,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.
Annual Fee
$650
Rewards Rate
1x
– 3x
Earn 3X Miles on Delta purchases.
; Earn 1X Miles on all other eligible purchases.
Rec. Credit
Recommended Credit: A credit score is used to indicate an applicant’s credit worthiness and may provide guidance about account eligibility. It does not necessarily guarantee approval for any financial product.
Terms apply to American Express benefits and offers. Enrollment may be required for select American Express benefits and offers. Visit americanexpress.com to learn more
Terms apply to American Express benefits and offers. Enrollment may be required for select American Express benefits and offers. Visit americanexpress.com to learn more
CNET Rating
CNET rates credit cards by comparing their offers to those of their categorical competitors. Each card is individually evaluated through a formula which reflects the standards and expectations of the contemporary market. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
Earn 10,000 miles
Earn 10,000 bonus miles after you spend $1,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months.
Annual Fee
$0
Rewards Rate
1x
– 2x
Earn 2X Miles per dollar at restaurants worldwide, plus takeout and delivery in the U.S.; Earn 2X Miles per dollar spent on Delta purchases.; Earn 1X Mile on all other eligible purchases.
Rec. Credit
Recommended Credit: A credit score is used to indicate an applicant’s credit worthiness and may provide guidance about account eligibility. It does not necessarily guarantee approval for any financial product.
670 – 850
Good – Excellent
APR
20.99%-29.99% Variable
Intro Balance Transfer APR
N/A
Intro Purchase APR
N/A
Regular APR
20.99%-29.99% Variable
Balance Transfer Fee
N/A
2x
Earn 2X Miles per dollar at restaurants worldwide, plus takeout and delivery in the U.S.
2x
Earn 2X Miles per dollar spent on Delta purchases.
1x
Earn 1X Mile on all other eligible purchases.
Terms apply to American Express benefits and offers. Enrollment may be required for select American Express benefits and offers. Visit americanexpress.com to learn more
Intro Balance Transfer APR
N/A
Intro Purchase APR
N/A
Regular APR
20.99%-29.99% Variable
Balance Transfer Fee
N/A
2x
Earn 2X Miles per dollar at restaurants worldwide, plus takeout and delivery in the U.S.
2x
Earn 2X Miles per dollar spent on Delta purchases.
1x
Earn 1X Mile on all other eligible purchases.
Terms apply to American Express benefits and offers. Enrollment may be required for select American Express benefits and offers. Visit americanexpress.com to learn more
CNET Rating
CNET rates credit cards by comparing their offers to those of their categorical competitors. Each card is individually evaluated through a formula which reflects the standards and expectations of the contemporary market. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
Earn 85,000 Marriott Bonvoy bonus points
Earn 85,000 Marriott Bonvoy bonus points after you use your new Card to make $5,000 in purchases within the first 6 months of Card Membership.
Annual Fee
$250
Rewards Rate
2x
– 6x
Earn 6X Marriott Bonvoy® points for each dollar of eligible purchases at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy.; Earn 4X points at restaurants worldwide and U.S. supermarkets (on up to $15,000 in combined purchases at restaurants and U.S. supermarkets per calendar year, then 2X points).; Earn 2X points on all other eligible purchases.
Rec. Credit
Recommended Credit: A credit score is used to indicate an applicant’s credit worthiness and may provide guidance about account eligibility. It does not necessarily guarantee approval for any financial product.
670 – 850
Good – Excellent
APR
20.99%-29.99% Variable
Intro Balance Transfer APR
N/A
Intro Purchase APR
N/A
Regular APR
20.99%-29.99% Variable
Balance Transfer Fee
N/A
6x
Earn 6X Marriott Bonvoy® points for each dollar of eligible purchases at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy.
4x
Earn 4X points at restaurants worldwide and U.S. supermarkets (on up to $15,000 in combined purchases at restaurants and U.S. supermarkets per calendar year, then 2X points).
2x
Earn 2X points on all other eligible purchases.
Terms apply to American Express benefits and offers. Enrollment may be required for select American Express benefits and offers. Visit americanexpress.com to learn more
Intro Balance Transfer APR
N/A
Intro Purchase APR
N/A
Regular APR
20.99%-29.99% Variable
Balance Transfer Fee
N/A
6x
Earn 6X Marriott Bonvoy® points for each dollar of eligible purchases at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy.
4x
Earn 4X points at restaurants worldwide and U.S. supermarkets (on up to $15,000 in combined purchases at restaurants and U.S. supermarkets per calendar year, then 2X points).
2x
Earn 2X points on all other eligible purchases.
Terms apply to American Express benefits and offers. Enrollment may be required for select American Express benefits and offers. Visit americanexpress.com to learn more
CNET Rating
CNET rates credit cards by comparing their offers to those of their categorical competitors. Each card is individually evaluated through a formula which reflects the standards and expectations of the contemporary market. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
Earn 95,000 Marriott Bonvoy bonus points
Earn 95,000 Marriott Bonvoy bonus points after you use your new Card to make $6,000 in purchases within the first 6 months of Card Membership.
Annual Fee
$650
Rewards Rate
2x
– 6x
Earn 6X Marriott Bonvoy points for each dollar of eligible purchases at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy®; 3X points at restaurants worldwide and on flights booked directly with airlines; 2X points on all other eligible purchases
Rec. Credit
Recommended Credit: A credit score is used to indicate an applicant’s credit worthiness and may provide guidance about account eligibility. It does not necessarily guarantee approval for any financial product.
670 – 850
Good – Excellent
APR
20.99%-29.99% Variable
Intro Balance Transfer APR
N/A
Intro Purchase APR
N/A
Regular APR
20.99%-29.99% Variable
Balance Transfer Fee
N/A
6x
Earn 6X Marriott Bonvoy points for each dollar of eligible purchases at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy®
3x
3X points at restaurants worldwide and on flights booked directly with airlines
2x
2X points on all other eligible purchases
Terms apply to American Express benefits and offers. Enrollment may be required for select American Express benefits and offers. Visit americanexpress.com to learn more
Intro Balance Transfer APR
N/A
Intro Purchase APR
N/A
Regular APR
20.99%-29.99% Variable
Balance Transfer Fee
N/A
6x
Earn 6X Marriott Bonvoy points for each dollar of eligible purchases at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy®
3x
3X points at restaurants worldwide and on flights booked directly with airlines
2x
2X points on all other eligible purchases
Terms apply to American Express benefits and offers. Enrollment may be required for select American Express benefits and offers. Visit americanexpress.com to learn more
CNET Rating
CNET rates credit cards by comparing their offers to those of their categorical competitors. Each card is individually evaluated through a formula which reflects the standards and expectations of the contemporary market. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
Earn 80,000 points
Earn 80,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points after you spend $2,000 in purchases on the Card in the first 6 months of Card Membership.
Annual Fee
$0
Rewards Rate
3x
– 7x
Earn 7X Hilton Honors Bonus Points for each dollar of eligible purchases charged on your Card directly with hotels and resorts within the Hilton portfolio.; Earn 5X Points per dollar on purchases at U.S. restaurants, at U.S. supermarkets, and at U.S. gas stations.; Earn 3X Points for all other eligible purchases on your Card.
Rec. Credit
Recommended Credit: A credit score is used to indicate an applicant’s credit worthiness and may provide guidance about account eligibility. It does not necessarily guarantee approval for any financial product.
Earn 7X Hilton Honors Bonus Points for each dollar of eligible purchases charged on your Card directly with hotels and resorts within the Hilton portfolio.
5x
Earn 5X Points per dollar on purchases at U.S. restaurants, at U.S. supermarkets, and at U.S. gas stations.
3x
Earn 3X Points for all other eligible purchases on your Card.
Terms apply to American Express benefits and offers. Enrollment may be required for select American Express benefits and offers. Visit americanexpress.com to learn more
Earn 7X Hilton Honors Bonus Points for each dollar of eligible purchases charged on your Card directly with hotels and resorts within the Hilton portfolio.
5x
Earn 5X Points per dollar on purchases at U.S. restaurants, at U.S. supermarkets, and at U.S. gas stations.
3x
Earn 3X Points for all other eligible purchases on your Card.
Terms apply to American Express benefits and offers. Enrollment may be required for select American Express benefits and offers. Visit americanexpress.com to learn more
CNET Rating
CNET rates credit cards by comparing their offers to those of their categorical competitors. Each card is individually evaluated through a formula which reflects the standards and expectations of the contemporary market. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
Earn 130,000 points
Earn 130,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points after you spend $3,000 in purchases on the Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.
Annual Fee
$150
Rewards Rate
3x
– 12x
Earn 12X Hilton Honors Bonus Points for each dollar of eligible purchases charged on your Card directly with a hotel or resort within the Hilton portfolio.; Earn 6X Points for each dollar of purchases on your Card at U.S. restaurants, at U.S. supermarkets, and at U.S. gas stations.; Earn 4X Points for each dollar on U.S. Online Retail Purchases.; Earn 3X Points for all other eligible purchases on your Card.
Rec. Credit
Recommended Credit: A credit score is used to indicate an applicant’s credit worthiness and may provide guidance about account eligibility. It does not necessarily guarantee approval for any financial product.
670 – 850
Good – Excellent
APR
20.99%-29.99% Variable
Intro Balance Transfer APR
N/A
Intro Purchase APR
N/A
Regular APR
20.99%-29.99% Variable
Balance Transfer Fee
N/A
12x
Earn 12X Hilton Honors Bonus Points for each dollar of eligible purchases charged on your Card directly with a hotel or resort within the Hilton portfolio.
6x
Earn 6X Points for each dollar of purchases on your Card at U.S. restaurants, at U.S. supermarkets, and at U.S. gas stations.
4x
Earn 4X Points for each dollar on U.S. Online Retail Purchases.
3x
Earn 3X Points for all other eligible purchases on your Card.
Terms apply to American Express benefits and offers. Enrollment may be required for select American Express benefits and offers. Visit americanexpress.com to learn more
Intro Balance Transfer APR
N/A
Intro Purchase APR
N/A
Regular APR
20.99%-29.99% Variable
Balance Transfer Fee
N/A
12x
Earn 12X Hilton Honors Bonus Points for each dollar of eligible purchases charged on your Card directly with a hotel or resort within the Hilton portfolio.
6x
Earn 6X Points for each dollar of purchases on your Card at U.S. restaurants, at U.S. supermarkets, and at U.S. gas stations.
4x
Earn 4X Points for each dollar on U.S. Online Retail Purchases.
3x
Earn 3X Points for all other eligible purchases on your Card.
Terms apply to American Express benefits and offers. Enrollment may be required for select American Express benefits and offers. Visit americanexpress.com to learn more
CNET Rating
CNET rates credit cards by comparing their offers to those of their categorical competitors. Each card is individually evaluated through a formula which reflects the standards and expectations of the contemporary market. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
150,000
Earn 150,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points with the Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card after you use your new Card to make $4,000 in eligible purchases within the first 3 months of Card Membership.
Annual Fee
$450
Rewards Rate
3x
– 14x
Earn 14X Hilton Honors Bonus Points when you make eligible purchases on your Card at participating hotels or resorts within the Hilton Portfolio.; Earn 7X Hilton Honors Bonus Points for eligible purchases: on flights booked directly with airlines or amextravel.com, on car rentals booked directly from select car rental companies & at U.S. restaurants.; Earn 3X Hilton Honors Bonus Points for all other eligible purchases on your Card.
Rec. Credit
Recommended Credit: A credit score is used to indicate an applicant’s credit worthiness and may provide guidance about account eligibility. It does not necessarily guarantee approval for any financial product.
670 – 850
Good – Excellent
APR
20.99% – 29.99% Variable
All information about the Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card has been collected independently by CNET and has not been reviewed by the issuer.
Intro Balance Transfer APR
N/A
Intro Purchase APR
N/A
Regular APR
20.99% – 29.99% Variable
Balance Transfer Fee
N/A
14x
Earn 14X Hilton Honors Bonus Points when you make eligible purchases on your Card at participating hotels or resorts within the Hilton Portfolio.
7x
Earn 7X Hilton Honors Bonus Points for eligible purchases: on flights booked directly with airlines or amextravel.com, on car rentals booked directly from select car rental companies & at U.S. restaurants.
3x
Earn 3X Hilton Honors Bonus Points for all other eligible purchases on your Card.
Terms apply to American Express benefits and offers. Enrollment may be required for select American Express benefits and offers. Visit americanexpress.com to learn more
All information about the Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card has been collected independently by CNET and has not been reviewed by the issuer.
Intro Balance Transfer APR
N/A
Intro Purchase APR
N/A
Regular APR
20.99% – 29.99% Variable
Balance Transfer Fee
N/A
14x
Earn 14X Hilton Honors Bonus Points when you make eligible purchases on your Card at participating hotels or resorts within the Hilton Portfolio.
7x
Earn 7X Hilton Honors Bonus Points for eligible purchases: on flights booked directly with airlines or amextravel.com, on car rentals booked directly from select car rental companies & at U.S. restaurants.
3x
Earn 3X Hilton Honors Bonus Points for all other eligible purchases on your Card.
Terms apply to American Express benefits and offers. Enrollment may be required for select American Express benefits and offers. Visit americanexpress.com to learn more
Credit score requirements for American Express cards
For good credit, you’ll generally need a credit score of 670 or higher. If your credit score is lower, you can improve your credit score with responsible use of your current accounts.
As a tradeoff for the high credit requirements, many Amex credit cards offer premium perks above and beyond rewards, such as annual statement credits and travel benefits.
Amex compared with other issuers
American Express, like Discover, operates as both a credit card issuer and credit card payment network. Visa and Mastercard, on the other hand, are only processors, which means the two companies facilitate payments rather than issue credit cards.
Instead, Visa and Mastercard team with banks including Bank of America and Capital One to issue credit cards. Visa and Mastercard will approve transactions, while the issuing bank will decide whether you qualify for a credit card.
The main difference between card processors such as American Express, Visa and Mastercard is where the cards are accepted. The main difference between issuers such as Capital One or Bank of America is qualification requirements.
Comparatively, American Express has the lowest merchant acceptance rate due to higher merchant transaction fees, and it also tends to have the highest credit requirements for new applicants.
How many American Express cards can you have?
You can have a total of up to five American Express consumer and business credit cards at once. However, this doesn’t apply to cards like The Platinum Card® from American Express, which must be paid off in full each month.
Is Amex the right choice for you?
American Express offers credit cards for every type of consumer, so long as you have the appropriate credit score. Some of the best credit cards are issued by American Express, including the Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express and The Platinum Card, which provides the widest access to airport lounges of any credit card.
However, the issuer does fall short in terms of no-annual-fee options. That’s not to say there aren’t any worthwhile choices (there’s the Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express, for example), but you’ll likely need to pay an annual fee to access the best that the issuer has to offer.
If you do opt for a credit card with an annual fee, check to see how much value you will get from the card’s rewards and perks. If you’re able to earn enough rewards to cover the cost, or if the card offers annual travel credits you’re able to utilize regularly, it could make sense to apply.
How to Apply for an American Express card
Follow these steps to apply for an American Express card:
Choose the credit card that best fits your lifestyle and spending habits.
Apply securely on the credit card issuer’s website. You’ll need financial and personal identifying information, including your name, date of birth, address, Social Security number, income and monthly rent or mortgage payment.
You should hear back instantly on the issuer’s decision. Or, it may reach out to you for clarification or more information.
FAQs
American Express credit card annual fees range from $0 to upward of $695 annually. A higher annual fee usually yields better card perks, but is only worth it if you use the card enough.
No, some Amex cards don’t have an annual fee, like the Blue Cash Everyday, Hilton Honors Card and Delta SkyMiles Blue.
Which card is easiest to get will depend on your credit. The better your credit, the more likely you are to be approved for a credit card.
You can cancel an American Express card by contacting the issuer. However, canceling a credit card is often not the best move as it can have repercussions for your credit.
The editorial content on this page is based solely on objective, independent assessments by our writers and is not influenced by advertising or partnerships. It has not been provided or commissioned by any third party. However, we may receive compensation when you click on links to products or services offered by our partners.
Jaclyn is a CNET Money editor who relishes the sweet spot between numbers and words. With responsibility for overseeing CNET's credit card coverage, she writes and edits news, reviews and advice. She has experience covering business, personal finance and economics, and previously managed contracts and investments as a real estate agent. Her tech interests include Tesla, SpaceX, The Boring Company and Neuralink.
Evan Zimmer has been writing about finance for years. After graduating with a journalism degree from SUNY Oswego, he wrote credit card content for Credit Card Insider (now Money Tips) before moving to ZDNET Finance to cover credit card, banking and blockchain news. He currently works with CNET Money to bring readers the most accurate and up-to-date financial information. Otherwise, you can find him reading, rock climbing, snowboarding and enjoying the outdoors.