The 10 Best Premium and Luxury Credit Cards in August 2024

Anyone who travels knows that having a premium travel rewards credit card can make a huge difference in your travel experience. These cards often include perks such as lounge access, rental car status, and fee reimbursements — all of which can save you money and frustration and generally give you a more relaxed experience at the airport.

There are, however, a large number of these credit cards on the market. Each of them has varying benefits, annual fees, and other discrepancies, so it can be hard for you, the frequent traveler, to pick the card that’s right for you.

But don’t worry — at Upgraded Points, we stay on top of the premium credit card world, so we can inform you about these cards and their respective benefits. With that in mind, we’ll take a look at some of the best premium credit cards on the market in this article, helping you find out which is best for your wallet.

We’ll start the article with a quick comparison of all the cards on this list and will then review each of these cards’ benefits, detailing personal cards first and then business cards.

If that sounds good to you, let’s get started!

What Is a Premium Credit Card?

Premium credit cards offer far more benefits than other credit cards. These benefits might include airport lounge access, priority security screening, elite status, annual statement credits, and large welcome bonus offers.

That said, this long list of benefits comes at a much larger price tag, as most premium credit cards come with an annual fee of $395 to $695, depending on the card. While that is a steep sum, these cards can be very worthwhile for those who regularly use the cards’ perks and benefits, so make sure to run the numbers for yourself to see if they make sense for you.

What To Look For in a Premium and Luxury Credit Card

All major credit card issuers, like American Express, Chase, and Capital One, each offer their own premium credit cards with various benefits such as lounge access, elevated points earning, the credit card bonus offer, and additional benefits and protections.

These benefits aren’t airline-specific in most cases, so you won’t necessarily need to fly on a specific airline all the time to get maximum value from your card. In fact, out of the 10 credit card recommendations in this guide, only 3 of them are co-branded with an airline.

With that in mind, you should look at whether you value points earning or travel benefits more when picking a card from this list.

Those who want access to more lounges and travel perks like hotel status may value a card like The Platinum Card^® from American Express, while those that value points-earning should compare the other cards and pick the card with bonus categories that best match their everyday spending habits.

We’ll start with our favorite personal card picks; after that, we’ll check out the best options for business owners!

The Best Personal Premium and Luxury Cards

BEST LOUNGE ACCESS

Terms Apply / Rates & Fees

The Platinum Card^® from American Express

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's 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.

Learn More(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 Platinum Card^® from American Express

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

Welcome Offer

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's Bonus Valuation*:

$1,760

Annual Fee

$695

APR

See Pay Over Time APR

Credit Recommended

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 (670-850)

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, 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)

Read Full Review

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. Apply and select your preferred metal Card design: classic Platinum, Platinum x Kehinde Wiley, or Platinum x Julie Mehretu.
• 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 with American Express Travel when you pay with 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.
• The American Express Global Lounge Collection^® can provide an escape at the airport. With complimentary access to more than 1,400 airport lounges across 140 countries and counting, you have more airport lounge options than any other credit card issuer on the market. As of 03/2023.
• $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: Enjoy Uber VIP status and up to $200 in Uber savings on rides or eats orders in the US annually. Uber Cash and Uber VIP status is available to Basic Card Member only. Terms Apply.
• $189 CLEAR^® Plus Credit: CLEAR^® Plus helps to get you to your gate faster at 50+ airports nationwide and get up to $189 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 $100 statement credit every 4 years for a Global Entry application fee or a statement credit up to $85 every 4.5 year period for TSA PreCheck^® application fee for a 5-year plan only (through a TSA PreCheck^® official enrollment provider), 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.
• Terms Apply.

Financial Snapshot

• APR: See Pay Over Time APR
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

American Express Membership Rewards

Terms Apply / Rates & Fees

Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's 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.

Learn More(at Capital One's secure site)

Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

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

Welcome Offer

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

UP's Bonus Valuation*:

$1,350

Annual Fee

$395

APR

19.99% - 29.99% (Variable)

Credit Recommended

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 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

Read Full Review

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 booked through Capital One Travel
• Earn unlimited 2X miles on all other purchases
• Unlimited complimentary access for you and two guests to 1,300+ lounges, including Capital One Lounges 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
• Elevate every hotel stay from the Premier or Lifestyle Collections with a suite of cardholder benefits, like an experience credit, room upgrades, and more
• Receive up to a $100 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck^®

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 19.99% - 29.99% (Variable)
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

Capital One Miles

 

Chase Sapphire Reserve^®

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's 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.

Learn More(at Chase's secure site)

Chase Sapphire Reserve^®

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.

Welcome Offer

Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $900 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Travel℠

60,000 points

UP's Bonus Valuation*:

$1,200

Annual Fee

$550

APR

22.49%-29.49% Variable

Credit Recommended

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 sort of hotel elite status

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $900 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.
• $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.
• Get complimentary access to DashPass which unlocks $0 delivery fees and lower service fees for a minimum of one year when you activate by December 31, 2027.
• 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 $100 application fee credit every four years for Global Entry, NEXUS, or TSA PreCheck^®
• Count on Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver, Lost Luggage Insurance and more.
• Member FDIC

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 22.49%-29.49% Variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

Chase Ultimate Rewards

NEW OFFER

Terms Apply / Rates & Fees

American Express^® Gold Card

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's 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.

This is the best card for food lovers who dine out at restaurants (worldwide), order take-out and want big rewards at U.S. supermarkets!

Learn More(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.

American Express^® Gold Card

This is the best card for food lovers who dine out at restaurants (worldwide), order take-out and want big rewards at U.S. supermarkets!

Welcome Offer

Earn 60,000 Membership Rewards^® Points after you spend $6,000 on eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Plus, receive 20% back in statement credits on eligible purchases made at restaurants worldwide within the first 6 months of Card Membership, up to $100 back. Limited time offer. Offer ends 11/6/24.

60,000 points + up to $100 back

UP's Bonus Valuation*:

$1,420

Annual Fee

$325

APR

See Pay Over Time APR

Credit Recommended

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 (670-850)

Why We Like This Card

The American Express^® Gold Card is a game-changer.

With this card, you can earn 4x Membership Rewards points at restaurants, up to $50,000 per calendar year, and you’ll also earn 4x Membership Rewards points at U.S. supermarkets on up to $25,000 per calendar year, then 1x.

There isn’t another card on the market that offers a 1-2 punch like this. Of course, there are several other benefits of the Gold Card as well, including extra monthly dining rewards and more.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 4x points per dollar at restaurants worldwide, up to $50,000 per calendar year; then 1x thereafter
• 4x points per dollar at U.S. supermarkets, up to $25,000 per calendar year; then 1x thereafter
• 3x points per dollar on flights purchased directly from airlines or at AmexTravel.com

Cons

• $325 annual fee (rates and fees)
• No lounge access

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Earn 60,000 Membership Rewards^® Points after you spend $6,000 on eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Plus, receive 20% back in statement credits on eligible purchases made at restaurants worldwide within the first 6 months of Card Membership, up to $100 back. Limited time offer. Offer ends 11/6/24.
• Get the American Express^® Gold Card in either the Gold, Rose Gold or Limited-Edition White Gold metal design. White Gold design is only available while supplies last.
• Earn 4X Membership Rewards^® points per dollar spent on purchases at restaurants worldwide, on up to $50,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
• Earn 4X Membership Rewards^® points per dollar spent at US supermarkets, on up to $25,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
• Earn 3X Membership Rewards^® points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with airlines or on AmexTravel.com.
• Earn 2X Membership Rewards^® points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels and other eligible purchases booked on AmexTravel.com.
• Earn 1X Membership Rewards^® point per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases.
• $120 Uber Cash on Gold: Add your Gold Card to your Uber account and each month automatically get $10 in Uber Cash for Uber Eats orders or Uber rides in the U.S., totaling up to $120 per year.
• $84 Dunkin' Credit: With the $84 Dunkin' Credit, you can earn up to $7 in monthly statement credits after you enroll and pay with the American Express^® Gold Card at Dunkin' locations.
• $100 Resy Credit: Get up to $100 in statement credits each calendar year after you pay with the American Express^® Gold Card to dine at U.S. Resy restaurants or make other eligible Resy purchases. That's up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.
• $120 Dining Credit: Satisfy your cravings, sweet or savory, with the $120 Dining Credit. Earn up to $10 in statement credits monthly when you pay with the American Express^® Gold Card at Grubhub, The Cheesecake Factory, Goldbelly, Wine.com, and Five Guys. Enrollment required.
• Explore over 1,000 upscale hotels worldwide with The Hotel Collection and receive a $100 credit to use towards eligible charges, which may include food and beverage, spa, or other on-property charges with every booking of two nights or more through AmexTravel.com. Credit use varies by property.
• No Foreign Transaction Fees.
• Annual Fee is $325.
• Terms Apply.

Financial Snapshot

• APR: See Pay Over Time APR
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

American Express Membership Rewards

Terms Apply / Rates & Fees

Delta SkyMiles^® Reserve American Express Card

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's 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.

Delta loyalists will love the fast track to Delta elite status, lounge access, baggage benefits, and upgrade priority with the Delta Reserve card.

Learn More(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.

Delta SkyMiles^® Reserve American Express Card

Delta loyalists will love the fast track to Delta elite status, lounge access, baggage benefits, and upgrade priority with the Delta Reserve card.

Welcome Offer

Earn 60,000 Bonus Miles after you spend $5,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.

60,000 Bonus Miles

UP's Bonus Valuation*:

$720

Annual Fee

$650

APR

20.99%-29.99% Variable

Credit Recommended

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 (670-850)

Why We Like This Card

The Delta SkyMiles^® Reserve American Express Card is a stellar option for frequent travelers who always fly with Delta thanks to its MQD Headstart towards status boost, lounge access, annual companion certificate, and many other great benefits.

Here is a full look at everything the Delta Reserve card can offer to you to help you decide whether the card deserves a place in your wallet.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 3x SkyMiles per $1 on Delta purchases
• 1x SkyMile per $1 on all other eligible purchases
• Card Members get 15% off when using miles to book Award Travel on Delta flights.

Cons

• $650 annual fee (rates & fees)
• No bonus categories other than Delta purchases

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Earn 60,000 Bonus Miles after you spend $5,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.
• Enjoy complimentary access to the Delta Sky Club. Effective 2/1/25, Reserve Card Members will receive 15 Visits per year to the Delta Sky Club; to earn an unlimited number of Visits each year starting on 2/1/25, the total eligible purchases on the Card must equal $75,000 or more between 1/1/24 and 12/31/24, and each calendar year thereafter. Once all 15 Visits have been used, Eligible Card Members may purchase additional Delta Sky Club Visits at a per-Visit rate of $50 per person using the Card.
• Receive four Delta Sky Club^® One-Time Guest Passes each year when you fly Delta so you can share the experience with family and friends.
• Enjoy complimentary access to The Centurion^® Lounge when you book a Delta flight with your Reserve Card.
• Receive $2,500 Medallion^® Qualification Dollars each Medallion Qualification Year and get closer to Status with MQD Headstart.
• Earn $1 Medallion^® Qualification Dollar for each $10 of purchases made on your Delta SkyMiles^® Reserve American Express Card in a calendar year and get a boost toward achieving elevated Medallion Status for next Medallion Year.
• Receive a Companion Certificate on First Class, Delta Comfort+^®, or Main Cabin domestic, Caribbean, or Central American roundtrip flights each year after renewal of your Card. The Companion Ticket requires payment of government-imposed taxes and fees of no more than $80 for roundtrip domestic flights and no more than $250 for roundtrip international flights (both for itineraries with up to four flight segments). Baggage charges and other restrictions apply. See terms and conditions for details.
• $240 Resy Credit: When you use your Delta SkyMiles^® Reserve American Express Card for eligible purchases with U.S. Resy restaurants, you can earn up to $20 each month in statement credits. Enrollment required.
• $120 Rideshare Credit: Earn up to $10 back in statement credits each month after you use your Delta SkyMiles^® Reserve American Express Card to pay for U.S. rideshare purchases with select providers. Enrollment required.
• Delta SkyMiles^® Reserve American Express Card Members get 15% off when using miles to book Award Travel on Delta flights through delta.com and the Fly Delta app. Discount not applicable to partner-operated flights or to taxes and fees.
• With your Card receive upgrade priority over other Medallion Members within the same Medallion level and fare class.
• Delta SkyMiles^® Reserve American Express Card Members with an eligible ticket will be added to the Complimentary Upgrade list, after Delta SkyMiles Medallion Members.
• Earn 3X Miles on Delta purchases and earn 1X Miles on all other eligible purchases.
• No Foreign Transaction Fees.
• $650 Annual Fee.
• Terms Apply.

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 20.99%-29.99% Variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

Delta SkyMiles Airline Loyalty Program

Personal Card Summary

*Effective 2/1/25, Reserve Card Members will receive 15 Visits per year to the Delta Sky Club; to earn an unlimited number of Visits each year starting on 2/1/25, the total eligible purchases on the Card must equal $75,000 or more between 1/1/24 and 12/31/24, and each calendar year thereafter.

Best Premium Card Overall

The Platinum Card^® from American Express

The Amex Platinum card is one of the most well-known travel cards on the market. It’s long been seen as a staple of luxury in the travel space due to its huge list of benefits.

Earn 5x Membership Rewards points on airfare booked through AmexTravel.com or directly with the airline (up to $500,000 per calendar year), 5x points on prepaid hotels booked through AmexTravel.com, and 1x points on all other purchases.

Most travelers get an Amex Platinum card to take advantage of the card’s huge network of lounges. This card offers access to American Express’ in-house Centurion Lounges (the U.S. and international locations), Priority Pass upon enrollment, Escape Lounges – The Centurion Studio Partner, Plaza Premium Lounges, select Virgin Clubhouses, select Lufthansa Lounges when flying with Lufthansa Group the same day, and Delta Sky Clubs when flying with Delta the same day.

Further, the card offers up to $200 in airline incidental fee credit that can be used to cover incidental fees — think baggage fees, priority boarding, and seat selection — incurred from 1 U.S. airline that you enroll in.

The card also has an assortment of other perks, too. Some of these include a Global Entry or TSA PreCheck fee reimbursement, up to $100 annual Saks Fifth Avenue credit, up to $200 prepaid hotel credit, access to the International Airline Program, and complimentary Gold elite status with Marriott Bonvoy and Hilton Honors upon enrollment.

What makes this card so special is its immense luxury travel and shopping perks (enrollment required):

• Access to Fine Hotels & Resorts and The Hotel Collection
• Complimentary rental car privileges with Avis, Hertz, and National Car Rental
• Up to $189 in CLEAR Plus credit
• Up to $200 in Uber Cash
• Up to $240 in digital entertainment credits
• Up to $12.95 in monthly Walmart+ credits (up to $155 per year)
• Up to $300 in Equinox credits

As you can imagine, the Amex Platinum card comes with state-of-the-art travel insurance, purchase protection, extended warranty, cell phone insurance, and, of course, no preset spending limit, which means your spending limit is flexible. Unlike a traditional card with a set limit, the amount you can spend adapts based on factors such as your purchase, payment, and credit history.

Hot Tip: Find out if you have the credit score required for an Amex Platinum card by reading our guide.  

Why We Like Earning Amex Membership Rewards Points

Amex Membership Rewards points are the most valuable transferrable currency available. We value these points at 2.2 cents each, making it possible to earn a return on spending of up to 11% with this card!

You can use Amex points for cash-back, statement credits, charitable donations, travel booked through AmexTravel.com, gift cards, online shopping, and more.

But our favorite way to use Amex points is for luxury travel when leveraging the Amex transfer partners.

Best Premium Cards for Flights/Travel

Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

We’re thrilled to see Capital One enter the premium travel rewards card space with the Capital One Venture X card. With its lower annual fee (rates & fees) compared to other luxury travel rewards cards, a frequent traveler can easily find enough value to exceed this annual outlay.

We like that cardholders can earn big when using Capital One Travel as hotels and rental car purchases earn 10x Capital One miles and 5x miles on flights booked via the portal. The earnings continue with 2x miles on all other eligible purchases.

Plus, for every card anniversary, you’ll earn an additional 10,000 miles. Add in a $300 annual Capital One Travel credit, airport lounge access (including a Priority Pass Select lounge membership and access to Capital One Lounges and Plaza Premium Lounges), a Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee credit, and complimentary Hertz President’s Circle status and you could find plenty of bottom-line value as a cardholder.

The card also comes with a generous welcome bonus offer, cell phone protection, car rental insurance and benefits, trip insurance benefits, up to 4 authorized users for no additional annual fee (rates & fees), and no foreign transaction fees (rates & fees).

Hot Tip: See how this card goes head-to-head with other premium credit cards in our articles comparing the Capital One Venture X card vs. Chase Sapphire Reserve^® and Capital One Venture X card vs. Amex Platinum card.

Why We Like Earning Capital One Miles

At redemption time, you’ll have strong choices including redeeming miles for travel via Capital One Travel or transferring miles to airline/hotel partners for even greater potential value.

You can also use your miles for gift cards, online merchandise, and statement credits.

We value Capital One miles at 1.8 cents each, which translates to a maximum return on spending of 18% when earning 10x miles.

Chase Sapphire Reserve^®

The Chase Sapphire Reserve card is Chase’s answer to the Amex Platinum card. However, this card replaces some of the flashy benefits with elevated points earning, making it better for customers who need a card that offers both premium benefits and great points earning.

To start with, the Chase Sapphire Reserve card almost always comes with a sizable welcome bonus. But where this card shines is in the realm of rewards:

• 10x Ultimate Rewards points on Chase Dining, hotels, and car rentals booked through Chase Travel
• 10x points on Lyft purchases through March 31, 2025
• 10x points on Peloton equipment and accessory purchases over $250 through March 31, 2025
• 5x points on airline travel booked through Chase Travel
• 3x points on all other travel and dining purchases — which includes fast food, cafes, Ubers, taxis, airfare, and much more

On the benefits side, some of the card’s most notable perks include Priority Pass lounge access, up to $300 annual travel credit that can be applied to any travel purchase, and a Global Entry, TSA PreCheck, or NEXUS application fee reimbursement.

With all of these benefits, it’s easy to see why this is one of the best Visa travel rewards cards available.

Uniquely, the Chase Sapphire Reserve card offers a 50% redemption bonus when booking travel through Chase Travel, as well as the ability to use Pay Yourself Back for up to 50% in bonus value on select rotating categories. This will get you a redemption value of 1.5 cents per point!

Plus, you can access the Chase Luxury Hotel & Resort Collection, as well as top-shelf travel insurance, which includes primary rental car insurance using the Chase Sapphire Reserve card.

Lastly, the Chase Sapphire Reserve card has no foreign transaction fees, purchase protection, and extended warranty.

Why We Like Earning Chase Ultimate Rewards Points

Chase Ultimate Rewards points are some of the most valuable points in the world. We value them at 2 cents per point, as you can get better value if you transfer points to one of the Chase transfer partners for award travel.

Other ways to redeem your points include travel booked through Chase Travel at a 1.5 cents per point value, Pay Yourself Back, statement credits, gift cards, charitable donations, gift cards, and merchandise.

But to get the best value, we recommend sticking to Chase’s transfer partnerships for luxury flights and hotels!

Best Premium Card for Dining

American Express^® Gold Card

Hot Tip: Check to see if you’re eligible for a welcome bonus offer of up to 90,000 points with the Amex Gold card. The current public offer is 60,000 points + up to $100 back. (This targeted offer was independently researched and may not be available to all applicants.)

One of our favorite cards, the Amex Gold card offers amazing rewards with an exceptional welcome bonus. Here’s how the earnings are broken down:

• 4x Membership Rewards points at restaurants (up to $50,000 per year)
• 4x points at U.S. supermarkets (up to $25,000 per year)
• 3x points on flights purchased directly with the airline or at AmexTravel.com
• 1x points on all other purchases

Earning 4x points translates to a return on spending of 8.8%, based on our valuations, which is huge!

The Amex Gold card comes with up to $120 in Uber Cash per year ($10 per month) for rides and Uber Eats orders in the U.S., up to $120 in dining credits ($10 per month) at Grubhub, The Cheesecake Factory, Goldbelly, Wine.com, and Five Guys, up to $100 in Resy credits ($50 semi-annually), and up to $84 in Dunkin’ credits ($7 per month).

With this card, you can book stays at The Hotel Collection, too.

There are also no foreign transaction fees, no additional annual fees for authorized users, purchase protection, extended warranty, and no preset spending limit (rates & fees).

Best Premium Card for Delta Flyers

Delta SkyMiles^® Reserve American Express Card

The Delta Reserve card is one of the most valuable premium airline credit cards. As you’d expect, the card includes some amazing benefits for frequent Delta flyers.

To start with, the welcome offer will definitely accelerate your points earning. Here is the accrual structure:

• 3x Delta SkyMiles on Delta purchases
• 1x Delta SkyMiles on all other purchases

Although the earning structure isn’t fantastic, we love the fact that you’ll get a ton of Delta perks with this card:

• Complimentary Delta Sky Club access when flying same-day on Delta Air Lines*
• Complimentary Centurion Lounge or Escape Lounge — The Centurion Studio Partner access when you book a Delta flight with your card
• An account anniversary companion certificate every year upon card renewal, which is good for a First Class, Delta Comfort+, or Main Cabin domestic, Caribbean, or Central American roundtrip flights to select destinations
• Priority boarding for yourself and up to 8 companions on the same reservation
• First checked bag for free for yourself and up to 8 companions on the same reservation

Lastly, there are a few non-Delta perks, like the Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee credit, travel insurance, purchase protection, extended warranty, cell phone insurance, and no foreign transaction fees (rates & fees).

*Effective 2/1/25, Reserve Card Members will receive 15 Visits per year to the Delta Sky Club; to earn an unlimited number of Visits each year starting on 2/1/25, the total eligible purchases on the Card must equal $75,000 or more between 1/1/24 and 12/31/24, and each calendar year thereafter.

Why We Like Earning Delta SkyMiles

According to our valuation of Delta SkyMiles of 1.2 cents per mile, your return on spending maxes out at 3.6%.

Of course, it’s possible to achieve a higher redemption value if you book international premium cabin flights on Delta and its airline partners.

Bottom Line: You should only consider a premium airline credit card if you are loyal to a specific U.S. airline — otherwise, you’re better off with a general travel credit card that provides a wider range of benefits.

Best Premium Cards for Business

ELEVATED OFFER

Terms Apply / Rates & Fees

The Business Platinum Card^® from American Express

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's 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.

This card is ideal for business travelers who enjoy luxury travel and are looking for a card loaded with benefits!

Learn More(at Amex's secure site)

The Business Platinum Card^® from American Express

This card is ideal for business travelers who enjoy luxury travel and are looking for a card loaded with benefits!

Welcome Offer

Earn 150,000 Membership Rewards^® points after you spend $20,000 in eligible purchases on the Card within the first 3 months of Card Membership.

150,000 points

UP's Bonus Valuation*:

$3,300

Annual Fee

$695

APR

19.49% - 28.49% Variable

Credit Recommended

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 (670-850)

Why We Like This Card

The Business Platinum Card^® from American Express is a premium travel rewards card tailored toward business owners who are frequent travelers with a high number of annual expenses.

When you factor in the large number of perks that the card offers like the best airport lounge access at over 1,400 lounges, along with tons of annual credits, it’s easy to see why this card can is a top option for frequent traveling business owners.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 5x Membership Rewards points per $1 on flights and prepaid hotels at Amex Travel
• Access to over 1,400 worldwide airport lounges as part of the American Express Global Lounge Collection
• Get 50% more Membership Rewards points (1.5 points per $1) on eligible purchases in key business categories, as well as on purchases of $5,000 or more (cap applies)

Cons

• High annual fee of $695 (rates & fees)
• Airline fee credit does not cover airfare, only incidentals like checked bags

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Welcome Offer: Earn 150,000 Membership Rewards^® points after you spend $20,000 in eligible purchases on the Card within the first 3 months of Card Membership.
• 5X Membership Rewards^® points on flights and prepaid hotels on AmexTravel.com, and 1X points for each dollar you spend on eligible purchases.
• Earn 1.5X points (that’s an extra half point per dollar) on each eligible purchase at US construction material, hardware suppliers, electronic goods retailers, and software & cloud system providers, and shipping providers, as well as on purchases of $5,000 or more everywhere else, on up to $2 million of these purchases per calendar year.
• Unlock over $1,000 in statement credits on select purchases, including tech, recruiting and wireless in the first year of membership with the Business Platinum Card^®. Enrollment required. See how you can unlock over $1,000 annually in credits on select purchases with the Business Platinum Card^®, here.
• $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 the Card.
• $189 CLEAR^® Plus Credit: Use your card and get up to $189 in statement credits per calendar year on your CLEAR^® Plus Membership (subject to auto-renewal) when you use the Business Platinum Card^®.
• The American Express Global Lounge Collection^® can provide an escape at the airport. With complimentary access to more than 1,400 airport lounges across 140 countries and counting, you have more airport lounge options than any other credit card issuer on the market as of 03/2023.
• $695 Annual Fee.
• Terms Apply.

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 19.49% - 28.49% Variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

American Express Membership Rewards

100K OFFER

Terms Apply / Rates & Fees

American Express^® Business Gold Card

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's 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.

Get 4x points in 2 select categories where your business spends the most each month (on your first $150,000 spent each year).

Learn More(at Amex's secure site)

American Express^® Business Gold Card

Get 4x points in 2 select categories where your business spends the most each month (on your first $150,000 spent each year).

Welcome Offer

Earn 100,000 Membership Rewards^® points after you spend $15,000 on eligible purchases with the Business Gold Card within the first 3 months of Card Membership.*

100,000 Points

UP's Bonus Valuation*:

$2,200

Annual Fee

$375

APR

19.49% - 28.49% Variable,0% on purchases for 6 months from date of account opening

Credit Recommended

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 (670-850)

Why We Like This Card

The American Express^® Business Gold Card is excellent at racking up rewards for your business spend.

The card earns a whopping 4x points per $1 in the 2 categories (from a list of 6) that your business spends the most money on each month. With no need to opt-in or preselect your categories, so you can focus on what matters most — running your business.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 4x points per dollar spent on your 2 highest purchase categories each month up to $150,000 each calendar year in purchases; categories include:
  • NEW! Transit purchases including trains, taxicabs, rideshare services, ferries, tolls, parking, buses, and subways
  • NEW! U.S. purchases made from electronic goods retailers and software & cloud system providers
  • NEW! Monthly wireless telephone service charges made directly from a wireless telephone service provider in the U.S.
  • U.S. purchases at gas stations
  • U.S. purchases at restaurants, including takeout and delivery
  • Purchases at U.S. media providers for advertising in select media (online such as Google Ads, Facebook Ads, plus TV and radio)
• 3x points per dollar on flights and prepaid hotels booked on amextravel.com using your Business Gold Card
• Access to Amex’s The Hotel Collection

Cons

• $375 annual fee (rates and fees)
• No elite travel benefits like airport lounge access or elite status

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Welcome Offer: Earn 100,000 Membership Rewards^® points after you spend $15,000 on eligible purchases with the Business Gold Card within the first 3 months of Card Membership.*
• 0% Intro APR ¤ for 6 months from the date of account opening on purchases eligible for Pay Over Time, then a 19.49% to 28.49% variable APR.*
• Earn 4X Membership Rewards^® points on the top two eligible categories where your business spends the most each month from 6 eligible categories. While your top 2 categories may change, you will earn 4X points on the first $150,000 in combined purchases from these categories each calendar year (then 1X thereafter). Only the top 2 categories each billing cycle will count towards the $150,000 cap.*
• Earn 3X Membership Rewards^® points on flights and prepaid hotels booked on amextravel.com using your Business Gold Card.*
• Earn up to $20 in statement credits monthly after you use the Business Gold Card for eligible U.S. purchases at FedEx, Grubhub, and Office Supply Stores. This can be an annual savings of up to $240. Enrollment required.
• Get up to a $12.95** statement credit back each month after you pay for a monthly Walmart+ membership (subject to auto-renewal) with your Business Gold Card. **Up to $12.95 plus applicable taxes on one membership fee.*
• The Business Gold Card now comes in three metal designs: Gold, Rose Gold and Limited Edition White Gold. White Gold design is only available while supplies last. Make your selection when you apply on Americanexpress.com.
• *Terms Apply

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 19.49% - 28.49% Variable,0% on purchases for 6 months from date of account opening
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

American Express Membership Rewards

LIMITED TIME OFFER

Ink Business Preferred^® Credit Card

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's 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 Ink Business Preferred card is hard to beat, with a huge welcome bonus offer and 3x points per $1 on the first $150,000 in so many business categories.

Learn More(at Chase's secure site)

Ink Business Preferred^® Credit Card

The Ink Business Preferred card is hard to beat, with a huge welcome bonus offer and 3x points per $1 on the first $150,000 in so many business categories.

Welcome Offer

Earn 120k bonus points after you spend $8,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $1,200 cash back or $1,500 toward travel when redeemed through Chase Travel℠

120,000 Points

UP's Bonus Valuation*:

$2,400

Annual Fee

$95

APR

21.24%-26.24% Variable

Credit Recommended

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 (670-850)

Why We Like This Card

The Ink Business Preferred^® Credit Card is a powerhouse for earning lots of points from your business purchases, especially for business owners that spend regularly on ads.

Plus the card offers flexible redemption options, including access to Chase airline and hotel transfer partners where you can achieve outsized value.

Business owners will also love the protections the card provides like excellent cell phone insurance, rental car insurance, purchase protection, and more.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 3x Ultimate Rewards points per $1 on up to $150,000 in combined purchases on internet, cable and phone services, shipping expenses, travel, and ads purchased with search engines or social media sites
• Cell phone protection
• Purchase protection

Cons

• No elite travel benefits like airport lounge access

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Earn 120k bonus points after you spend $8,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $1,200 cash back or $1,500 toward travel when redeemed through Chase Travel℠
• Earn 3 points per $1 on the first $150,000 spent on travel and select business categories each account anniversary year. Earn 1 point per $1 on all other purchases
• Round-the-clock monitoring for unusual credit card purchases
• With Zero Liability you won't be held responsible for unauthorized charges made with your card or account information.
• Redeem points for cash back, gift cards, travel and more - your points don't expire as long as your account is open
• Points are worth 25% more when you redeem for travel through Chase Travel℠
• Purchase Protection covers your new purchases for 120 days against damage or theft up to $10,000 per claim and $50,000 per account.
• Member FDIC

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 21.24%-26.24% Variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

Chase Ultimate Rewards

Capital One Venture X Business Card

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's 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 Business card offers at least 2x miles on all purchases, and comes packed with premium perks.

Capital One Venture X Business Card

The Capital One Venture X Business card offers at least 2x miles on all purchases, and comes packed with premium perks.

Welcome Offer

Earn 150,000 bonus miles once you spend $30,000 in the first 3 months from account opening

150,000 miles

UP's Bonus Valuation*:

$2,700

Annual Fee

$395

APR

All charges made on this account are due and payable in full when you receive your periodic statement. The minimum payment due is the New Balance as indicated on your statement.

Why We Like This Card

The information regarding the Capital One Venture X Business card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer.

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The Capital One Venture X Business card is a great all-around premium rewards card that helps you rack up miles on all of your business expenses.

From 2x miles on all purchases, airport lounge access, an annual travel credit, complimentary employee cards, and more, there is plenty to love about the Capital One Venture X Business card.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 10x miles per $1 on hotels and rental cars purchased through Capital One Travel
• 5x miles per $1 on flights purchased through Capital One Travel
• 2x miles per $1 on all other purchases

Cons

• $395 annual fee (rates and fees)
• 10x and 5x bonus categories are limited to Capital One Travel bookings

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Earn unlimited 2X miles on every purchase, everywhere—with no limits or category restrictions
• This card has no preset spending limit, so you get purchasing power that adapts to your spending needs. The annual fee on this card is $395
• Earn 150,000 bonus miles once you spend $30,000 in the first 3 months from account opening
• Redeem your miles on flights, hotels and more. Plus, transfer your miles to any of the 15+ travel loyalty programs
• Earn unlimited 10X miles on hotels and rental cars and 5X miles on flights booked through Capital One Travel, where you’ll get the best prices on thousands of options
• Every year, you’ll get 10,000 bonus miles after your account anniversary date. Plus, receive an annual $300 credit for bookings through Capital One Travel
• Empower your teams to make business purchases while earning rewards on their transactions, with free employee and virtual cards. Plus, automatically sync your transaction data with your accounting software and pay your vendors with ease
• Skip the lines with up to a $100 statement credit on TSA PreCheck^® or Global Entry. Then enjoy unlimited complimentary access to Capital One Lounges and a network of 1,300+ lounges worldwide, including Priority Pass™ and Plaza Premium Group lounges
• This is a pay-in-full card, so your balance is due in full every month
• Elevate your stay at luxury hotels and resorts from the Premier Collection with a $100 experience credit and other premium benefits on every booking

Financial Snapshot

• APR: All charges made on this account are due and payable in full when you receive your periodic statement. The minimum payment due is the New Balance as indicated on your statement.
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

Capital One Miles

Terms Apply / Rates & Fees

Delta SkyMiles^® Reserve Business American Express Card

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's 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.

Receive priority boarding, complimentary access to Delta Sky Club and Centurion Lounges, concierge support, and an annual companion certificate.

Learn More(at Amex's secure site)

Delta SkyMiles^® Reserve Business American Express Card

Receive priority boarding, complimentary access to Delta Sky Club and Centurion Lounges, concierge support, and an annual companion certificate.

Welcome Offer

Welcome Offer: Earn 75,000 Bonus Miles after spending $10,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.

75,000 Bonus Miles

UP's Bonus Valuation*:

$900

Annual Fee

$650

APR

20.99% - 29.99% Variable

Credit Recommended

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 (670-850)

Why We Like This Card

The Delta SkyMiles^® Reserve Business American Express Card is a premium card option for small business owners who are both frequent travelers and Delta loyalists.

While the annual fee may be steep, the card comes loaded with perks and benefits that all frequent Delta flyers are sure to love. Let’s take a look at what makes the card unique, and why it may be a great fit for your wallet.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 3x miles per dollar on Delta purchases
• 1.5x miles per dollar on eligible transit, U.S. shipping and office supply stores, plus all eligible purchases after you spend $150,000 in a year
• Save 15% On Award Travel With TakeOff 15. Not applicable to partner-operated flights or to taxes and fees.

Cons

• High annual fee
• Does not earn many miles for purchases outside of Delta spend

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Welcome Offer: Earn 75,000 Bonus Miles after spending $10,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.
• Enter Delta Sky Club^® at no cost. Effective 2/1/25, Reserve Card Members will receive 15 Visits per year to the Delta Sky Club; to earn an unlimited number of Visits each year starting on 2/1/25, the total eligible purchases on the Card must equal $75,000 or more between 1/1/24 and 12/31/24, and each calendar year thereafter.
• Earn 3 miles per dollar on eligible Delta purchases.
• Get closer to elevated Status next Medallion^® Year with MQD Headstart and MQD Boost: receive $2,500 Medallion Qualification Dollars each Medallion Qualification Year and earn $1 MQD for each $10 on purchases with your Delta SkyMiles^® Reserve Business American Express Card.
• Receive a Companion Certificate on First Class, Delta Comfort+^®, or Main Cabin domestic, Caribbean, or Central American roundtrip flights each year after renewal of your Card. The Companion Ticket requires payment of government-imposed taxes and fees of no more than $80 for roundtrip domestic flights and no more than $250 for roundtrip international flights (both for itineraries with up to four flight segments). Baggage charges and other restrictions apply. See terms and conditions for details.
• With the $240 Resy Credit, earn up to $20 per month in statement credits on eligible Resy purchases using your enrolled Card.
• Earn up to $10 back each month after using your enrolled Delta SkyMiles^® Reserve Business American Express Card for U.S. rideshare purchases with select providers.
• Save 15% when booking Award Travel on Delta flights. Not applicable to partner-operated flights or to taxes and fees.
• Not a Medallion Member? Card Members with an eligible ticket will be added to the Complimentary Upgrade list, after Delta SkyMiles Medallion Members.
• As a benefit of Card Membership, you can check your first bag free on Delta flights, saving up to $70 on a round-trip Delta flight per person. For a family of four that’s a potential savings of up to $280 per round-trip flight.
• When you purchase a Delta flight with your Delta SkyMiles^® Reserve Business Card, you will receive complimentary access to The Centurion^® Lounge or Escape Lounge – The Centurion^® Studio Partner.
• Receive Zone 5 Priority Boarding on Delta flights; board early, stow your carry-on bag and settle in sooner.
• Elevate your travel experience with an annual statement credit of up to $250 after using your Delta SkyMiles^® Reserve Business American Express Card to book prepaid hotels or vacation rentals through Delta Stays on delta.com.
• Pay no foreign transaction fees when you travel overseas.
• Terms and limitations apply.

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 20.99% - 29.99% Variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

Delta SkyMiles Frequent Flyer Program

United Club℠ Business Card

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's 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 United Club Business card is a great option for frequent United flyers looking for United Club access.

United Club℠ Business Card

The United Club Business card is a great option for frequent United flyers looking for United Club access.

Welcome Offer

Earn 50,000 bonus miles + 1,000 Premier qualifying points (PQP) after $5,000 on purchases in the first 3 months your account is open.

50,000 miles

UP's Bonus Valuation*:

$600

Annual Fee

$450

APR

21.99%–28.99% Variable

Credit Recommended

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 (670-850)

Why We Like This Card

The United Club℠ Business Card is a premium card option for dedicated United loyalists seeking a card that offers complimentary United Club access, helps them earn and retain status, and doesn’t skip on the benefits.

From free checked bags to upgrades on award tickets and the ability to earn Premier qualifying points, there is plenty to the United Club Business card that United flyers are sure to love.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 2x miles per $1 spent on United purchases
• 1.5x miles per $1 spent on all other purchases
• Complimentary United Club membership

Cons

• $450 annual fee
• Earning rate for United purchases is poor compared to other United cards

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Earn 50,000 bonus miles + 1,000 Premier qualifying points (PQP) after $5,000 on purchases in the first 3 months your account is open
• Earn 2x miles on United purchases
• Earn 1.5x miles on all other purchases
• Employee cards at no additional cost
• United Club membership — up to a $650 value per year. Relax in comfort while waiting for your flight with complimentary beverages, snacks, high-speed Wi-Fi, and more
• Free first and second checked bags for you and a companion, save up to $320 per round-trip
• 25% back on United inflight purchases
• No foreign transaction fees

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 21.99%–28.99% Variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees: $0

Business Card Summary

*Effective 2/1/25, Reserve Card Members will receive 15 Visits per year to the Delta Sky Club; to earn an unlimited number of Visits each year starting on 2/1/25, the total eligible purchases on the Card must equal $75,000 or more between 1/1/24 and 12/31/24, and each calendar year thereafter.

**Effective 1/1/24, this benefit will no longer be available.

The Business Platinum Card^® from American Express

Hot Tip: Check to see if you’re eligible for a huge welcome bonus offer of up to 170,000 points with the Amex Business Platinum. The current public offer is 150,000 points. (This targeted offer was independently researched and may not be available to all applicants.)

Our favorite premium and luxury business card is the Amex Business Platinum card, which is the business version of the Amex Platinum card. Notably, the 2 cards have different perks and rewards structures.

To start off, you’ll enjoy a huge welcome bonus offer, plus the ability to earn up to 5x Membership Rewards points per dollar spent:

• 5x points flights and prepaid hotels booked through AmexTravel.com
• 1.5x points on eligible purchases in key business categories, as well as on purchases of $5,000 or more elsewhere (up to $2 million every calendar year)
• 1x points on all other purchases

You’ll also find that this card has some incredible statement credits for additional value (enrollment required):

• Up to $200 every year in airline fee credits
• Up to $189 every year in CLEAR Plus credits
• Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee credits
• Up to $400 every year in Dell credits
• Up to $360 every year in Indeed credits
• Up to $150 every year in Adobe credits
• Up to $120 every year in wireless credits

Check out these extra luxury travel perks:

• Access to Fine Hotels & Resorts and The Hotel Collection
• Access to the American Express Global Lounge Collection, including Centurion Lounges, Delta Sky Clubs (when flying on a same-day Delta flight), Plaza Premium Lounges, and Priority Pass lounges (upon enrollment)
• 35% airline bonus when using Pay With Points through AmexTravel.com (up to 1 million points back every calendar year)
• Complimentary Hilton Honors Gold and Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elite status upon enrollment
• Car rental status and/or benefits with Avis, Hertz, and National upon enrollment

The Amex Business Platinum card boasts cell phone protection, purchase protection, extended warranty, and no foreign transaction fees (rates & fees).

American Express^® Business Gold Card

Hot Tip: Check to see if you’re eligible for a huge welcome bonus offer of up to 110,000 points with the Amex Business Gold card! The current public offer is 100,000 points. (This targeted offer was independently researched and may not be available to all applicants.)

The Amex Business Gold card is a step down from the Amex Business Platinum card, but it can actually be the better choice for the right person.

If you’re looking to max out on rewards instead of benefits, the Amex Business Gold card could make more sense.

This card earns 4x Membership Rewards points on the top 2 categories in which your business spends the most every month (up to $150,000 in combined purchases every calendar year):

• Transit purchases including trains, taxicabs, rideshare services, ferries, tolls, parking, buses, and subways
•  U.S. purchases made from electronic goods retailers and software & cloud system providers
• Monthly wireless telephone service charges made directly from a wireless telephone service provider in the U.S.
• U.S. purchases at gas stations
• U.S. purchases at restaurants, including takeout and delivery
• Purchases at U.S. media providers for advertising in select media (online, TV, radio)

That 4x points structure is approximately equal to an 8.8% return on spending, which is huge. You’ll also earn 3x points per dollar on flights and prepaid hotels booked on AmexTravel.com and 1x points on all other purchases.

The Amex Business Gold card also offers the ability to make bookings at The Hotel Collection, travel insurance, no foreign transaction fees, and no annual fees for employee cards after the first employee card of $50 per year (rates & fees).

Ink Business Preferred^® Credit Card

One of our favorite business credit cards is the Ink Business Preferred card, which is issued by Chase.

Despite having a mild annual fee, it offers some incredible rewards that are second to none. But let’s pivot to the rewards, which consist of a bonus earning structure of 3x Ultimate Rewards points on the first $150,000 in purchases every cardmember year in these business categories:

• Ads purchased with search engines or social media sites
• Internet, cable, and phone services
• Shipping expenses
• Travel

In addition, you can earn 5x points on Lyft purchases through March 31, 2025. All other purchases will earn 1x points.

Other easy ways to maximize this card include the fantastic cell phone protection plan, purchase protection, extended warranty, no-additional fee employee cards, and no foreign transaction fees.

Capital One Venture X Business Card

As with the personal version of the card, cardholders of the Capital One Venture X Business card (Information collected independently. Not reviewed by Capital One.) earn 10x miles on hotels and rental cars purchases through Capital One Travel, and 5x miles on flights booked via Capital One Travel. Plus, cardholders enjoy an uncapped 2x miles per $1 on all other eligible purchases.

While the card does charge a $395 annual fee, you’ll receive a $300 annual Capital One Travel credit and 10,000-anniversary bonus miles to help offset that fee.

These are in addition to perks like airport lounge access, a Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee credit, rental car insurance, cell phone protection, trip delay insurance, free employee cards, and more.

Delta SkyMiles^® Reserve Business American Express Card

The Delta Reserve Business card could become your best friend if you’re a business owner that frequently flies on Delta.

In fact, it’s one of the few credit cards that can help business owners get closer to valuable Delta elite status.

Currently, you’ll earn up to 3x Delta SkyMiles per dollar spent, as well as a welcome bonus:

• 3x Delta SkyMiles on Delta purchases
• 1.5x Delta SkyMiles after you spend $150,000 in a calendar year
• 1x Delta SkyMiles on all other purchases

Much like the Delta Reserve card we discussed in the personal cards section above, the Delta Reserve Business card has a series of amazing Delta perks:

• A complimentary round-trip companion certificate every year after you renew your card on First Class, Delta Comfort+^®, or Main Cabin domestic, Caribbean, or Central American flights
• Complimentary Delta Sky Club access when flying on Delta on the same day*
• Complimentary Centurion Lounge and Escape Lounges — The Centurion Studio Partner access when you purchase your Delta flight with your Delta Reserve Business card
• 2 Delta Sky Club 1-time guest passes every year
• Priority boarding for yourself and up to 8 companions on the same reservation
• First checked bag free for yourself and up to 8 companions on the same reservation

You’ll also enjoy a TSA PreCheck or Global Entry application fee credit, travel insurance, cell phone protection, purchase protection, extended warranty, employee cards for no additional annual fee, and no foreign transaction fees (rates & fees).

*Effective 2/1/25, Reserve Card Members will receive 15 Visits per year to the Delta Sky Club; to earn an unlimited number of Visits each year starting on 2/1/25, the total eligible purchases on the Card must equal $75,000 or more between 1/1/24 and 12/31/24, and each calendar year thereafter.

United Club℠ Business Card

The last card we’ll discuss is the United Club Business card, which is Chase’s ultra-premium business credit card offered in partnership with United Airlines.

This credit card offers an impressive welcome bonus and the ability to earn up to 2x United MileagePlus miles per dollar spent:

• 2x United miles on United purchases
• 1.5x United miles on all other purchases

Most cardholders love the benefits you get when flying on United:

• Complimentary United Club membership
• Free first and second checked bags when you purchase your tickets from United with this card (terms apply)
• The ability to earn 500 Premier Qualifying Points (PQPs) for every $12,000 you spend on your card (up to 1,000 PQPs per calendar year)
• Premier Access services, which include priority check-in, security, boarding, and baggage handling
• 25% statement credit on United inflight purchases

Even better, this credit card has complimentary Avis President’s Club status, access to The Luxury Hotel & Resort Collection, travel insurance, purchase protection, extended warranty, and no foreign transaction fees.

Why We Like Earning United MileagePlus Miles

The United Club Business card earns United MileagePlus miles; according to our valuations of 1.3 cents per United mile, that’s equal to a maximum ROI of 2.6% when earning up to 2x miles.

That’s decent, but you can get a better redemption value by using those MileagePlus miles on international award travel in business or first class.

What Is the Highest End Credit Card?

The 2 highest end credit cards are the Centurion^® Card from American Express (Amex Black card) and the J.P. Morgan Reserve Credit Card. Both of these cards are invitation-only and very, very exclusive.

If you’re interested in learning more about these 2 exclusive cards, read our detailed comparison of the J.P. Morgan Reserve Card vs. Amex Black (Centurion) Card.

What Are the Best Credit Cards for High Income Individuals?

When it comes to premium credit cards, there simply isn’t a “one-size-fits-all.” The best credit card for you, regardless of your income, is the card that suits your travel preferences and spending habits.

If you are looking for a card that offers the best airport lounge access, then the Amex Platinum card would be the card for you. If you are a foodie who spends a lot on dining and at U.S. supermarkets, then the Amex Gold card would be a better fit. And if you are an optimizer, like many people in the points and miles community, you can also hold multiple cards for multiple purposes.

There is no right or wrong way to go about it. If your setup works for you, then it works!

Is a Premium Credit Card Worth It?

That depends on what you are looking for in a new credit card! If you are someone who travels often enough to take advantage of the card’s perks regularly and whose spending habits meet the card’s bonus categories and statement credits, then it is likely that a premium credit card would easily be worth it for you.

How We Selected the Best Premium Credit Cards — Methodology

At Upgraded Points, we evaluate the best premium credit cards based on the value the card can offer travelers. Our evaluation process analyzes each card based on important factors, including benefits, earnings structure, welcome bonus, redemption value/rewards program, and fees.

Here is some insight into our thought process when selecting the best premium cards:

Associated Benefits

The best premium cards should offer great travel and lifestyle benefits. This can include airport lounge access, complimentary elite status, annual statement credits, priority security screening, and discounts.

Earnings Structure

Even though premium credit cards are primarily about the perks and benefits they offer, you still want to ensure they can help you earn points toward your next vacation. In this case, we evaluate the strength of the card’s rewards program and bonus categories.

Welcome Bonus Offers

The welcome offer on a premium credit card is usually quite generous, which will help kickstart future award redemptions. Given that welcome bonuses are a one-time bonus and can be lucrative, they are a factor in evaluating cards.

We’ll provide you with the current information available for each card, but we encourage you to confirm the welcome offer and review earnings offers before applying for any card.

Fees

Most premium credit cards have rather large annual fees, so we take these into account as well. As with any rewards credit card, it is important to ensure you’re getting enough value from the card each year to justify it.

Redemption Value

Considering the premium credit card’s rewards program is very important to the overall value proposition of the card. We like to prioritize cards with flexible redemption options and access to transfer partners, as these cards usually offer multiple great options to get great value out of your points.

Final Thoughts

For most travelers, a general travel credit card like the Amex Platinum card, Capital One Venture X card, or Chase Sapphire Reserve card may be the best option. These cards provide great returns on everyday spending and excellent benefits like lounge access across multiple lounge networks and car rental status.

However, those who regularly fly a specific airline for work may prefer a premium airline credit card, like those offered by Delta. These cards can help you achieve airline status faster and will give you access to domestic airline lounges when flying on your preferred airline. This is especially important when you consider that Priority Pass has limited options when traveling domestically.

We showed you the best premium travel credit cards on the market. Picking a card from this list depends on what you value the most in your travel experience — but a general premium travel credit card is best for most travelers. These cards provide the widest range of benefits and will reward you for spending in certain categories.

But now we want to hear from you. What premium travel credit cards do you carry daily? Let us know in the comments — we’re excited to hear your take.

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For Capital One products listed on this page, some of the 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.

Enrollment required through Capital One website or mobile app. Upon enrollment, eligible cardholders will remain at upgraded status level through December 31, 2024.  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 cell phone protection benefit of The Platinum Card^® from American Express, The Business Platinum Card^® from American Express, Delta SkyMiles^® Reserve American Express Card, and Delta SkyMiles^® Reserve Business American Express Card, eligibility and benefit level varies by card. Terms, conditions and limitations apply. Visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company.

For the extended warranty benefit of The Platinum Card^® from American Express, Delta SkyMiles^® Reserve American Express Card, American Express Gold Card, The Business Platinum Card^® from American Express, and Delta SkyMiles^® Reserve Business American Express Card, eligibility and benefit level varies by card. Terms, conditions and limitations apply. Visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company.

For the purchase protection benefit of The Platinum Card^® from American Express, The Business Platinum Card^® from American Express, American Express Gold Card, Delta SkyMiles^® Reserve American Express Card, Delta SkyMiles^® Reserve Business American Express Card, and eligibility and benefit level varies by card. Terms, conditions and limitations apply. Visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company.