Amex Platinum vs. Chase Sapphire Reserve - The Points Guy - The Points Guy

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• Chase Sapphire Reserve is the best for earning thanks to its favorable everyday bonus categories that help you earn more points in the long term.

• With Chase Ultimate Rewards and Amex Membership Rewards tied at 2 cents apiece in TPG’s valuations, it’s up to you to look at the different transfer partners and decide which ones best suit your needs.

• Sapphire Reserve customers get a 50% bonus when redeeming points for travel directly through the Chase Ultimate Rewards portal.

• This gives you an absolute minimum redemption value of 1.5 cents per point, meaning you can book a seat on any flight that’s for sale, even if there isn’t award space available.

• Ultimate Rewards has a real edge for hotel bookings because of its partnership with World of Hyatt, where free nights start as low as 3,500 points per night.

• On the airline side of things, popular redemption options include United MileagePlus, Southwest Rapid Rewards, British Airways Avios, Virgin Atlantic Flying Club and Flying Blue (Air France-KLM) — though the last three also partner with Amex Membership Rewards.

• Some of the best are ANA Mileage Club

• However, if you opt to use your points directly through American Express Travel, you won't get nearly the value you do through Chase.

• Chase Sapphire Reserve comes out on top for redemption options since it offers a 1:1 transfer ratio for all of its airline and hotel partners, the Pay Yourself Back feature and more flexibility with its 50% bonus for travel booked in Ultimate Rewards.

• both cards feature airport lounge access and additional travel and food delivery credits,

• Up to $200 annual Uber Cash for eligible U.S. purchases ($15 each month, with a $20 bonus in December).

• Up to $189 annual Clear membership statement credit.

• Access to the American Express Global Lounge Collection, which includes Centurion Lounges, Priority Pass (excluding restaurants), Delta Sky Clubs on same-day Delta flights, Plaza Premium, Airspace and Escape lounges.

• Gold status with Marriott Bonvoy and Hilton Honors.

• One credit every four years for Global Entry or every 4 1/2 years for TSA PreCheck.

• while the $200 Amex airline credit only applies to select fees such as seat assignments or checked bags

• and you're limited to a single airline you designate each year.

• Another area where Amex excels is by offering Gold elite status with both Marriott and Hilton to Platinum cardholders.

• Amex Platinum is the clear winner when it comes to perks and benefits, which include its $1,400-plus in annual statement credits, expanded airport lounge access, travel protections, and elite status with Marriott and Hilton.