The Credit Ledger Comparison
American Express Gold Card vs Chase Sapphire Preferred Card
Both are strong cards, but they suit different spenders. Here is how they stack up on fees, rewards, and real value, with our independent take on which wins for you.
| Feature | American Express Gold Card | Chase Sapphire Preferred Card |
|---|---|---|
| Our rating | 4.1 / 5 | 4.2 / 5 |
| Annual fee | $325 | $95 |
| Welcome bonus | Up to 100,000 Membership Rewards points after $8,000 spend in 6 months (offer varies by applicant) | 75,000 to 100,000 bonus points after $5,000 spend in 3 months (elevated offer is limited-time) |
| Top rewards | 4X Restaurants worldwide, including takeout and delivery | 5x points Chase Travel purchases |
| Intro APR (purchases) | None | None |
| Intro APR (balance transfers) | None | None |
| Regular APR | 19.49% to 28.49% variable (Pay Over Time) | 19.24% to 27.49% variable |
| Foreign transaction fee | None | None |
| Best for | Best card for dining and U.S. supermarket rewards | Best mid-tier travel card with transferable points |
Choose the American Express Gold Card if
Best card for dining and U.S. supermarket rewards matches how you spend.
- Strong 4X earning on dining worldwide and U.S. supermarkets
- Over $400 in annual credits can offset the $325 fee for active users
- No foreign transaction fees
Choose the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card if
Best mid-tier travel card with transferable points matches how you spend.
- Strong sign-up bonus relative to a low $95 annual fee
- Points are transferable 1:1 to valuable airline and hotel partners
- Broad bonus categories beyond just travel
Frequently asked questions
Which has the lower annual fee, the American Express Gold Card or the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card?
The Chase Sapphire Preferred Card has the lower annual fee at $95, compared with $325 for the American Express Gold Card.
Do either of these cards charge a foreign transaction fee?
Neither card charges a foreign transaction fee, so both work well abroad.
Does either card offer a 0% intro APR?
Neither card currently advertises a 0% intro APR offer.
Rates and offers verified 2026-07. Terms change often, so confirm current details on each issuer's site before applying.