Amex Platinum Card
Amex Platinum Card holders have big changes to look forward to in 2025. Both the American Express Platinum and Chase Sapphire Reserve cards are getting major updates this year, signaling a fresh round in the premium travel card rivalry.
American Express has already confirmed that “major” upgrades are on the way. One top executive promised that the upcoming perks will “far, far, far exceed the annual fee,” a bold claim considering the $695 price tag.
This review will walk you through every confirmed change, break down the full list of benefits, and help you decide if the Amex Platinum Card still delivers enough value in 2025.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Confirmed: The Amex Platinum 2025 Refresh is Coming
American Express has officially confirmed that a refreshed version of the Amex Platinum Card is on the way. The company plans to launch the updated card in fall 2025, making this one of the biggest rollouts in the card’s history.
According to American Express, the new version will focus on enhancing popular benefits while adding fresh value across key categories. Experts in the credit card industry believe the refresh will bring more rewards in areas like luxury travel, dining, and lifestyle experiences.
There is also growing talk of a possible fee increase. While nothing has been finalized, it would not be unusual. Updates to premium cards often come with higher annual costs, and some insiders expect a new pricing model to reflect the added perks.
Is the $695 Annual Fee Worth It? A Complete Analysis
The Amex Platinum Card carries a steep annual fee of $695. That number can raise eyebrows, especially for people comparing premium cards. But the value lies in the perks, and for many cardholders, those perks can more than cover the cost.
Below is a simple break-even analysis that shows how everyday and travel-related benefits can offset the fee.
Benefit | Annual Value |
---|---|
Uber Cash Credits | $200 |
Airline Fee Credit | $200 |
Saks Fifth Avenue Credits | $100 |
CLEAR Plus Membership Credit | $189 |
Global Entry or TSA PreCheck Credit | $100 |
Digital Entertainment Credit | $240 |
Walmart+ Credit | $155 |
Total Estimated Value: $1,184
Even without using every perk, a typical user can easily receive over $695 in value each year. The key is knowing how to use the credits. If you travel often or take advantage of the card’s lifestyle perks, the annual fee can turn into real savings.
Full Breakdown of Amex Platinum Card Benefits
The strength of the Amex Platinum Card lies in its wide range of high-value benefits. These are grouped into three main categories. Each one delivers perks that can make the Amex Platinum Card feel rewarding from day one.
Travel & Lounge Access
- Entry to Centurion Lounges, Delta Sky Clubs, and Priority Pass Select locations
- Complimentary benefits with Fine Hotels + Resorts, including room upgrades and late checkout
- $200 airline fee credit with one selected airline
- Complimentary Hilton Honors Gold and Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elite membership
- Premium Global Assist Hotline for travel emergencies
- No foreign transaction fees
Dining & Experience Perks
- $240 digital entertainment credit for streaming services like Disney+ and Audible
- Up to $200 in annual Uber Cash, with $15 monthly credits and an extra $20 in December
- Priority access to hard-to-book restaurants through Global Dining Access by Resy
- Special event invites and pre-sale tickets through American Express Experiences
Statement Credits & Rebates
- Up to $100 reimbursement for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fees
- $100 Saks Fifth Avenue credit, split into two $50 credits per year
- CLEAR Plus credit of up to $189 per year
- Walmart+ membership credit covering the full monthly cost
- $300 Equinox credit available annually with enrollment
These Amex Platinum Card perks deliver strong value across travel, shopping, and daily services. The more you use them, the more the card pays for itself.
Amex Platinum vs. Chase Sapphire Reserve (2025 Showdown)
The competition between the Amex Platinum Card and Chase Sapphire Reserve is tighter than ever in 2025. Both cards target frequent travelers, but each comes with different strengths. Here’s a clear side-by-side look at how they compare:
Feature | Amex Platinum Card | Chase Sapphire Reserve |
---|---|---|
Annual Fee | $695 | $550 |
Lounge Access | Centurion, Delta Sky Clubs, Priority Pass | Priority Pass Select |
Travel Credit | $200 airline fee credit | $300 general travel credit |
Hotel Status | Hilton Gold, Marriott Gold Elite | None automatically |
Points on Travel | 5x on flights and prepaid hotels | 3x on all travel |
Points on Dining | 1x | 3x |
Statement Credits | Uber, Saks, Digital Media, Walmart+ | DoorDash, Instacart, Peloton |
2025 Refresh | Confirmed with new perks launching fall | Refresh expected but not detailed yet |
This breakdown shows that while the Amex Platinum Card offers more premium perks, especially for luxury travel and status, the Chase Sapphire Reserve leans toward simplicity and broad travel credits. The better fit depends on how you spend and which perks you value most.
Final Verdict: Who Should Get the Amex Platinum Card in 2025?
The Amex Platinum Card is best suited for frequent travelers and high spenders who want premium benefits, lounge access, and luxury perks. If you take full advantage of its statement credits and travel rewards, the value can easily exceed the $695 annual fee.
With the 2025 refresh confirmed, the card is becoming even more rewarding. American Express is doubling down on the features that matter most to cardholders. For those who travel often, enjoy exclusive experiences, or want elite status perks, the updated Platinum Card remains one of the strongest options on the market.
If you’re looking for a travel card that delivers more than just points, this card continues to set a high standard.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
When will the new Amex Platinum Card be released?
The refreshed Amex Platinum Card is expected to launch in fall 2025. American Express has confirmed that this update will be one of the most significant in the card’s history.
Will the Amex Platinum annual fee increase in 2025?
As of now, the annual fee remains at $695. However, fee increases often follow major card updates. While nothing has been announced yet, a change is possible.
What are the biggest Amex Platinum Card benefits?
Some of the top perks include:
Access to Centurion Lounges, Delta Sky Clubs, and Priority Pass
Up to $200 airline fee credit with a selected airline
$240 digital streaming credit
$200 in annual Uber Cash
Hilton Honors Gold and Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elite status
$100 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck
Is the Amex Platinum Card good for everyday spending?
It is not ideal for general purchases due to its lower point rewards in everyday categories. However, it shines in travel, luxury experiences, and premium services.
Can new applicants qualify for the upcoming benefits?
Yes. Once the new version launches in fall 2025, both new and existing cardholders will have access to the updated perks.