Most credit cards are standard – they are not always fun. Even the top credit cards are rather boring pieces of plastic that can bend and break over time. Metal credit cards, instead, are a new way to preserve your finances while adding a little style to your pocket. They have the same thickness as plastic cards, but they are understandably heavier. They are also far more durable than plastic and last longer. If durability and longevity interest you, these are the best metal credit cards. There is also 2% back at restaurants, gas stations, and drugstores and 1% back on all other purchases, including utilities and rideshare services. Certain products may also be eligible for discounts of 10% or more as a Prime member exclusive. There is also no annual credit card fee and no foreign transaction fees. Cardholders also get access to other perks, like travel and emergency assistance, reimbursement for lost luggage, travel accident insurance, and baggage delay insurance. For road warriors, there is roadside dispatch, along with auto rental collision damage waiver, purchase protection, and extended warranty protection. Pros Cons For your everyday rewards, Amex gives a monthly credit of $15 in Uber Cash that applies to both rides and Eats orders. Shop at Walmart, and receive a free Walmart+ membership when you pay with your Amex, amounting to $155 each year in savings. There is also up to $300 back on Equinox and Equinox+ memberships and $100 in annual Shop Saks statement credits to go toward your retail therapy. The rewards don’t stop there. There is also up to $20 back monthly for streaming services like Peacock, Audible, and SiriusXM. In addition to up to a $200 airline fee credit, American Express will add up to $189 annually in CLEAR® Credit. Pros
Intro offerBonus categoriesCan choose card style
Cons
Very high annual feeHard to track rewardsGood credit required
The APR is kept simple with one of three options: 20.24% - 28.24%. There is an annual fee, but it is cheaper than American Express with a cost of less than $100. There are no transaction fees, nor any transfer fee and Capital One does not charge for foreign transactions, making it a fantastic option for the world traveler. Other perks include complimentary 24/7 concierge and travel services with additional warranty protection on eligible items that are purchased with your credit card. When you are ready to redeem your rewards, PayPal is an option. Pros
Fantastic dining and entertainment benefitsNo foreign transaction feesFlexible rewards redemption
Cons
Excellent credit requiredNo intro APRAnnual fee
Miles can be redeemed via Capital One Travel with the option for reimbursement on past travel purchases. If you use Global Entry or TSA PreCheck, there is also a credit of up to $100 for your travels. Pros
Intro bonusElevated rewardsNo foreign transaction fees
Cons
High annual feeExcellent credit requiredBest for globetrotters and not occasional travel
Chase cardholders have the option to break up payments of $100 or more in fixed monthly payments. Pros
Great dining and travel rewardsIntroductory offer for bonus pointsTransfer partners
Cons
Must book through Chase for best rewardsNo intro APRAnnual fee
American Express will award a free night annually that you can use to treat yourself to a one-night stay at your favorite Marriott hotel. You can also earn a $100 credit and a special rate for a two-night stay at either The Ritz-Carlton or St. Regis Pros
Intro offer2-night hotel creditMarriott Elite program
Cons
Annual feeNo intro APRLimited Elite status
Fees: Credit cards often come with certain fees, such as an annual membership fee or foreign transaction fees when you use your card abroad. Be sure to review the fee schedule before committing to a card.Intro bonus: Many metal credit cards will offer an introductory offer as an extra incentive for you to sign up. This could include extra points or cashback, in addition to exclusive perks like travel or hotels. APR: The APR you receive determines how much interest you will pay for your purchases. It can vary considerably and is heavily based on the health of your credit history.Credit Score: Your credit score is a major factor in whether you are approved for a credit card and what APR you receive. Be sure to check your credit score before applying so you can choose the cards most likely to give you approval, as well as the best rates.
ZDNet can help you find the right credit card for your needs. Some other great options that almost made our list include these metal credit cards:
Apple Card:Best card for Apple purchasesAmerican Express® Gold Card: Designed for foodiesCapital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card: Premium travel rewardsMastercard Titanium Card: Heaviest metal credit cardSavor Rewards Credit Card: A great pick for dining outU.S. Bank Altitude Reserve Visa Infinite Card: Solid travel rewardsChase Sapphire Reserve: Flexible rewards
For more information on credit cards, check out our expert picks for the best crypto credit cards, the best starter credit cards, and the most exclusive credit cards of 2022!
