Why Are Some Credit Cards Metal and Should You Use One?

Metal credit cards have been around for a while, and they're not just a novelty item. Some credit cards are made of metal due to the durability and premium feel they offer.

These cards can withstand scratches and wear better than traditional plastic cards. This is especially true for high-end credit cards that are designed to last.

Using a metal credit card can have its benefits, but it's essential to consider the pros and cons. Metal cards often come with higher fees, so you'll need to weigh the costs against the benefits.

Some metal credit cards also offer rewards and benefits, such as travel insurance and concierge services. These perks can be valuable, but they may not be worth the higher fees for everyone.

Metal credit cards are made from a variety of materials, but most commonly from titanium.

The trend of issuing metal cards started gaining momentum in 2016 with the launch of the metal Chase Sapphire Reserve, which quickly became popular and ran out of metal stock within days.

Some lenders issue metal cards to promote a certain image or brand, like American Express did with its titanium Centurion Card in 1999, which was designed to convey exclusivity.

Customers are drawn to metal cards, with 70% of respondents in a 2022 survey saying they'd choose a financial product with a metal card if all else was equal.

Metal cards are particularly popular among Gen Zers and millennials, who are expected to dominate future global spending.

Lenders want their metal cards to be the customer's top choice, known as "top of wallet", which can be helped by the hype surrounding metal cards.

Metal credit cards have become increasingly popular, and for good reason. They offer a range of benefits that go beyond just their unique aesthetic.

One of the main advantages of metal credit cards is their durability. Unlike their plastic counterparts, metal cards can last longer and potentially reduce the need for replacements.

Some metal credit cards come with advanced security features, such as RFID-blocking technology and EMV chips. This helps users feel more secure and reduces worries about identity theft and fraud.

Metal credit cards also offer a range of perks and benefits, including concierge services, travel benefits, and rewards programs. This makes them attractive to users who want to get more value from their credit cards.

Travel benefits are another key advantage of metal credit cards. Some cards come with travel credits, airport lounge access, and travel insurance, making them a great option for frequent travelers.

Here are some of the key benefits of metal credit cards:

Some credit cards are made of metal, but they're not as durable as you'd think. They can still fall apart over time, especially if you're a heavy user.

This is because metal cards often have a thin layer of metal, usually aluminum or stainless steel, sandwiched between two layers of plastic. This construction can lead to stress points where the metal layer is most prone to cracking.

You might have noticed that some metal cards have a more premium feel to them, but that's often just a result of the card's design and manufacturing process. It doesn't necessarily mean the card is more durable.

In fact, some metal cards are actually more prone to bending and warping than traditional plastic cards. This is because metal is a more rigid material that can be more difficult to shape and mold.

If you're a heavy card user, you might have experienced the frustration of a metal card bending or warping over time. This can be particularly problematic if you're trying to use the card for contactless payments or other high-tech features.

Luxury credit cards are a cut above the rest, weighing in at 22 grams - the heaviest metal credit cards available to consumers. This substantial weight is a result of the three different metallic compositions offered by the Luxury Card, each with its own unique annual fee and card benefits.

The Luxury Card's travel rewards are similar to those of the Chase Sapphire Reserve, but with a higher fee due to the use of gold instead of base metal. This premium material is a key factor in the card's luxurious appeal.

The Luxury Card's focus on aesthetics and prestige is a deliberate choice, reflecting the issuer's brand image. As Sufrin notes, "The card is the issuer's brand... It's really important that whatever that customer gets reflects what the issuer wants that brand and that brand image to be."

The Luxury Card's emphasis on luxury and exclusivity is evident in its design and benefits. For those who value prestige and sophistication, the Luxury Card is a top choice.

Here are the three Luxury Card options, listed from most to least expensive:

The Apple Card is a sleek and modern credit card made of titanium, weighing just 15 grams. It's a great option for Apple customers who already have a seamless experience with their devices.

You can earn cash back rewards daily with the Apple Card, which is a huge perk. The rewards are deposited into your Apple Wallet or linked bank account, making it easy to use the cash for your next purchase.

Here are the bonus categories where you can earn higher rewards:

Some participating merchants include Exxon, T-Mobile, Uber/Uber Eats, and Walgreens.

The Luxury Card is a premium option that offers a unique experience for its users. It comes in three different metallic compositions, each weighing 22 grams, making them the heaviest metal credit cards available to consumers.

Each metal construction option determines the annual fee and card benefits, with the most expensive option being made of gold. This card is similar to the Chase Sapphire Reserve in terms of travel rewards, but with a higher fee due to its gold material.

The Luxury Card offers a range of benefits, including a luxurious feel and a sense of exclusivity. Its metal construction is not just for show, but also provides advanced security features such as RFID-blocking technology and EMV chips.

Here's a comparison of the three metal construction options:

The Luxury Card's metal composition is not just a novelty, but also a reflection of the issuer's brand image. As Sufrin notes, the card is the issuer's brand, and the material used should reflect the image they want to project.