What Does Having a Metal Credit Card Mean? (2024)

FAQs

What Does Having a Metal Credit Card Mean? ›

Metal credit cards have been issued by some credit card issuers for many years as a premium credit card offering. They are typically specialty credit cards made of metal, like a platinum card, with various perks to cardmembers.

Metal credit cards have more perks and higher annual fees

For example, they often have larger sign-up bonuses, earn more rewards on purchases, and some also offer spending credits on certain types of purchases. The trade-off is that these cards have higher annual fees.

There are several metal credit cards available for consumers to apply for. Simply find the one that works best for you and apply for it. You'll also need to have a good enough credit score to be approved for the metal credit card that you want.

In reality though, the biggest benefit is often personal - metal cards are an understated status symbol, signifying wealth and prestige to others.

Metal credit cards are often marketed to those who travel extensively and have significant disposable income. They can have annual fees in the hundreds of dollars although they often also come with fantastic perks such as free airport lounge access, elite status in loyalty programs and travel statement credits.

As stated previously, you usually can't request a metal card from your issuer — you have to apply for one. However, there are some third-party providers willing to convert plastic cards into metal ones for a fee.

Some individuals may be drawn to the perception of prestige and exclusivity that comes with having a metal card. Durability and Weight: Metal credit cards are generally more durable than their plastic counterparts. They are less prone to wear and tear and may have a longer lifespan.

If you don't have a credit score of 700 or above, it's unlikely you'll qualify for a metal card. You can check your score for free on WalletHub. Pick a metal card that suits your needs. Many of the best metal credit cards offer lucrative rewards in exchange for a high annual fee.

It can be quite hard to get a metal credit card, considering that they typically require a good or excellent credit score for approval. Metal credit cards are often considered as premium or luxury cards. Many of them come with high annual fees and are geared towards frequent spenders.

Exclusive benefits: Many metal credit cards have benefits beyond durability and aesthetics. For instance, you can often earn a lucrative welcome offer; get airport lounge access, travel credits, trip insurance, and more with a metal card.

Are Capital One cards metal? ›

Yes, the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card (see Rates & Fees) is a metal credit card. The Capital One Venture (see Rates & Fees) Card is made of stainless steel and recycled materials and weighs around 16 grams, compared to 5 grams for a traditional credit card made of plastic.

One advantage metal credit cards have over plastic credit cards is their durability. Metal credit cards rarely get damaged the way plastic credit cards do, so you're less likely to need a replacement due to wear and tear. There is a tradeoff, though.

Only a few banks offer them, and none of the major U.S. financial institutions offer them at this time. There are some banks that pair metal cards with checking or savings accounts, but it's important to note that this isn't common.

Material advantage: Unlike the ordinary feel of plastic, metal offers a tangible sense of durability. It's not just about the card coming back intact after a wash or accidental bending; it's about a significant tactile feel, a sensation that screams luxury every time you use it.

Aside from being eye-catching, metal credit cards are also sturdier than traditional plastic cards, making them a popular choice for consumers. Chase offers many embedded metal cards, two of which are the Chase Sapphire Preferred^® card and the Chase Sapphire Reserve^® card.

The Amazon Store Card, on the other hand, is a plastic credit card. Having said that, you shouldn't worry too much about what your credit card is made of.

Metal wallets offer numerous benefits compared to traditional leather or fabric wallets. They are more durable and can protect your cards and cash from physical damage such as bending or breaking.

Metal cards are strong, luxurious, and secure, but they can be more expensive and may not offer contactless payment options. On the other hand, plastic cards are more affordable and convenient, but they may not be as durable and can be seen as less exclusive.

They are more durable, don't wear off or break easily, and have a shiny finish giving them a premium look. Banks provide metal debit cards for their elite and exclusive customers, offering them a better experience. You can also get special offers like high cashback, complimentary lounge access, etc.

While regular kitchen scissors aren't likely to do much damage against a metal credit card, you should be able to easily cut it into pieces with tin snips. Tin snips are shears used to cut sheet metal and other tough materials, and they should do the trick with any metal card you have lying around.