Obsessed With Metal Credit and Debit Cards? You Are Not Alone Obsessed With Metal Credit and Debit Cards? You Are Not Alone
Mutiple metal debit and credit cards

Obsessed With Metal Credit and Debit Cards? You Are Not Alone

Here’s a fun experiment you can try the next time you’re on Instagram: look for an ad featuring a credit card and see if there’s a comment reading something to the effect of, “Is it metal?” Yes, these days one of the star features of a credit card product has little to do with finance and more to do with material as metal cards have been all the rage among a certain demographic. However, while the novelty of metal cards was once reserved for top-tier products, the trend has expanded over time, with many debit cards now also following suit.

For those looking to ditch plastic and add a nice chunk of metal to their wallet (while also taking advantage of the perks and benefits that come with such offerings), let’s take a look at several metal credit and debit cards available, including the pros and cons of each.

Metal Credit Card Options

American Express Platinum Card and American Express Gold Card

American Express Platinum and American Express Gold Metal Cards

When you think of metal credit cards, one of the first ones to come to mind is the American Express Platinum Card. With a current annual fee of $695, the Platinum is the definition of a premium credit card — which also probably explains why metal credit cards have come to be seen as a status symbol in some circles. While you can check out my review to see all of the benefits that, in my opinion, make that $695 annual fee well worth it, let’s discuss the card itself.

As luck would have it, the Platinum recently saw an update and now allows users to choose between three designs: the classic one, one featuring art by Julie Mehretu, and the other featuring a design by Kehinde Wiley. For those curious, the card weighs 18 grams according to my scale. Anecdotally, older versions of the card apparently weighed slightly more before the plastic backing now employed to allow for tap-to-pay technology to work was incorporated. Also anecdotally, these two pieces of the card have been known to start splitting under certain conditions. Luckily, though, you can request a replacement card or new design at your leisure.

If that $695 annual fee is still too steep for you, the $250 annual fee Amex Gold Card is also made of metal. And, similar to the Platinum, it also now has multiple design options. In this case, you can choose between the regular gold and a newer rose gold (a once-limited edition offering that was made permanent in 2021). Aside from the design, the metal card is similar to the Platinum in terms of weight and plastic backing. Turning back to the practicality, the Gold card also has some more tangible and easy-to-use perks that make it a good pick for those seeking a metal credit card at a not-exactly-bank-breaking cost.

Chase Sapphire Preferred and Chase Sapphire Reserve

Chase Sapphire Preferred

Taking on the Platinum card for premium credit card supremacy is the Chase Sapphire Reserve. The battle between these two mainstays has been raging for years, with strong arguments on both sides. Personally, I prefer the Amex Platinum for its lounge access — although the $550 annual fee Reserve wins in terms of its travel credit and points-to-cash exchange rate. Because of this, I don’t have the Chase Sapphire Reserve but I do have its little sibling, the Chase Sapphire Preferred. As you may have guessed by now, both options offer metal cards.

I’ll admit that I was actually quite surprised when my Chase Sapphire Preferred card arrive and I realized it was metal. After all, the card only carries a $95 annual fee, which I didn’t think put it in the league of the Reserve or even the Amex Gold. In any case, the card is indeed metal but has a much different feel than the Amex cards. If I’m being honest, I wasn’t 100% sure the card was metal as it’s quite flexible and weighs a relatively light 12 grams on my scale. I’ve heard the Sapphire Reserve is similar, but can’t confirm as I don’t have one.

If it’s a heavy metal (the material, not the music) experience you’re seeking, you may be disappointed with what the Chase cards have to offer. Still, as I can attest to for the Sapphire Preferred at least, the cards do feel like a major step up from plastic. Plus, with both cards featuring some strong perks, either of these could be a good pick for reasons other than the weight of the card.

Apple Card

Apple Card

For those who want nothing to do with annual fees, there may be another option for you — well, assuming you have an iPhone, that is. Yes, one cannot talk about metal credit cards without mentioning the Apple Card. While Apple’s credit card offering (issued in partnership with Goldman Sachs) is most beneficial when used with Apple Pay, the company also made a splash when it announced that the physical card customers could order would be made of metal and, famously, feature no numbers.

Not only is the Apple Card made of metal but is specifically made from titanium. As a result, the card is a bit lighter than the Amex cards and is on par with Chase, yet feels less malleable. The card is also quite sleek with its nearly all-white design and smooth texture. Then again, this white design could be a fault as Apple has warned users about possible distortions that can happen when the card is placed in pockets and the like.

Personally, despite some valid criticism, I’m a fan of the Apple Card overall. And yet the physical card mainly stays on my desk since there’s no real reason to use it outside of Apple Pay. Nevertheless, there’s no denying that the titanium card is quite cool and is a fun little bonus for the no annual fee card to have.

Luxury Card (Titanium, Black, and Gold)

Luxury Gold Card

Rounding out my list of metal credit cards, I figured I should mention the Luxury Card. At this time, the issuer offers three tiers of this card: the $195 annual fee Titanium Card, the $495 annual fee Black Card, and the $995 annual fee Gold card. According to the site, each of these cards weigh 22 grams and are made with stainless steel — not to mention that the Gold Card is literally plated with 24k gold.

Let me just admit up front that I personally think these cards are ridiculous. Looking at the rewards and the annual fees, they don’t hold a candle to many of the other options we’ve already covered. In fact, between the name and the emphasis on the card’s weight, I’d have to speculate that these cards are made just for “flexing” on others with your cool metal card (I also think the Black Card is meant to be confused with the actual “black card”: the invite-only American Express Centurion. But, while I really can’t recommend these options, I figured I should at least mention them.

Metal Debit Card Options

Cash Card

Cash Metal Card

Incidentally, I figured I’d start with the newest metal debit card option to start off this section. A couple of months ago, while updating my review of the Cash App Cash Card, I noticed that, in addition to “premium” plastic options like Glow in the Dark, Cash App added metal card options. Currently, this includes a Black Metal card or a Chameleon Metal card. Just like with the regular Cash Card, these metal cards can be customized with your signature, Cash Tag, emojis, and whatever else. Then, your customized card is shipped to you and arrives in a nifty case.

While one of the basic Cash Cards is free and the special plastic ones like Glow in the Dark are $5, ordering a metal Cash Card will cost you $50. This total will be deducted from your Cash App balance once you finish designing your card and complete your order.

In my case, I decided to pick up a Chameleon Metal card for review. While $50 is steep just for a card, I do have to say that this one is pretty cool. Not only does it have my customized “Money@30” iconography on the front and a fun star I put around the chip but also has a pretty purple back. Also, this is actually the heaviest metal card I own, coming in at 22 grams on my scale. It’s also remarkably solid feeling, closer to an Apple Card than an Amex. So, while it’s hard to recommend spending a Grant on a card, the metal Cash Card is a cool option if you’re a debit fan. On that note, though, I would recommend picking up a free Cash Card either way just to make use of Boosts and other features.

OnJuno

OnJuno Metal Debit Card

If you want a metal debit card without paying a fee upfront, OnJuno may be an option. The account is one I’ve been trying out for a bit but have yet to fully review. Like other FinTech apps, OnJuno offers banking features and cashback opportunities but also integrates crypto trading and more. But what I want to focus on here is their Metal account option.

While all users can request a basic debit card to accompany their default virtual card, users can unlock a Metal upgrade by using the account to receive direct deposits. Specifically, you’ll need to direct deposit at least $250 a month in order to earn Metal status.

I actually only unlocked OnJuno Metal on the day I’m writing this. Thus, my card has yet to arrive (but should be here in 7 to 10 days). To my surprise, it only took a single payroll direct deposit to trigger this upgrade, with OnJuno emailing me a day after the deposit cleared to let me know I was eligible. Then, all I needed to do was confirm my address and order my card. In my opinion, $250 a month is a completely reasonable direct deposit amount (you can even arrange your payroll so that a percentage of your check goes to OnJuno while directing the rest elsewhere) and I like that Metal comes with other perks. Although I will need to wait and see how the card itself is, I could see this being a good pick with low stakes.

Revolut

Revolut Metal Debit Card

Returning to paid options, Revolut also offers a tier of service aptly named Metal. Unlike the Cash Card’s one-time fee or OnJuno’s free upgrade with conditions, obtaining a Revolut metal debit card will require either a monthly or annual fee. Currently, Revolut Metal comes at a cost of $16.99 a month or $149.99 for a year if you pay upfront. With this upgrade, you’ll be able to choose a metal card in black, gold, space grey, rose gold, or silver.

Of course, thankfully, Revolut Metal doesn’t just include a card upgrade. Instead, the subscription includes such benefits as global travel insurance, some airport lounge access, unlimited no-fee foreign currency exchange, and more. By the way, between free and Metal there is also a Premium tier with some added perks and an enhanced plastic card — but I think Metal is the better bet if you’re going to go for it.

Although I no longer have Metal, I did for a year… that just happened to be 2020. Therefore, I didn’t exactly make use of the lounge access or travel insurance perks. But, as for the card itself, I am a big fan of the rose gold one I picked up. In fact, I’d say it’s far more “rose gold” than the Amex one is. Admittedly, because I like the look of the card so much, I do leave it in my card carrier even though I don’t use it that often. That said, despite downgrading back to basic after my year was over, my metal card does still work. Overall, if you can make use of the other perks, the metal card is a nice added benefit — but I really don’t recommend spending $150 a year or more if you only want the card.

Cred.ai

Cred.ai Metal Debit Card

Lastly, we come to Cred.ai. While this is a debit card, the platform does allow you to use your account kind of like a secured credit card. In other words, when you open a Cred.ai account, the company will report a credit limit and on-time payments to credit bureaus, helping you to build and establish credit. While that’s pretty cool on its own, the metal card that the account comes with by default is also pretty baller (as the kids say).

What stands out about the Cred.ai card is the design and the texture. First off, yes, the unicorn on the front looks awesome. But equally as cool is the feel of the card thanks to the numerous black dots that grow in thickness toward the top of the card. At 17 grams, it’s not as heavy or as solid feeling as, say, the Cash Card, but it’s admittedly quite a nice piece of metal.

Of the debit cards on this list, I do think the Cred.ai card is probably the best bet for most people — with the possible exception of OnJuno. Not only is the card free but could also help you build credit. On the other hand, those who don’t really need another line of credit on their report might prefer something else. Still, true to its icon, this card is quite a unicorn at the moment.


As the list of metal credit and debit cards grows, there are now several different options for consumers to choose from — with each option carrying its own pros and cons. And while metal cards might be popular among those who think they’re cool, the truth is that there could also be environmental benefits to using metal as opposed to plastic (although more sustainable recycled plastic cards are also increasingly common). Ultimately, if it is a metal card you seek, be sure to weigh the associated fees, perks, and benefits against, well, the weight of the card itself before making your final decision.

Author

Kyle Burbank

Head Writer ~ Fioney
Kyle is the head writer for Fioney. He is a personal finance nerd, constantly looking for new apps and services to test and incorporate into his own financial game plan. In addition to his role at Fioney, he's written for other publications including Born2Invest, Lifehack, and Laughing Place, as well as his own site Money@30. He also creates personal finance and travel-related videos for Money@30's YouTube channel, which has garnered more than 2 million views. Currently, Kyle resides in Springfield, Missouri with his wife of 10 years. Together, they enjoy traveling (including visiting Disney Parks around the world), dining, and playing with their dog Rigby.

Other Articles by Kyle Burbank

Universal Credit Cards

Universal, FNBO Announce More Details on Rewards Credit Cards

After teasing new co-branded credit cards earlier this year, Universal Destinations & Experiences and FNBO have released more details on their two rewards cards. About the Universal Rewards card: Starting with the no-annual-fee Universal Rewards Visa, this new card will include both spending rewards and in-park perks. In terms of the former, cardholders can earn 2% back in Rewards on eligible Universal purchases. All other purchases earn 1% back in...
iPhone using Apple Pay

Apple Reportedly Ending Partnership with Goldman Sachs

It looks as though Apple and Goldman Sachs will be moving forward with a break-up of their partnership. What's happening: According to a new report from The Wall Street Journal, Apple has now proposed that it and Goldman Sachs end their contract within the next 12 to 15 months. This development comes after months of reports that Goldman had been looking to exit the agreement. The partnership was slated to...
mortgage contract and keys

Lessons From a First-Time Home Buyer: The Story of How We Bought a House

In 2015, my wife and I moved to Springfield, Missouri. At the time, while we originally elected to rent an apartment, we figured we'd eventually be able to buy a house here thanks to the lower cost of living and easy-going housing market. Despite this, although we'd revisited the idea from time to time, it seemed that something was always standing in our way. Most recently, this included interest rates...
The "Email" field is empty, you must enter some text to proceed.The text you entered in the "Email" field appears to be invalid, please edit it and try again
Get the Latest News Delivered to Your Inbox

FedEx Announces Winners of 11th Annual 2023 Small Business Grant Contest

Nearly three months after the entry period ended, FedEx has announced the winners of its 11th annual Small Business Grant Content. This year's event saw more than $300,000 in funds going to a variety of small businesses across the nation. Last month, the company revealed 100 finalists, with that list now being narrowed down to just 10 winners. This year's grand prize winners included KindVR, The Cupcake Collection, Up In...
Summer app

Student Loan Benefit FinTech Summer Raises $6 Million

For years, student debt has been one of the most talked about financial topics. What's more, while the debt itself has become a major part of many Americans' lives, discussion of student loans has become political due to efforts to forgive certain loan repayments. However, while we wait for resolution on that front, a FinTech that brings student debt benefit solutions to employers and consumers has raised a new round...
H-E-B and Central Market  credit cards

Imprint Launches Credit Cards from H-E-B and Central Market 

The FinTech Imprint is partnering with the popular Texas-based grocery chain H-E-B for a pair of new rewards credit cards. This week saw the launch of the H-E-B Visa Signature Credit Card as well as the Central Market Visa Signature Credit Card. With these two (nearly identical) options, customers will be able to earn rewards on groceries and beyond. First, both versions of the card earn up to 5% back on select...
Melissa Urban holding a Ness card

Health and Wellness Rewards Card Ness Partners with Whole30

In recent years, several unique rewards cards have come to market. These include offerings from FinTech startups as well as brands looking to do something special for their loyal fans. On that note, a recently-announced rewards credit card offering is now working with a popular brand to introduce new benefits for customers. This week, the Ness Card (which is issued by The Bank of Missouri) unveiled a new partnership with...
Choice Privileges Select Card

Choice Hotels, Wells Fargo Debut Choice Privileges Select Card

With spring well underway and the summer travel season now just around the corner, Choice Hotels and Wells Fargo have unveiled their latest co-branded credit card offering. Today, the two companies announced the Choice Privileges Select Mastercard. Carrying an annual fee of $95, this card will serve as the premium option in the hotel brand's new lineup. Looking at the Choice Privileges Select, it offers a mix of rewards categories....