Deciding Between Amex Platinum and Venture X

Before I opted for the American Express Platinum Card, I took a good look at my wallet and the credit cards I was currently using. The hefty $895 annual fee of the Amex Platinum made me think twice about my strategy.

At that moment, I had only one card with an annual fee exceeding $200—the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card. With its $395 fee, Venture X has positioned itself as one of the more affordable choices in the premium credit card arena. So, the question nagged at me: Was it worthwhile to keep the Venture X once I brought the Amex Platinum on board?

After considering all the angles, I decided to hang on to both of these coveted travel points cards. Here are the key factors that shaped my decision.

Two Valuable Points Systems

I’m really into stacking up transferable points and miles from various major issuers. I put a high value on both American Express Membership Rewards points and Capital One Miles. Plus, having both types of currency opens the door to multiple redemption partners, giving me more options.

For instance, I like using my Capital One miles for Delta flights, often booking through Flying Blue, which is part of Air France-KLM Royal Dutch Airlines. Not long ago, I transferred 15,000 miles to book two one-way domestic Delta flights—pretty convenient.

Both cards come with enticing welcome bonuses:

• Amex Platinum: New cardholders can earn up to 175,000 bonus points after spending $8,000 in the first six months. According to TPG’s December 2025 evaluation, this bonus could be valued at around $3,500.
• Venture X: You can earn 100,000 bonus miles after spending $10,000 within the first six months. TPG estimates this would be worth about $1,850.

Preference for Paying with Venture X

I really enjoy using the Venture X card. It offers at least 2 miles for every dollar spent, which is a pretty solid return rate.

In contrast, the Amex Platinum offers just 1 point per dollar for most purchases, which, honestly, isn’t the best for my everyday spending. However, if you find yourself booking directly through American Express Travel or making hotel reservations with them, the earning potential is significantly better at 5 points per dollar, with the standard rate kicking in afterwards.

Access to More Airport Lounges

One of the main reasons I added the Amex Platinum was for its extensive American Express Global Lounge Collection access. Most of the airports I frequent have various options, and I particularly love the Escape Lounge at my local Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport. Given that I often fly to Charlotte Douglas and Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airports, I’m looking forward to taking advantage of the Centurion lounges there.

Also, if you’re flying through ATL on a same-day Delta ticket, you can utilize one of your 10 Delta Sky Club visits annually.

Maximizing Statement Credits

This is crucial when assessing if the annual fee is justified.

Amex Platinum Statement Credits

The Amex Platinum offers a variety of statement credits that I take full advantage of:

• Airline Fee Credit: I get up to $200 in statement credits per year for incidentals on one U.S. airline of my choice. I sometimes fly Delta, and I use this for baggage fees.
• Digital Entertainment Credit: Each month, I get $25 off my YouTube TV subscription, adding up to $300 in credits for eligible subscriptions annually.
• Restaurant Statement Credit: I recently spent $100 on a dinner date at my favorite local spot and got a rebate through the $400 annual credit offered at select restaurants that partner with Resy.
• Hotel Statement Credit: I booked two nights at the Reed House in Chattanooga, which ended up costing me just $236 due to the $300 semi-annual credit on prepaid stays booked through Amex Travel.

Venture X Travel Credit

Last year, I used this benefit to score $300 off a three-night stay at the Conrad Las Vegas, which was a nice perk.

When Keeping Both Might Not Make Sense

There are situations where maintaining both cards could be excessive:

• If you lack a structured plan to make the most of the statement credits available on both cards.
• If you don’t foresee visiting an Amex or Capital One lounge anytime soon.
• If you prefer simplifying to just one card.

If any of these resonate with you, I might consider downgrading to the Capital One Venture Rewards credit card, which has a far lower annual fee of $95.

Conclusion

I’ve got to say, my wallet feels well-rounded with both the Amex Platinum and Venture X in it.

With high earning rates, ample lounge access, and generous statement credits, these two cards work well together. Their strengths fill in each other’s gaps, creating a balanced setup for various travel styles.

I’m optimistic that these cards will enhance my travel experiences going forward—and they already are!