The Platinum Card® from American Express – In-Depth 2025 Review

Quick Stats at a Glance

Card Overview & Key Positioning

The Amex Platinum is widely regarded as a lounge-lovers’ dream— it unlocks the Centurion Lounge network, Delta Sky Club (if you’re on a Delta flight), and a Priority Pass™ membership (covering 1,300+ lounges worldwide). Priced at $695, it’s among the highest-fee personal cards, yet offsets that cost via airline fee credits, Uber and Saks credits, and competitive 5x earning on flights/hotels. For frequent travelers who prioritize lounge comfort, the Platinum stands out. Alternatively, if you prefer other premium solutions (Chase Sapphire Reserve, Capital One Venture X), you might weigh their lounge offerings. But for the broadest lounge coverage plus top-tier Amex perks, Platinum remains a prime pick in 2025.

Membership Rewards Earning Structure

The Platinum’s hallmark is 5x Membership Rewards points on:

• Flights booked directly with airlines or via Amex Travel (up to $500k per calendar year)
• Prepaid hotels booked on Amex Travel

Everything else typically earns 1x. While 1x is modest, the 5x on airfare can yield huge returns, especially if you redeem MR for 2¢+ each (transferring to airlines like ANA, Singapore, or Delta). The Platinum is primarily a travel companion, so if you want better everyday multipliers, you might pair it with an Amex Gold (4x dining/groceries) or a Blue Business Plus for 2x on everything. Still, the 5x flight sweet spot remains a top reason frequent flyers choose Platinum, especially combined with best-in-class lounge access discussed next.

Sign-Up Bonus & Redemption Potential

The Platinum’s sign-up bonus often ranges from 80k to 100k Membership Rewards after spending $6k in 6 months. Some targeted offers go higher (125k or 150k). At an estimated ~1.6–2.0 cents per MR point (when transferred to certain airline partners for premium cabins), 100k could net $1,600–$2,000 in flight value. Even if you redeem via Amex Travel at 1¢ each, 100k is $1,000. Factoring in the $695 fee, the initial bonus can easily offset your first-year cost if you maximize redemptions. Ongoing lounge usage also adds intangible value, saving $40–$80 per airport layover if you’d otherwise buy meals or day passes.

Lounge Access Intro – A Global Network

Arguably the Amex Platinum’s greatest allure is its multi-faceted lounge access:

• Centurion Lounges:Exclusive premium lounges in ~40+ airports globally. Known for high-quality meals, cocktails, and a refined environment— a step above typical airline lounges.
• Priority Pass™ Select: Over 1,300 lounges worldwide, though note that restaurant credits are typically excluded with Amex-provided Priority Pass. You still get lounge entry, but certain Priority Pass restaurants might not participate for Platinum holders.
• Delta Sky Club: When flying Delta same-day, show your Platinum Card + Delta boarding pass for access—no additional fee or membership required. This is a unique perk not found on many other cards (besides the Delta Reserve itself or higher).
• Airspace, Plaza Premium, Escape Lounges, Lufthansa (at select hubs): Amex often includes or negotiates lounge partnerships for cardholders. The network can shift, but expect a comprehensive coverage across major airports.

If you travel frequently, these lounge visits can easily recoup a large portion of the card’s annual fee. The next sections break down each lounge partnership and usage tips in detail.

Centurion Lounges – Flagship Experience

Centurion Lounges are Amex’s crown jewel, available only to Platinum (and Centurion) cardholders:

• Locations:Major US airports (DFW, MIA, SEA, JFK, LGA, SFO, LAS, PHX, etc.) plus a growing presence internationally. By 2025, new lounges or expansions might open in regions like ATL, LAX expansions, or additional global hubs.
• Access Rules: Typically same-day boarding pass required, limited guesting policy (often $50 for guests unless you meet spend thresholds or hold the authorized user card). Recent updates limit guests unless you spend $75k+ annually on the card or pay for an authorized user. Always confirm current T&Cs for guesting rules.
• Quality & Amenities: High-end chef-driven menus, full bar with craft cocktails, quiet work areas, sometimes spa treatments (e.g., DFW’s spa). Typically more upscale than standard airline lounges.

If you frequently transit airports with Centurion Lounges, the experience can be a game-changer. Superb food, top-shelf drinks, quieter ambiance, and occasional spa perks all add a dash of luxury that many travelers find worth the Platinum’s premium cost alone.

Priority Pass™ – Widest Coverage (Restaurant Limitations)

The Platinum includes a Priority Pass Select membership. This grants:

• Access to 1,300+ lounges in 140+ countries. Typically, you + 2 guests can enter. Additional guests might cost ~$32 each, though T&Cs can differ regionally.
• Exclusions:Starting a few years back, Amex removed the Priority Pass restaurant credit perk. So with Amex Platinum, you can’t use PP to get $28–$30 meal vouchers at airport restaurants. This is a key difference vs. some other PP-providing cards (like Chase Sapphire Reserve or Citi Prestige, which used to include restaurants).
• Lounge Range:From small “contract lounges” in regional airports to bigger networks like Plaza Premium (some, though not all, might also be accessible via Amex’s direct partnership). Access rules can vary—some lounges might limit hours or have capacity constraints, so it’s wise to check the Priority Pass app before traveling.

Even without the restaurant benefit, Priority Pass remains essential for travelers frequently passing through airports lacking Centurion or airline-specific lounges. The coverage is massive—particularly abroad—ensuring you almost always have a lounge option with your Platinum card. If you want restaurant credits, note that you’d need a different card (like the Capital One Venture X or older versions of CSR).

Delta Sky Club – When Flying Delta

Another standout lounge perk is Delta Sky Club access:

• Eligibility:You must be flying Delta same-day on a ticket (economy, business, or award). Show your Platinum plus your Delta boarding pass, no separate membership needed. This can save you $545+ vs. buying an annual Sky Club membership if you frequently use Delta.
• Guest Fees: Typically, it’s ~$39 per guest if you want to bring someone, though policies can shift. Platinum doesn’t provide free guests at Delta clubs unless you have high Delta status or a specific Delta Reserve card.
• Quality:Sky Clubs vary—some are quite modern (SEA, LAX, ATL expansions), with decent snacks, bars, and showers. Others might be smaller or older. But having consistent access to a major airline lounge network is a major advantage for Delta flyers.

If Delta is your go-to carrier, the Platinum essentially grants you lounge entry on every flight day without buying a separate membership. Combine that with 5x points on flight bookings, it’s a potent synergy for frequent Delta travelers.

Other Lounge Partners – Plaza Premium, Escape, Airspace

Beyond Priority Pass, Amex often negotiates direct lounge partnerships. Examples:

• Plaza Premium Lounges:Some are part of Priority Pass, but Amex also has direct partnerships. In certain airports, if the PP lounge is at capacity, you might enter via the direct Amex agreement if it’s a different contract. Always check the official lounge listing in your Amex account or the lounge finder tool.
• Escape Lounges (US): In some mid-sized airports, these lounges rebranded to “Centurion Studio Partners.” Access is typically free for Platinum cardholders and maybe up to 2 guests. They have snacks, bar service, and a quieter environment than the main terminal.
• Airspace Lounges, Lufthansa Lounges (select hubs):Occasional special deals exist (e.g., Lufthansa lounges in Munich/Frankfurt for departing flights in certain classes or times). Not guaranteed in all cases, but it’s worth checking if your route has an Amex arrangement.

Amex’s lounge portfolio is dynamic—some new deals form, some older ones end. For up-to-date info, check the “Find a Lounge” feature in the Amex mobile app or website. This multiplicity ensures you have lounge solutions even in airports without Centurion or Delta coverage.

Travel Credits & Perks Complementing Lounges

The Platinum’s lounge coverage is paired with several annual credits, lowering the effective fee:

• $200 Airline Fee Credit:Choose one airline each year. Covers seat upgrades, baggage fees, some in-flight purchases. Not for tickets or gift cards. If you pick your primary airline, you might recoup $200 easily.
• $200 Uber Credit:Distributed monthly ($15 most months, $35 in December). Works on Uber rides or Uber Eats in the US, saving you cash if you frequently use those services when traveling to/from airports.
• $100 Saks Fifth Avenue Credit:$50 in Jan–Jun, $50 in Jul–Dec. Buy gifts or small items from Saks in-store or online. Helps offset the net cost further, though it’s more of a lifestyle perk than travel-specific.
• $189 CLEAR Credit: Reimburse your CLEAR membership, speeding airport security lines. Combine CLEAR with TSA PreCheck or Global Entry (Amex Platinum also gives a statement credit for GE/PreCheck fees) for a frictionless airport experience from curb to lounge.

These credits, plus intangible lounge savings, reduce your net out-of-pocket from $695 to effectively a few hundred dollars if used fully. For many, having lounge access synergy plus these travel cost offsets is an unbeatable convenience.

2025 Lounge Access Updates & Rule Changes

1. Guest Policy Adjustments:Amex changed Centurion lounge guesting in 2023–2024, now often charging $50 per adult guest unless you spend $75k+ annually or hold an authorized user card. This might continue evolving in 2025, possibly increasing thresholds or expanding exceptions. Always confirm the latest policy on the Amex site.
2. New Centurion Lounge Openings:Keep an eye on expansions in major airports (like Atlanta, Newark, DFW expansions). By 2025, the Centurion network should be broader than ever, raising the lounge value proposition further.
3. Priority Pass Changes: If Priority Pass modifies lounge partnerships or if Amex changes terms, the coverage might shift. So far, the big limitation remains “no restaurant credit.” We expect that to remain, but you might see minor expansions in lounge quantity worldwide.
4. Delta Partnerships or Pricing Shifts:Delta has been tightening lounge access and raising membership fees. Platinum’s same-day flight lounge benefit might remain, but guest fees or certain rules could become stricter. If you rely on Delta Sky Club for guests, watch for updates from Delta or Amex.

The Platinum’s lounge network is robust but dynamic. Expect incremental changes. In 2025, the card still stands out for lounge coverage, but always verify the latest T&Cs for guest policies or new lounge expansions.

Real-Life Example: Annual Spend & Lounge Usage

Suppose you:

• $5,000 on flights via Amex Travel or direct (5x)
• $1,000 on prepaid Amex Travel hotels (5x)
• $20,000 on general purchases (1x)
• Visit Centurion or Delta/PP lounges 8 times/year, saving ~$40 each time

Points from the card alone:

That’s 50k Membership Rewards from card spend alone. If you get a 100k sign-up bonus in year one, you might net 150k total. At ~1.6¢ each, that’s $2,400 in potential flight redemptions. Meanwhile, you used lounges 8 times, saving ~$320, plus you recoup your $200 airline fee credit if you choose an airline with baggage or seat fees. If you also use monthly Uber and semi-annual Saks credits, you could easily offset $300–$400 more, effectively neutralizing the $695 fee. The intangible convenience of skipping stressful terminals with lounge usage is priceless for many travelers.

Competitor Analysis

Other top lounge-friendly cards include:

Amex Platinum wins on Centurion and Delta Sky Club access. However, if you want Priority Pass restaurants or a lower net cost, the Venture X or Sapphire Reserve might be more appealing. Still, the Platinum’s lounge network is top-tier for comfort seekers, justifying the higher annual fee for hardcore travelers wanting the broadest lounge coverage plus Centurion exclusivity.

Additional Benefits & Travel Protections

Beyond lounge access, the Platinum includes:

• Trip Delay/Cancellation Insurance:Covers you if your trip is canceled or delayed for a covered reason. Reimburses lodging/meals for eligible delays (6+ hours or overnight) up to a certain amount.
• Car Rental Loss & Damage Insurance: Typically secondary coverage in the US, but can be primary internationally. Check official T&Cs if you rely on it for collisions or theft abroad.
• Purchase Protection & Extended Warranty: Covers eligible items against theft/damage for up to 90–120 days, plus extends manufacturers’ warranties by 1 year in many cases.
• Premium Global Assist® Hotline, Baggage Insurance Plan, etc.: Amex provides an array of travel assistance, emergency services, and baggage coverage if your luggage is lost or delayed.

While not as robust as some business-oriented coverage or the Chase Sapphire Reserve’s primary rental coverage, the Platinum’s protections are still considerable. Combine that with lounge privileges, you have a thorough safety net for your journeys around the globe.

APR & Charge Card Aspects

Traditionally, the Platinum was a charge card—you paid the statement in full monthly. Amex introduced Pay Over Time, effectively letting you carry a balance at a variable APR ~20.99–27.99%. However, interest charges can quickly outweigh any lounge or travel credit benefits, especially at high APRs. The recommended approach is to pay in full. If you need to finance big purchases or revolve a balance, consider a lower-interest or 0% intro APR card. The Platinum thrives as a premium travel tool, not a financing vehicle.

Potential Downsides

• $695 Annual Fee:One of the highest on the market. You need to reliably use lounge access and credits to come out ahead. Casual travelers might struggle to justify it.
• 1x on Most Categories:If you do a lot of everyday spend (groceries, dining) on the Platinum, you get only 1x. For everyday big multipliers, consider pairing with an Amex Gold or a different card for grocery/dining/spending variety.
• Priority Pass Restaurant Exclusion:No meal credits at PP restaurants, which some alternative premium cards do include (e.g., Sapphire Reserve, Venture X). Could matter if you frequent airports with restaurant-based lounge coverage.
• Guest Restrictions at Centurion Lounges:If you want to bring family/friends, you might face extra fees or require an additional card with an added $175 cost for up to 3 AUs. This can raise the overall cost if you often travel with companions.
• Possible Overlap of Credits:The airline fee credit is restricted to a chosen airline. The $200 Uber credit is monthly (small allotments). If you don’t consistently use these, you might not recoup the fee effectively.

Advanced Tips & Strategies (Especially for Lounges)

1. Arrive Early for Centurion Lounges:High demand can cause wait times or capacity constraints. Plan an extra 30–45 minutes to enjoy the lounge’s food/drink. Morning visits can net you a gourmet breakfast or fresh barista coffee.
2. Authorized Users for Lounge Guesting:If you frequently travel with family, add them as Platinum AUs ($175 total for up to 3 AUs). Each AU gets their own lounge access, making it cheaper than paying $50 per guest each time at Centurion Lounges.
3. Leverage Delta Sky Club if Delta is Your Main Airline:Book Delta flights with Platinum to earn 5x, then enjoy free lounge entry. This synergy is valuable if you frequently pass through major Delta hubs (ATL, MSP, DTW, LGA, etc.).
4. Check Amex Travel for Airline Gift Cards (If Allowed): Past data suggests some carriers’ gift cards triggered the airline credit. But official T&Cs exclude gift cards. YMMV. Alternatively, seat upgrades or baggage fees are safer ways to use that $200 credit if you want guaranteed reimbursements.
5. Monitor Restaurant-based PP with Another Card (Optional):If you also hold a Sapphire Reserve or Venture X, you can still get Priority Pass with restaurant coverage. Then you’d have “dual coverage.” This is advanced but can maximize lounge or restaurant usage if traveling frequently.

Who Should Get The Platinum Card® from Amex?

Final Thoughts & Disclaimer

The Platinum Card® from American Express remains a top choice for travelers who prioritize lounge access and premium extras. At $695, it requires steady usage of Centurion Lounges (arguably the best domestic lounge experience), Delta Sky Club (when you’re flying Delta), and Priority Pass™ coverage to see big returns. The 5x on flights/hotels can rack up Membership Rewards quickly if you frequently book airfare or Amex Travel hotels, while the $200 airline fee and Uber credits help offset net costs. For lounge aficionados wanting a near “all-in-one” pass to comfortable airport experiences, the Platinum stands at the top. In 2025, with continuing expansions of Centurion Lounges, plus new minor lounge partnerships, it remains the undisputed lounge king for American travelers who can leverage the credits and 5x flight synergy.

Disclaimer: Terms, lounge policies, and sign-up bonuses may change. Always confirm current details with American Express. We may earn affiliate commissions from certain links, but editorial opinions remain our own. “Pay Over Time” APR is ~20–28%, so carrying a balance negates the card’s perks. Centurion lounge access and Delta Sky Club guest privileges have changing rules. Priority Pass from Amex excludes restaurants, so if that’s important, consider alternative products. Evaluate how often you travel, which airports you frequent, and your ability to fully use the credits/lounges before applying.