American Express Cobalt Card vs American Express Gold Rewards Card
Both cards valued on the same spending, after fees. Year 1 against every year after shows which one keeps its value once the welcome bonus is gone.
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On a family's spending: Year 1 goes to American Express Gold Rewards Card, every year after to American Express Cobalt Card, and 3 years to American Express Gold Rewards Card. Compare them on your own spending
All values are after each card's annual or monthly fee, and foreign transaction fees when you set foreign spending. Additional-card fees and memberships some benefits need (such as Amazon Prime or Instacart+) aren't included.
Rates, fees and offers are set by the issuer and may change. Check the issuer's terms before you apply. We don't estimate approval odds.
Values for points and miles are estimates based on published redemption valuations; actual value depends on how you redeem.
3-year value on each preset
after fees, points at their cash value. "~" marks estimates.
| Spending | American Express Cobalt Card | American Express Gold Rewards Card | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Student | $267 | −$26 | American Express Cobalt Card |
| Couple | $1,149 | $1,357 | American Express Gold Rewards Card |
| Family | $1,547 | $1,786 | American Express Gold Rewards Card |
| Frequent traveller | $2,026 | $2,095 | American Express Gold Rewards Card |
| Big spender | $4,013 | $4,036 | American Express Gold Rewards Card |
Frequently asked questions
Which is better, American Express Cobalt Card or American Express Gold Rewards Card?
Over 3 years, American Express Cobalt Card comes out ahead on 1 of 5 spending presets and American Express Gold Rewards Card on 4. On a family's spending ($3,350 a month), Year 1 goes to American Express Gold Rewards Card and every year after to American Express Cobalt Card.
Why can the winner change after year 1?
Year 1 includes welcome bonuses and first-year fee waivers. From year 2 only rewards on spending, ongoing credits and the full annual fee count, so a card with a bigger bonus can fall behind.
Sources
Estimates for information only; not financial advice. See how cards are ranked.