Gold Cards (US): four different types with similar names ...

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it's hard to tell how the three rewards cards are different from each other (and the AX website isn't very helpful). can someone please point to an appropriate comparison page or otherwise summarize how these are different from each other?

thanks!
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Two of the four cards are no longer offered. They are listed on the website so that current cardholders can reference information about their benefits:

Gold Card To my knowledge this card is no longer available as a stand alone product, but is offered only as a supplementary card for Platinum (and perhaps Centurion) cardholders. If you attempt to apply for this card you will be taken to the Preferred Rewards Gold application.

Rewards Gold Card This card participated in Membership Rewards Options, and is effectively discontinued because American Express has announced the elimination of the Options program for charge cards effective October. If you attempt to apply for this card you will be taken to the Preferred Rewards Gold application.


Preferred Rewards Gold This card participates in Membership Rewards. Annual fee $130 + $35 for up to five additional cards.

Rewards Plus Gold Card This card participates in Membership Rewards plus it earns bonus points (first year double, 1.5 thereafter) on transactions with Membership Rewards transfer partner airlines and hotel chains. Annual fee $150 with no charge for up to five additional cards.

Unless you need only one card Rewards Plus Gold is less expensive than Preferred Rewards Gold.

dennis
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Why did they keep the preferred rewards gold and up the fee for it? Who would get that card now?
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If you only need a single card, Preferred ($130) is cheaper than Plus ($150), and if you seldom use Membership Rewards transfer partner airlines or hotel chains you might not earn enough additional points to justify the extra $20. Of course if you don't patronize those travel providers Membership Rewards may not be the best credit card loyalty program for you .

dennis
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Until Starwood becomes limit free, it's the best there is
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