Metal credit cards may have a luxe look, but they work the same as traditional credit cards.
Metal credit cards may look pretty, but take it from a credit card writer who's had more than her fair share of metal in her wallet: When it comes to credit cards, it's more important to look beyond the surface to a card's features and benefits.Â
In their early history, metal cards were primarily reserved for luxury cards with premium benefits and the prices to match. Nowadays, metal cards are still associated with more premium products, but you can find them at every price level.
Many metal cards are excellent travel or cash-back cards in their own right, but what makes them great isn't the material they're made out of. Rather, it's the cards' generous rewards, useful travel protections and other perks that help you save money or upgrade your experience. But, if you want to add a touch of luxury to your wallet, the best metal cards are actually worth it -- as cards first, and status symbols second.
Read more:Â The History of Credit Cards
How to choose the best metal credit card
The most important factors to consider are the same as any other rewards card: Will you be able to earn enough to offset any annual fee without contorting your regular spending habits. Here's an overview of the specifics:
Annual fee
Most metal cards charge an annual fee, which is the general price of admission for many credit cards when it comes to accessing higher reward rates, larger welcome bonuses and better perks.
The best metal cards charge relatively high annual fees but provide lucrative welcome offers and perks such as annual credits.
Take note: If you can't use the annual credits each year -- or earn enough rewards to offset the fee -- this may not be the card for you.
Rewards
As with most rewards cards, the most important factor to consider is whether the potential rewards -- including the applicable categories and earning rates -- outweigh the annual fee. It's important that you not contort your spending to trigger the rewards; choose a card that complements your current habits.
Reward types generally determine redemption value and options. Cash back rewards are simpler with fewer redemption options, with 1% equating to 1 cent. Points may be more versatile, offering a wider array of redemption options and higher values depending on how they're redeemed.
Travel cards may offer point transfer options to the credit card issuer's travel partners where they could be worth more than if you chose to redeem them through traditional methods.
Spend requirements to earn a new account bonus
Metal credit cards typically have higher fees and higher spending thresholds to qualify for a welcome bonus. Match your budget with the card, and don't spend on purchases you otherwise wouldn't have just to qualify for a welcome offer.
Additional benefits
Cards with higher annual fees typically offer higher-end perks such as spending or travel credits, or airport lounge access. If you don't anticipate taking advantage of all of the perks, it may make sense to find a card with a lower fee.
Are metal credit cards worth it?
If you're choosing the credit card for more than what it's made of -- and it matches your budget -- then it being metal is a nice bonus. However, choosing a credit card just for the sake of adding a metal card to your wallet is not advised.
How to apply for a metal credit card
Follow these steps to apply for a metal credit card:
1. Choose a card that matches your needs and budget.
2. Go to the credit card issuer's website to submit a secure application.
3. Supply all the required financial and personal information.
4. Pay your bill on time and in full each month.
FAQs
How much do metal credit cards weigh?
Metal credit cards are heavier than typical plastic credit cards. Whereas plastic credit cards weigh roughly 5 grams, metal credit cards are often three times that, weighing in at 17 or 18 grams.
What are metal credit cards made out of?
Metal credit cards can be made from a variety of materials. Most of these materials are durable -- like stainless steel, aluminum and titanium -- and some use a mix of materials.
How do I get rid of a metal credit card?
Most plastic credit cards should be put through a shredder when you close the account, but you don't want to do that with a metal credit card. You can mail your metal card back to the issuer, or you can use a tool called tin snips to cut up your credit card. Either route will ensure your private information does not get into the wrong hands.
