Editorial take: American Express Gold Card
The ultimate foodie card, earning bonus points at restaurants worldwide and at U.S. supermarkets. Plus over $400 in easy-to-use statement credits make the annual fee a no-brainer.
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Side-by-side
American Express Gold Card vs JetBlue Plus Card
Both are well-respected travel cards. The American Express Gold Card comes from American Express at $325/yr; the JetBlue Plus Card from Barclays at $99/yr. Below: side-by-side specs, an opinionated verdict, and the FAQs people actually ask before applying.
Bottom line
If you're not sure you'll use premium perks, start with the JetBlue Plus Card — its annual fee is significantly lower and the bonus values are similar. Upgrade later if you find yourself using the higher-tier benefits.
| Feature | American Express Gold Card | JetBlue Plus Card |
|---|---|---|
| Annual fee | $325 | $99 |
| Sign-up bonus | 60,000 points | 60,000 points |
| Bonus value (est.) | $1,200 | $780 |
| Min spend to unlock bonus | $8,000 in 6 mo | $1,000 in 3 mo |
| Issuer | American Express | Barclays |
| Card category | travel | airline |
| Best earning category (Restaurants) | 4x | 1x |
| Transfer partners | amex-mr | trueblue |
| Headline benefits |
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Read the full review
American Express Gold Card
$325/yr · 60,000 points
Read the full review
JetBlue Plus Card
$99/yr · 60,000 points
Editorial take: JetBlue Plus Card
Strong East Coast card. The 5,000 anniversary points alone are worth ~$65 (more than half the fee), and the 10% redemption rebate keeps the rest of your TrueBlue stash compounding.
Common questions
- Which card has the bigger sign-up bonus, American Express Gold Card or JetBlue Plus Card?
- The American Express Gold Card has the bigger bonus — 60,000 points, worth roughly $1,200, versus 60,000 points (~$780) on the JetBlue Plus Card.
- Is the American Express Gold Card's $325 annual fee worth it compared to the JetBlue Plus Card?
- At $325/yr, the American Express Gold Card is in the mid-fee tier. Compare its specific perks (lounge access, travel credits, primary rental insurance) to the JetBlue Plus Card's — pick the one whose perks you'll actually use.
- Can I have both the American Express Gold Card and JetBlue Plus Card?
- Yes, since they're from different issuers (American Express and Barclays) the application rules don't conflict. Many points enthusiasts hold both — they pair well when one earns flexible bank points and the other earns a different currency.
- Should I get the American Express Gold Card or the JetBlue Plus Card first?
- Get the one whose sign-up bonus you can hit comfortably without overspending. American Express Gold Card: $8,000 spend in 6 months. JetBlue Plus Card: $1,000 in 3 months. Pick the easier minimum spend if you're new to points; pick the larger bonus if you have planned big purchases coming up.
Card details on this page reflect the most recent data we've verified against the issuer's own site. Sign-up bonuses and fees can change at any time — confirm the current offer on the issuer's page before applying.