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The idea of a metal credit card may seem like something out of a spy movie, but according to industry publication Nilson Report there are more than 32 million metal credit cards in circulation around the world. So how can you get a hold of a metal card in Australia?
Are there really metal credit cards?
Yes, there are metal credit cards available in Australia and around the world. The history of metal cards can be traced back to 1999 when American Express launched its invite-only Centurion Card, also known as the Amex Black Card. Later, more credit card providers began releasing metal cards. In fact, in 2016 when the Chase Sapphire Reserve Credit Card was released in the United States, demand was so high that Chase ran out of metal and had to temporarily send customers plastic versions of the card. Apple also notably released its own titanium Apple Card in the US in 2019. This card is not yet available in Australia.
Who offers metal credit cards in Australia?
At the time of writing, there are a few providers offering metal credit cards and other types of metal cards in Australia, including American Express, Qantas and Revolut.
American Express metal cards
The Amex Platinum Card is made of metal. It’s a charge card, meaning it has ‘flexible spending power’; but customers are required to pay off the balance in full each month. The card offers benefits like the ability to earn Membership Rewards Points, which can be transferred to airline partner programs like Qantas Frequent Flyer and Velocity Frequent Flyer, and other benefits like access to airport lounges. An $1,450 annual fee applies.
Amex also offers the Centurion Card, which is made of anodised titanium. It’s an invite-only card and you can’t apply for the card on Amex’s website. The exact eligibility requirements and benefits are also not published by Amex, but it is rumoured to be reserved for those with high incomes who are spending a large amount on their card each year.
Qantas metal cards
Qantas offers the Qantas Premier Titanium Card. This credit card offers benefits like the ability to earn Qantas Points per dollar spent, discounts on eligible Qantas flights and Qantas First Lounge invitations. To apply for a Qantas Premier Titanium Card, you currently need an annual income of $200,000 or more. The annual fee is currently $1,200.
Revolut metal cards
Money transfer and exchange company, Revolut, offers the Revolut Metal card. It’s a contactless debit card that allows you to make purchases in various currencies at the interbank exchange rate. Other benefits include the ability to earn up to 1% cashback in any supported currency. Revolut says the card is made from a single sheet of reinforced steel and weighs 18 grams. The Revolut Metal card is available for customers in Australia.
Custom metal cards
There are some companies that will transfer your existing debit or credit card to a metal card. Metal credit cards have been popping up on TikTok. Notably, there is Carbon Co Skins, an Australian-based custom metal credit and debit card company which has amassed millions of followers and 32 million likes on the platform. The cards don’t come cheap – a metal card with a pre-made design currently sets you back $150 – but it may be something to consider if you are simply after the look and feel of a metal card and want to keep your existing card. However, unlike the other metal cards mentioned, you will not be able to make contactless payments.
What are the benefits of a metal credit card?
Metal credit cards are likely to be more durable than the average plastic credit card. However, this can present somewhat of an issue when it comes to destroying your card. Destroying a plastic credit card is usually as simple as grabbing a pair of scissors and cutting it in half. With metal credit cards, you may need to contact your credit card provider and send it back to them to be destroyed.
Aside from that, the benefits of a metal credit card are probably mostly aesthetic and subjective, such as the sense of luxury they can give. Some people may prefer metal credit cards for their sleek design and weighty feel. There’s also the unique sound that metal cards make when they hit the table – some call this the ‘plunk factor’. For some customers that clang is critical.
How to choose the best metal credit card to suit your needs
There won’t be a shortage of perks on offer when looking around for a metal credit card, what is important is finding one with perks you will actually value and use – with the right price tag attached.
Pay particular attention to rewards rates and assess these against your regular spending habits in each category. If you pay off your card in full each month, these rewards could potentially see you in front after you take the annual fee into account. Also think about what type of rewards you want to earn – are you looking for a particular type of frequent flyer points, retail vouchers or cashback?
You may find some metal cards offer benefits like airport lounge access, free flights or concierge services, but you should weigh up whether you’ll actually use these.
Finally, you’ll need to do the sums on whether the annual fee associated with the card represents good value when you think about the benefits you’ll realistically use.
At Canstar, we don’t recommend customers choose a credit card simply because of the way it looks, feels or sounds. It’s more important to consider factors like the interest rate, fees and features on offer, as well as your personal circumstances and needs.
