American Express is known for offering premium credit cards, each catering to different needs. Among them, the Amex Gold Charge Card and the Membership Rewards Credit Card (MRCC) are popular choices. While both seem similar, they differ in features, rewards, and suitability for different users. Here’s a comparison to help you decide which one is right for you.
Joining & Annual Fees:
- Joining Fee: ₹1,000 + GST for both cards.
- Annual Fee: ₹4,500 + GST (from the second year) for both.
Key Differences:
- Gold Charge Card:
- No preset spending limit.
- 1 Membership Rewards (MR) Point per ₹50 spent on all eligible categories, including fuel and utilities.
- Milestone rewards: Earn 1,000 MR Points each month for completing six transactions worth ₹1,000 each.
- Rewards Multiplier Portal: 5X MR Points.
- Membership Rewards Credit Card (MRCC):
- 1 Membership Rewards Point per ₹50 spent on all eligible categories.
- Milestone rewards: Earn 1,000 MR Points each month for completing four transactions worth ₹1,500 each.
- Additional 1,000 MR Points for spending ₹20,000 each month.
Reward Rate Comparison:
Card | Spends | Rewards | Value of MR Point | Reward Rate |
---|---|---|---|---|
Gold Charge | Six transactions of ₹1,000 each month (₹6,000) | 1,000 MR Points | ₹500 (1 MR = ₹0.50) | Monthly: 8.33% |
MRCC | Four transactions of ₹1,500 each month (₹6,000) | 1,000 MR Points | ₹500 (1 MR = ₹0.50) | Monthly: 8.33% |
MRCC | ₹20,000 monthly spend | 1,000 MR Points | ₹500 (1 MR = ₹0.50) | Monthly: 2.5% |
Reward Redemption: Both cards offer redemption through the Gold Collection.
- 24 Karat Gold Collection:
- Taj Voucher: ₹14,000 (24,000 MR Points)
- Shoppers Stop Voucher: ₹10,000 (24,000 MR Points)
- Amazon Voucher: ₹8,000 (24,000 MR Points)
- 18 Karat Gold Collection:
- Taj Voucher: ₹9,000 (18,000 MR Points)
- Amazon Voucher: ₹6,000 (18,000 MR Points)
Best Pick:
- For First-Time Amex Users: The MRCC is recommended, especially for those looking to maximize rewards on small and frequent spending. It’s also ideal for those new to the Amex ecosystem.
- For Experienced Users: The Gold Charge Card offers flexibility with no preset spending limit and a straightforward reward structure.