American Express Cobalt Card vs American Express Aeroplan Reserve Card

By   |   Verified by David Boyd   |   Updated 15 Aug 2023

The main difference between the American Express Cobalt Card and the American Express Aeroplan Reserve Card lies in their rewards structure, fees, and standout benefits. While both cards offer exceptional perks for Canadian travelers, they come with distinct features that cater to varying spending habits and travel preferences.

When it comes to rewards, the Cobalt Card shines with its multi-faceted points system. It's like a rewards buffet - earn points on dining, groceries, travel, and more. The Aeroplan Reserve Card, on the other hand, focuses on airline perks, accumulating Aeroplan points for flights and related expenses. So, if you're a foodie jet-setter, Cobalt's got your back; if you're an airborne adventurer, Aeroplan Reserve's got your wings.

Fees-wise, the Cobalt Card typically comes with a more wallet-friendly annual fee and a tiered monthly fee structure. It's like getting a gym membership, but for rewards. The Aeroplan Reserve Card, while it may have a higher annual fee, offers premium travel benefits that frequent flyers can appreciate, such as airport lounge access and companion vouchers. So, if you want to skip the airport hustle in style, Aeroplan Reserve's got your VIP pass.

Speaking of perks, Cobalt's introductory offers and bonuses dance to a unique tune. They often include bonus points on eligible spending, akin to a spontaneous party where you're showered with confetti for using your card. Meanwhile, the Aeroplan Reserve Card boasts its own welcome bonuses and accelerated points earnings, tailored to aviation enthusiasts who want to rack up those miles faster than a jet.

In the end, both cards serve as your trusty companions on the journey of credit card rewards. Cobalt is like the spirited friend who's up for any adventure, offering a buffet of points for your everyday choices. Aeroplan Reserve is the sophisticated pal who ushers you into the world of premium travel with exclusive benefits and privileges. So, whether you're chasing culinary delights or soaring through the skies, these American Express cards have your back.

American Express Cobalt Card
 

On website

American Express Aeroplan Reserve Card
 

On website

Description
Offers an attractive rewards program with a focus on earning points quickly on everyday spending categories like dining, streaming subscriptions, and transportation.American Express Aeroplan Reserve Card is a premium travel credit card offered by American Express in partnership with Aeroplan.
Basics
Additional Cardholders
99
Card Type
American ExpressAmerican Express
Minimum Credit Limit
N/AN/A
Maximum Credit Limit
N/AN/A
Sign up bonus
Signup Bonus Points
15000 points60000 points
Signup Bonus Points Required Spend
$750.00$7,500.00
Signup Bonus Points Required Spend Terms
eligible purchases every month for 12 months, that's 1,250 Membership Rewards points for each monthly billing period.eligible purchases within the first 3 months of Cardmembership. Plus an additional 25,000 points when you spend $2,500 in month 13. Giving you a total of 85,000 points. Terms and Conditions apply.
Rewards
Rewards Program
American Express RewardsAmerican Express Rewards
Domestic Rewards Points Earn Rate
11
Benefits
Airport Lounge Access Included
YesYes
Concierge Service Included
YesNo
Cardholder's International Travel Insurance
YesYes
Complimentary Flight Voucher Included
NoNo
Introductory balance transfer
Balance Transfer Rate
N/AN/A
Balance Transfer Period
N/AN/A
Balance Transfer Fee
N/AN/A
Balance Transfer Limit
N/AN/A
Balance Transfer Revert Rate
N/AN/A
Ongoing rates
Cash Advance Rate
21.99% p.a.21.99% p.a.
Purchase Rate Ongoing
21.99% p.a.21.99% p.a.
Ongoing fees
Annual Fee Ongoing
$155.88$599.00
Foreign Exchange Fee
$2.50$2.50
Late Payment Fee
$38.00$38.00
Overseas ATM Withdrawal Fee
$5.00$5.00
Digital wallets
Apple Pay Enabled
YesYes
Google Pay Enabled
YesYes
Samsung Pay Enabled
YesYes
Eligibility
Available To Existing Customers
NoNo
Minimum Age
18 years18 years
Minimum Credit Rating
GoodGood
Minimum Income
N/AN/A
Temporary Residents Accepted
NoNo