Should You Get a Metal Credit Card?

Whether or not you need a metal credit card depends on your lifestyle and preferences. Most metal cards are premium cards that require excellent credit and income.

They also set off airport metal detectors and are harder to destroy than plastic cards. If you do decide to get one, it’s best to evaluate the core benefits and signup/welcome bonus before applying.

It’s a Status Symbol

Metal credit cards are marketed as luxury goods, offering the same kind of prestige as expensive watches, cars or jewelry. They’re often coveted Metal Card by high-spenders with excellent credit and typically come with higher rewards rates. They may even include special perks like airport lounge access or concierge services.

They’re also heavier than plastic cards, with a satisfying metallic clunk when tapping or inserting them. Those qualities make them a status symbol for some, especially those who love the feeling of holding a heavy card in their hand. However, it’s important to note that despite their weight and appearance, there is little functional difference between a metal and plastic credit card. Both swipe, tap or insert their chips in the same way, and both can earn valuable points and benefits.

While some credit card issuers offer a handful of metal cards, most are limited to premium cards that cater to big spenders with good to excellent credit scores and incomes. If you’re considering a metal credit card, be sure to compare the best rewards cards available and select the one that fits your spending habits and lifestyle. Applying for multiple credit cards can damage your credit score, so be careful to only apply for the best metal credit cards you’re qualified for based on your credit history and income.

It’s Durable

Metal credit cards are sturdier and heavier than traditional plastic ones. They can stand up to more wear and tear, which makes them a good option for frequent travelers or people who carry a lot of cash around. Some cards also come with unique perks, like access to VIP lounges and elite status in loyalty programs.

But despite being more durable, there are some drawbacks to carrying a metal card. For one, the material can sometimes set off airport metal detectors and make it more difficult to use at some restaurants or retailers that have older card reader systems. It’s also a pain to dispose of metal cards because they can’t be bent, cut or put through a shredder like plastic cards can. Many card issuers have a service that allows you to mail in your old card and they’ll destroy it for you.

Still, the most important thing to remember is that a credit card should be chosen for its core benefits and rates rather than its materials or looks. Before you apply, compare the welcome bonus, earn rate, benefits and annual fee to ensure the card is a good fit for your spending habits and credit goals. Also, check whether your preferred card offers a secure way to return it in person. Some cards require you to bring it in to a bank branch before they’ll send it back for destruction.

It’s Easy to Dispose of

While metal credit cards were once highly exclusive and difficult to obtain, they’ve become more common in recent years. However, when a cardholder is ready to stop using a metal credit card or close the account, the resulting metal card needs to be properly disposed of. The best way to do so is to return it directly to the card issuer. Many credit card companies will send a prepaid envelope for the return when they mail out a new or replacement card, and the company will then handle the destruction of the old card.

Alternatively, the cardholder can bring the card into their bank’s physical branch and ask for the same service. In some cases, a bank representative will even be able to destroy the card for you on the spot.

If neither of these options is available, a credit cardholder can try to cut up the card with traditional Metal Card kitchen scissors or a paper shredder. However, it’s important to note that this method won’t always work because some metal credit cards have layers of both metal and plastic. In this case, cutting the card might leave it in pieces that can be used to steal your credit card information. Consequently, the safest and most convenient option is to contact your card issuer and ask for a recommendation on how to dispose of a metal credit card.

It’s More Expensive

While metal credit cards have long been a status symbol, they’re also a popular choice for those who want a durable, premium card. From the satisfying “thud” when dropping a metal credit card on a table to the exclusive benefits, there are many reasons why people love these credit cards.

Metal cards are usually more expensive than their plastic counterparts, but the additional perks and rewards can offset this. Many of the most premium metal credit cards come with high annual fees, so it’s important to choose a card that fits your lifestyle and meets your financial goals.

If you’re looking for a metal credit card with a low annual fee, you’ll need to have a good to excellent credit score. You’ll also need to demonstrate good spending habits and credit practices in order to qualify for a metal card.

As the popularity of metal credit cards has grown, more and more card issuers have released them for a wide range of consumers. While you may have to have a decent credit score and solid spending habits to qualify for a metal card, the options are growing for anyone who wants one. This has not gone unnoticed by challenger banks, who are using metal cards to help them set themselves apart from traditional banks. The X1 Card is a great example of a metal credit card that offers a wide range of benefits to qualifying applicants.