How to Choose a Metal Credit Card
Credit card issuers that offer metal cards are betting on a premium aesthetic as the key to attracting and retaining loyal customers. However, the looks of a metal card shouldn’t be the only factor that you consider when choosing one.
Most metal cards are rewards credit cards, which means you’ll need excellent credit and a hefty annual fee to qualify for them. Thankfully, there are some great metal cards with lower fees.
Aesthetics
Whether they’re made of titanium, tungsten or other premium materials, metal cards feel and look different than plastic cards. They usually feel heavier, and can add a sense of luxury and prestige to your wallet. They’re also more durable and unlikely to get dented or damaged as plastic cards can.
The swanky looks of metal credit cards may be appealing, but they come with hefty annual fees and high spending thresholds to qualify for welcome bonuses. Some cards are designed exclusively for affluent consumers, and offer perks like concierge services, airport lounge access and exclusive travel benefits and protections.
When choosing a metal card, it’s important to compare the features that are most relevant to your needs. If you’re a heavy spender, a metal credit card with elite rewards programs and top-notch perks could be worth the annual fee.
For business owners, a Metal Card makes a statement that says you’re serious about your brand. For example, this Gunmetal Metal Business Card from Bare Knuckle Fighting merges the professional and rugged elements of their business with a custom chain link fence pattern. Silver laser etching on the QR code helps it stand out, while maintaining a monochromatic look.
Durability
Whether you’re looking for a metal credit card to add panache to your wallet or simply want something durable, these unique payment cards are worth considering. While most metal credit cards have high annual fees and require good-to-excellent credit, many offer perks that can make up for these costs.
Metal credit cards are made from materials like stainless steel, titanium, aluminum, and various blends of Metal Card metals that can feel heavier in the wallet than plastic cards. These cards are also sturdier and more durable than plastic cards, making them ideal for frequent use. They’re more likely to withstand accidental damage like bends, scrapes, and drops, and they’ll retain their crisp and clean appearance for longer.
In terms of functionality, metal cards work just like their plastic counterparts. They can be swiped, inserted, or tapped at a point-of-sale terminal or used in digital wallets. Most metal cards have EMV chips, which provide additional security against fraudulent transactions.
The only downside to a metal credit card is that it’s difficult to destroy. You can’t cut them with scissors or use them as a paperweight, and they usually carry “don’t shred” warnings because they can damage standard shredders. This can be a problem if your card is ever lost or stolen, as you’ll have to return it to the issuer for a replacement.
Security
A metal credit card’s sleek appearance and durability make it a desirable option for some consumers. However, it’s important to note that these cards aren’t necessarily better than plastic cards in terms of functionality or features.
One of the most notable differences is that metal credit cards can often feel heavier than their plastic counterparts. This is due to the material used – which can vary between brands. Stainless steel, aluminum and titanium are common materials for metal credit cards.
These sturdier cards are also more difficult to destroy upon expiration or closure, as they can’t be cut with scissors or run through a standard shredder. For this reason, many issuers recommend that you return them nxp mifare desfire by mail to the company or bank that issued the card for safe disposal. Most will even provide you with a prepaid envelope to make it easy and convenient to do so.
Another security feature that can be found on metal credit cards is biometric fingerprint authorisation, which can be a valuable layer of defence against fraud by connecting the payment card to the user. When combined with contactless technology, this can remove the need for PINs and limit controls to help deliver a more secure card experience for high value customers.
Convenience
Metal credit cards are becoming more common. But, they are still a relatively small portion of the credit card industry. This is because many consumers are more interested in other features of their credit cards, such as rewards programs and fees.
For example, some metal cards carry high annual fees that may not be worth the perks that come with them. This is why WalletHub recommends considering other factors, such as rewards, before making the decision to get a metal credit card.
However, it is important to note that even though metal cards are becoming more common, you can still find plastic credit cards that offer many of the same perks and benefits. It is also important to note that you can get a metal debit card in Canada, but you won’t be able to obtain one through any of the Big Six Banks. Instead, you will need to work with a third-party provider that specializes in converting debit cards to metal.
Another thing to consider is that metal credit cards can be difficult to destroy when you decide to cancel them or close your account. This is because they are usually sturdier than their plastic counterparts and can’t be cut up or shred. This is why most metal credit cards have a “don’t shred” warning on them.