Revolut vs Amex: Which is Better?
Revolut and American Express (Amex) are both financial services providers, but they serve different purposes:
- Revolut is a digital banking app offering multi-currency accounts, spending, investing, and personal/business finance solutions.
- American Express (Amex) is a credit card company known for premium travel rewards, cashback, and luxury perks.
1. Key Differences: Revolut vs Amex
| Feature | Revolut | American Express (Amex) |
|---|---|---|
| Main Purpose | Digital banking & financial services | Credit cards & rewards programs |
| Target Users | Individuals & businesses | Individuals & high-spending customers |
| Credit Card Available? | No (only debit & prepaid cards) | Yes (various credit cards) |
| Multi-Currency Support | Yes (30+ currencies) | No |
| Card Type | Debit & prepaid | Credit & charge cards |
| Rewards | Cashback, crypto, & stock rewards | Membership Rewards (points, cashback, travel perks) |
| Airport Lounge Access | Yes (Premium plans) | Yes (Platinum & higher cards) |
| Travel Insurance | Yes (Paid plans) | Yes (on premium cards) |
| Crypto & Stocks | Yes | No |
| Best For | Digital banking, multi-currency accounts | Premium credit benefits, travel rewards |
2. Features Comparison
🔹 Credit vs. Debit
- Revolut offers only debit and prepaid cards (no credit).
- Amex specializes in credit & charge cards, with no debit options.
🏆 Winner: Amex (for credit users).
🔹 Multi-Currency Support
- Revolut supports 30+ currencies and offers real exchange rates.
- Amex does not offer multi-currency features like Revolut.
🏆 Winner: Revolut (for international users).
🔹 Rewards & Cashback
- Revolut offers cashback & crypto rewards, but they are limited.
- Amex provides Membership Rewards points, travel perks, and cashback (better for spending).
🏆 Winner: Amex (better rewards system).
🔹 Travel Benefits
- Revolut Premium/Metal users get lounge access & travel insurance.
- Amex Platinum & above offer better lounge access (Priority Pass, Centurion), travel credits, and more.
🏆 Winner: Amex (best for travelers).
🔹 Fees
- Revolut’s basic account is free, but premium features cost extra.
- Amex cards come with high annual fees, especially Platinum & Centurion.
🏆 Winner: Revolut (lower costs).
3. Which One Should You Choose?
| Choose Revolut if… | Choose Amex if… |
|---|---|
| You want a digital banking solution with multi-currency support. | You need a credit card with premium rewards. |
| You frequently travel & exchange currencies. | You spend a lot on travel, dining, and shopping. |
| You want to trade stocks & crypto. | You want luxury perks (airport lounges, travel credits, insurance). |
| You want a low-fee alternative to banks. | You don’t mind paying high annual fees for rewards. |
4. Conclusion: Which is Better?
✔ For digital banking & multi-currency features → Revolut is better.
✔ For premium credit card benefits & travel perks → Amex is better.
Overall Winner? ✅ Depends on your needs:
- Revolut is best for daily spending, currency exchange, and digital banking.
- Amex is best for credit, travel perks, and rewards.