Metal credit cards are issued by banks and card companies directly — you request one when you open an account or upgrade an existing card, usually through your online banking portal or by calling the card issuer
A metal credit card is a physical card made partly or entirely from metal (usually stainless steel or titanium) instead of the standard plastic. The metal construction is cosmetic — it does not change how the card works or what it costs to use. Metal cards are typically offered as a premium feature on higher-tier credit cards, meaning they come with annual fees and are designed for people who spend more or want the status signal of a heavier card in their wallet.
Getting one is straightforward: you either open a new account with a card issuer that offers a metal version, or you upgrade an existing card to a metal variant if your issuer allows it. The process takes a few days to a few weeks, depending on whether you are opening a new account or switching an existing one.
Key Takeaways
- Metal credit cards come only on premium cards with annual fees, usually starting at $95 to $550 per year.
- You get a metal card by opening a new premium credit card account or requesting an upgrade to a metal version of a card you already hold.
- The metal construction is visual only — it does not affect rewards, interest rates, fraud protection, or how merchants process the card.
- Metal cards take longer to arrive than plastic ones because they are made to order and shipped separately, often two to four weeks.
- Not all premium cards offer metal versions; some card issuers send plastic cards even for their highest-tier products.
Which card issuers offer metal versions
American Express, Chase, Citi, and Capital One all offer metal cards on select premium products. American Express Centurion (the "Black Card") and Platinum cards come in metal. Chase offers metal versions of the Sapphire Reserve and some business cards. Citi has metal versions of its Prestige card. Capital One offers metal on its Venture X card.
Not every premium card has a metal option. Some issuers, including Discover and many smaller banks, issue only plastic cards even on their top-tier products. Check the card issuer's website or call their customer service line to confirm whether the specific card you want comes in metal.
Opening a new account for a metal card
If you do not already have an account with the issuer, you can open one online or by phone. Visit the card issuer's website, select the metal card product you want, and complete the process. You will provide your name, address, Social Security number, income, and employment information. The issuer will check your credit and make a decision within minutes to a few days.
Once approved, the card is manufactured and shipped to your address. Metal cards take longer to produce than plastic ones — expect two to four weeks for delivery. Some issuers offer expedited shipping for an additional fee. You will receive the card in the mail with a PIN and set up instructions.
Upgrading an existing card to metal
If you already hold a card from an issuer that offers a metal version, you can often request an upgrade without opening a new account. Log into your online banking portal and look for an option to upgrade or change your card. Some issuers call this a "card refresh" or "card replacement." Alternatively, call the customer service number on the back of your current card and ask whether you can upgrade to the metal version.
When you upgrade, your account number and credit line stay the same — only the physical card changes. The issuer will cancel your old plastic card and send the metal version to your address. This process also takes two to four weeks. You may be charged a replacement fee (typically $15 to $25), though some issuers waive it for premium cardholders.
Annual fees and what they cover
Metal credit cards are premium products, and the metal itself is not the main cost — the annual fee is. Premium cards with metal versions typically charge between $95 and $550 per year, depending on the card and issuer. American Express Platinum charges $695 annually. Chase Sapphire Reserve charges $550. Capital One Venture X charges $395.
These annual fees are separate from the cost of the metal card production. The fee covers the card's benefits package, which usually includes travel credits, lounge access, concierge services, and higher rewards rates on certain purchases. The metal card itself is included as part of the premium offering, not charged separately.
How metal cards work in practice
A metal credit card functions identically to a plastic card. Merchants process it the same way — swiped, inserted into a chip reader, or tapped for contactless payment. The metal does not interfere with the magnetic stripe or chip. Your credit limit, interest rate, rewards program, and fraud protection are unchanged.
The only practical differences are weight and durability. Metal cards are heavier and more durable than plastic, so they are less likely to crack or bend. Some people report that metal cards occasionally trigger older card readers or cause issues at self-checkout machines, though this is rare with modern equipment. If you encounter a problem, the card works fine once the merchant manually enters the number or you use a different payment method.
Timeline from process to first use
The timeline depends on whether you are opening a new account or upgrading an existing card. For a new account, expect approval within one to three business days, then two to four weeks for the card to arrive. Some issuers offer rush processing that can shorten this to one to two weeks, usually for a fee of $15 to $35.
For an upgrade on an existing account, the process is faster because the issuer already has your information on file. You may see the upgrade option available when ready in your online portal, and the card ships within two to four weeks. Once the card arrives, set up it through the issuer's website or app, and it is ready to use.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a metal card have better fraud protection than plastic?
No. Fraud protection is determined by the card issuer and the card product, not by the material. A metal card and a plastic card from the same issuer with the same product name have identical fraud protection, dispute resolution, and liability limits.
Can I use a metal card at all merchants?
Yes, in nearly all cases. Metal cards work with chip readers, magnetic stripe readers, and contactless payment systems. Very old card readers or some self-checkout machines may occasionally have trouble reading the card, but this is uncommon. If it happens, you can pay with a different method or ask the merchant to manually enter the card number.
What happens to my old card when I upgrade to metal?
The issuer cancels your old plastic card and sends you the metal version. Your account number, credit line, and rewards balance stay the same. You should destroy the old card once the new one arrives and is activated.
Do I have to pay the annual fee to get a metal card?
Yes. Metal cards are only offered on premium credit cards, and all premium cards charge annual fees. The metal card is part of the premium package, not a separate upgrade. You cannot get a metal card without paying the annual fee of the card product it comes with.
Can I request a metal card if I have fair or poor credit?
Most premium cards with metal versions require good to excellent credit (typically a credit score of 670 or higher). Some issuers have premium cards designed for people with fair credit, but these usually come in plastic only. Check the issuer's website or call to confirm the credit requirements for the specific card you are interested in.