The Mastercard® Black Card™ aims to capture the attention of luxury seekers with its impressive metal design and exclusive perks. However, with a hefty annual fee of $495 (plus $195 for each additional user), it’s essential to determine whether its benefits justify the cost.
Key Features
- Annual Fee: $495 ($195 for each Authorized User)
- Earning Rate: 1 point per dollar spent
- Redemption Rates: 2% for airfare, 1.5% for cash back
- Balance Transfer Intro APR: 0% for 15 billing cycles (within 45 days of account opening), then 21.24%-28.24% variable APR
- Foreign Transaction Fees: None
- Unique Design: Made of stainless steel and carbon, weighing 22 grams
Who is the Mastercard Black Card Best For?
The Mastercard® Black Card™ is ideal for luxury travelers who value exclusive perks and are willing to pay a high annual fee. However, its rewards and benefits may not stack up against other premium cards, making it less appealing to those seeking high reward rates and extensive benefits.
Rewards and Redemption
- Earning Rewards: 1 point per dollar on all purchases, with no cap. Points don’t expire as long as the account remains open.
- Redeeming Rewards: Points can be redeemed for gift cards, merchandise, experiences, or statement credits. The best value comes from redeeming points for airfare (2% value) and cash back (1.5% value).
Additional Benefits
- Annual Airline Credit: Up to $100 for baggage fees and upgrades.
- TSA PreCheck/Global Entry Credit: Up to $100.
- Priority Pass Select: VIP lounge access.
- Baggage Delay Insurance: Up to $100 per day (three-day maximum).
- Travel Accident Insurance: Up to $250,000 coverage.
- Auto Rental Collision Waiver: Secondary coverage for eligible rentals.
- Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance: Up to $5,000 per insured person.
How the Mastercard Black Card Stacks Up
Mastercard® Black Card™ vs. Citi Double Cash® Card
- Citi Double Cash® Card: Offers 2% cash back (1% on purchases, 1% on payments) with no annual fee. It includes a 0% intro APR on balance transfers for 18 months, making it a more rewarding option for everyday spending without the high fee.
Mastercard® Black Card™ vs. Chase Sapphire Reserve®
- Chase Sapphire Reserve®: $550 annual fee with a $300 travel credit, higher reward rates, and a welcome bonus. Points can be redeemed at 1.5 cents each for travel through Chase Travel℠. It offers superior perks and rewards compared to the Mastercard® Black Card™.
Mastercard® Black Card™ vs. The Platinum Card® from American Express
- Amex Platinum: Offers more extensive travel benefits and a higher earning rate for travel purchases. It also includes numerous statement credits, a generous welcome bonus, and broader lounge access, making it a more comprehensive travel card.
Conclusion: Is the Mastercard Black Card for You?
The Mastercard Black Card might appeal to those who enjoy its metal design and want to access specific travel perks. However, for serious rewards seekers, it falls short compared to other premium cards offering better value and more extensive benefits.
Our Take
With its high annual fee and average rewards system, the Mastercard® Black Card™ is more about prestige than practicality. While it offers some decent perks, other cards provide better rewards and benefits, making the Mastercard Black less compelling for those looking to maximize their travel and cash-back earnings.
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