Metal credit cards are a premium variety of cards made out of metal instead of the typical plastic. Considered high-end and exclusive, they often come with special perks or rewards programs. Metal cards can be crafted from stainless steel, titanium or other metal alloys. In recent years, they’ve grown in popularity both for their durability compared to plastic and as status symbols.
Although heavier than plastic, many appreciate the sleek, modern aesthetic and lux feel of metal cards in their wallets. Below, we’ll explore metal cards and how to apply for one.
An Overview of Metal Credit Cards
Metal credit cards have recently surged as their polished, elite-level designs connote prestige. Beyond just a status marker, they also have practical benefits. Their durable construction stands up to wear and tear that would ruin flimsy plastic. Made of high-grade metals like steel or titanium, they impart a sense of luxury.
Cardholders enjoy access to rewards points, airport lounges and excellent customer service. While metal cards may be heavy or prone to scratches, their style and resilience make them appealing to savvy consumers. AU Small Finance Bank offers a top metal card choice for those who wish to apply for a credit card.
Difference Between Plastic and Metal Credit Cards
- Material
Plastic cards are made of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) plastic compound. This material allows for customisable card designs and embossing. Metal cards are crafted from stainless steel, titanium or other metal alloys, giving them a luxurious, elite style.
- Durability
Plastic credit cards can easily crack or snap if dropped on the ground or bent in a wallet. Over time, the embossed numbers may wear down as well. In contrast, metal credit cards are far more durable and rigid with their solid metal construction. They can withstand regular wear and tear from drops or pressure much better.
- Style & Feel
Plastic cards have a thin, flimsy feel and lightweight design. While plastic comes in different colours, the materials look and feel disposable or replaceable. Metal cards offer substantial weight with a premium brushed metal or sleek minimalist look. Holding a metal card evokes a sense of opulence.
- Status Symbol
Metal credit cards have an inherent air of exclusivity and privilege associated with luxury goods. They convey wealth, status and belonging to elite financial circles. Plastic cards are standard and lack this level of prestigious status. Almost anyone can obtain one.
- Features
As premium cards, metal credit card are more likely to offer additional benefits like rewards points on purchases, exclusive access to airport lounges, or hotel privileges. They also provide excellent customer service. Plastic cards don’t have the same level of perks or clout but do allow customisable embossed names, numbers, and designs.
- Security
Metal credit cards embed EMV security chips to protect against various kinds of fraud, such as skimming or cloning data. However, plastic cards now contain embedded chips to provide similar fraud protection.
- Weight
A metal credit card can weigh 2-3 times heavier than a plastic card. However, some newer metal cards utilise lighter, thinner alloy metals. Both materials still meet standard dimensions but metal’s extra weight may feel inconvenient in a wallet.
- Cost
Most metal credit cards require notably high annual fees due to their rare, elite status and luxury benefits provided. Standard plastic credit cards range from no annual fee to moderately priced fees depending on their level of rewards or perks offered.
Which is the Best Metal Credit Card?
AU Small Finance Bank presents an exclusive metal credit card called the Zenith+ for discerning Indian customers seeking luxury experiences. This credit card is specially crafted from metal alloys instead of regular plastic.
Card owners receive lavish lifestyle privileges, such as travel and dining rewards points, airport lounge access, and more. The benefits cater to sophisticated tastes and come with personalised service.
However, this premium card carries a lofty ₹4,999 annual membership fee plus taxes. This fee gets waived in the 2nd year onwards if you spend over ₹8 Lakhs annually using the Zenith+ card. So it’s designed for big spenders.
Other criteria apply, too—having a monthly income over ₹2.5 Lakhs, being between 21 and 60 years old, and having Indian resident status. While qualifying is complex, the AU Small Finance Bank metal card provides custom luxury for elite clients who cut.
Conclusion
Metal credit cards clearly show status and luxury for those allowed to carry them. Their stylish designs and premium rewards elevate the banking experience. But with such strict rules, high fees, and heavier weights, these elite metal cards work for some people only.
The cost might be worth it for customers seeking fancy extras that regular plastic cards don’t offer. This grants them admission into more exclusive financial circles. Finally, metal cards bring their holders unique pampering and VIP privileges.