American Express Business Gold Rewards Card vs American Express Cobalt Card
The short answer: for most people the American Express Business Gold Rewards Card is the better overall card — we rate it 4.8/5 and it shines if you want maximizing rewards on all purchases. Choose the American Express Cobalt Card instead if your priority is foodies and everyday spenders who want maximum points on dining and groceries.
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| Our rating | 4.8 | 4.8 |
|---|---|---|
| Annual fee | $199/yr | $156/yr |
| Welcome bonus | ~$2,001 | ~$300 |
| Foreign transaction fee | 2.5% | 2.5% |
| Rewards type | points | points |
| Top earn rates |
|
|
| Purchase interest | 20.99% | 21.99% |
| Income required | None stated | None stated |
| Best for | Maximizing rewards on all purchases | Foodies and everyday spenders who want maximum points on dining and groceries |
| Apply now | Apply now |
American Express Business Gold Rewards Card
Our winnerThe American Express Business Gold Rewards Card earns up to 1x on all purchases and carries a $199 annual fee. We estimate around $2001 in first-year value. Figures are illustrative — verify current terms with American Express.
American Express Cobalt Card
The Cobalt is the gold standard for food-and-grocery earning in Canada. If you spend heavily at restaurants and supermarkets and value flexible, transferable points, nothing else comes close.
Frequently asked questions
Is the American Express Business Gold Rewards Card or the American Express Cobalt Card better?
For most Canadians, the American Express Business Gold Rewards Card is the better overall pick (we rate it 4.8/5 vs 4.8/5). It's especially strong if you want maximizing rewards on all purchases. The American Express Cobalt Card can still win if you specifically want foodies and everyday spenders who want maximum points on dining and groceries.
Which card has the lower annual fee?
The American Express Cobalt Card has the lower annual fee (a $156 annual fee vs a $199 annual fee).
Do either of these cards charge foreign transaction fees?
American Express Business Gold Rewards Card: 2.5% foreign transaction fee. American Express Cobalt Card: 2.5% foreign transaction fee.