American Express Cobalt Card vs CIBC Aventura Visa Infinite
The short answer: for most people the American Express Cobalt Card is the better overall card — we rate it 4.8/5 and it shines if you want foodies and everyday spenders who want maximum points on dining and groceries. Choose the CIBC Aventura Visa Infinite instead if your priority is flexible travel rewards with no airline lock-in.
Advertiser disclosure: we may be compensated for links on this page. Our ratings stay independent. Learn more.
| Our rating | 4.8 | 4.3 |
|---|---|---|
| Annual fee | $156/yr | $139/yr |
| Welcome bonus | ~$300 | ~$1,000 |
| Foreign transaction fee | 2.5% | 2.5% |
| Rewards type | points | points |
| Top earn rates |
|
|
| Purchase interest | 21.99% | 20.99% |
| Income required | None stated | $60,000 personal |
| Best for | Foodies and everyday spenders who want maximum points on dining and groceries | Flexible travel rewards with no airline lock-in |
| Apply now | Apply now |
American Express Cobalt Card
Our winnerThe 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.
CIBC Aventura Visa Infinite
A flexible travel card for people who don't want to be tied to one airline. The waived first-year fee and lounge access make year one an easy win.
Frequently asked questions
Is the American Express Cobalt Card or the CIBC Aventura Visa Infinite better?
For most Canadians, the American Express Cobalt Card is the better overall pick (we rate it 4.8/5 vs 4.3/5). It's especially strong if you want foodies and everyday spenders who want maximum points on dining and groceries. The CIBC Aventura Visa Infinite can still win if you specifically want flexible travel rewards with no airline lock-in.
Which card has the lower annual fee?
The CIBC Aventura Visa Infinite has the lower annual fee (a $139 annual fee vs a $156 annual fee).
Do either of these cards charge foreign transaction fees?
American Express Cobalt Card: 2.5% foreign transaction fee. CIBC Aventura Visa Infinite: 2.5% foreign transaction fee.