American Express Preferred Rewards Gold vs Barclaycard Avios Plus
Side-by-side comparison across fees, rewards, welcome bonuses, and eligibility.
It's a true tie, neither dominates. Pick the one whose boost categories match where you actually spend.
Side-by-side
| Criterion | American Express Preferred Rewards Gold | Barclaycard Avios Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Annual fee | £195 | · £240 |
| Joining fee | = None | = None |
| Top reward rate | · 1% (general) | 1.5% (general) |
| Base reward rate | · 1% | 1.5% |
| Forex markup | = N/A | = N/A |
| Welcome bonus | = 20,000 Membership Rewards points after £3,000 spend in three months | = 25,000 Avios after £3,000 spend in three months, for new Barclaycard customers |
| Fee waiver threshold | = No waiver | = No waiver |
| Min income | = £20,000 | = Not verified |
| Min credit score | = N/A | = N/A |
| Editorial rating | 4.6/5 | · 4.2/5 |
Benefits compared
American Express Preferred Rewards Gold
- 1 Membership Rewards point for every £1 spent
- Annual fee £195, £0 in the first year
- Points transfer to airline and hotel partners
Barclaycard Avios Plus
- 1.5 Avios for every £1 spent on eligible purchases
- £20 monthly fee (£240 a year)
- Spend £10,000 in 12 months to choose a British Airways cabin upgrade voucher
FAQ
›American Express Preferred Rewards Gold vs Barclaycard Avios Plus: which is better?
It's a true tie, pick the one whose boost categories match your spend. American Express Preferred Rewards Gold wins on 2 criteria, Barclaycard Avios Plus on 2.
›Can I get both?
Yes, if your credit profile supports it, holding both is the optimal play. Use American Express Preferred Rewards Gold for its best categories, Barclaycard Avios Plus for its best categories. Just watch the combined annual fees against your spend.
›Which one has the better welcome bonus?
American Express Preferred Rewards Gold: 20,000 Membership Rewards points after £3,000 spend in three months. Barclaycard Avios Plus: 25,000 Avios after £3,000 spend in three months, for new Barclaycard customers.