Chase Sapphire Preferred vs. Reserve (Why I Upgraded)

[@SpencerJohnsonOfficial]

🎥 To see me unbox this new credit card when that video comes out, click into this playlist: spencerjohnsonofficial.com/unboxing

[@richiou]

The CSR is for anyone who flies out of Austin. You can grab unlimited food and drinks, to go if needed, which is helpful for anyone who's flying Southwest.

[@robotnik1937]

are you saying that because southwest will let you bring snacks and drinks on their flights? I’m new to the travel/credit card game

[@SpencerJohnsonOfficial]

Well I fit that demographic haha 😆 I'm excited to see how much use I get out of it!

[@Anthonyjones-pq4ff]

Ok question Answer for how long had you had the preferr card. 1Yr thx

[@newagain9964]

Chase is opening up more lounges quickly. They’re focusing in on east and west coast airports. And unsaturated ones to (San Diego etc). Smart move.

[@jenq6751]

How to do that exactly? Can you elaborate? Thanks

[@TheCreditFrog]

Congrats on thew new card Spencer! You are certainly building up your premium travel credit card collection! The CSR is incredibly underrated, but it also desperately needs some kind of refresh since it's been the same for so long. Great move on getting that CLI first before the PC and glad I could help you out with that 🤩. Looking forward to your CLI video - I know it's going a be a banger!

[@SpencerJohnsonOfficial]

You're the man Stan! 👊🏼 I'm definitely excited to have this one in my setup now. I'll be the first to welcome in a card refresh, don't get me wrong, but luckily I'll still get positive value without that refresh, so I'm looking forward to getting some use out of it. I appreciate your help on this one and I'm excited to release the CLI video too! Should be a fun one that I wouldn't have done if it weren't for Josh 😆

[@krs1905]

For airline travel hackers who buy one-way tickets (usually last minute international award tickets) the CSR is the only card that I know of whose insurance covers the one-way trip. All the other premium travel consumer cards require a round trip ticket for travel insurances.

[@Fred-dc6hh]

You dont have to pay for any of it on the CSR?

[@newagain9964]

I note that CSR does have way better travel benefits than most. But I’m surprised if Amex has a rd trip rule. Gonna look into it now.

[@ninjanick84]

Just got the CSR yesterday. I applied not product change. So excited!

[@antysmith]

So if you upgrade will it change your card or it’ll be a new one.

[@Deee.X]

@@antysmith Same card number new security code

[@LukesPointsandMiles]

Im excited to see how this works out for you. I have the same decision coming up in April. I'm concerned about not being able to make up the $550 with the credits though. Great Video!!

[@SpencerJohnsonOfficial]

Same here man! I'll definitely be making follow up videos. I wish the credits fully covered the AF, but the other benefits should easily give me positive value. We'll see!

[@biancas808]

I upgraded my CSP to the CSR in February and it was the best decision for me. I wasn’t using the CSP at all really but now when I travel I’m using the CSR more frequently. It’s a great travel card.

[@SpencerJohnsonOfficial]

That's awesome to hear!! That's really how I was feeling about the upgrade too. I love that the CSP lets me transfer out to travel partners, but I feel like I could get so much more use out of the CSR. I'm happy to join you in the CSR club alongside Matt as well! 😆

[@newagain9964]

Problem is, a lot their perks are expiring in 2024. Wish I knew what they have in store.

[@biancas808]

@@newagain9964 hopefully they extend these perks and add some new ones without increasing the fee.

[@ArmandoHernandez-ph4jg]

Which perks are expiring in 2024?

[@goldfish3858]

the Lyft pass, instacart and the problem is, this was another reason why I was/am heavily leaning to the Sapphire Reserve over the Platinum because I don’t do walmart, Uber and the other perks they have. I hope they reveal what they have in store next but though it would be painful for me to see those benefits to go, I think the Reserve has a an exceptional travel credit that ticks me to them over the Platinum

[@notreveh]

I’m on a journey to decide which one will be my very first premium credit card. After narrowing down all possibilities, I landed on this card, and your videos are by far the most informative on the topic. A lot of the other reviewers out there were just repeating the same basic info.

[@KevinYang]

It's always cool to see others make use of a card that I wouldn't! Seems like the CSR is a great fit for your usecase, especially when it comes to your redemptions and your home airport though! Maybe I'll consider whe my next 48 months comes up, but will stick to my Amex Plat + VX til then! Who knows, a TON will have likely changed by then. Awesome video as always Spencer!

[@chrisoverbey5937]

Thanks for sharing your reasoning, very valuable in helping me refine my strategy flying out of Denver. Great example of how there is no generic answer to the question “Which card is better?”

[@SpencerJohnsonOfficial]

Of course man! I'm glad you enjoyed it! I completely agree with your last sentence... there really is no one best card for everyone. You just have to choose what works best for you and go with it!

[@SOXGATORS]

First Super Thanks!! 😂😂😂

[@SpencerJohnsonOfficial]

Dude you’re awesome haha. I think you’ve won that one every single time! I appreciate you’re support a ton man 🙏🏼

[@steve_rogers_usmc1990]

Such impeccable timing as I am coming up on my one-year anniversary for my CSP and am really thinking I want that CSR. The 50 percent bonus is amazing plus actual lounge access worth something is sounding better and better. I just wish Chase offered something different like the VX does with the bonus anniversary miles each year or some other kind of annual fee reducer. I don't really use Lyft, or any of the other perks that the CSR offers but, man that 50 percent bonus plus the 300-travel credit will go far in helping to offset the CSR annual fee, great video!

[@SpencerJohnsonOfficial]

Haha that's awesome how that works out sometimes. I do wish that the CSR provided direct credits that offset the annual fee each year and I'd be happy to see them refresh the card, but like you said, even with just the annual travel credit and 50% redemption boost, this card makes a lot of sense. I'm excited to let y'all know how much value I get from it!

[@arolls22]

This is a great no filler info video. Thank you!

[@druiz012]

Ohhhhh snappp. You upgraded! Congrats. I upgraded in August and have used it a ton since. 3% back on travel has been great for me. Also PP Restaurants were clutch my last 3 trips. Cant wait to check out the Sapphire Lounge in Boston this coming year.

[@SpencerJohnsonOfficial]

Yessir!! Definitely excited for it!! I'm happy to hear you've gotten good value from it too. I'm looking forward to trying out the true Sapphire lounges, but also excited to see the Sapphire Terrace lounge as well 👊🏼

[@jakemercure]

CSR is so undervalued. 1.5 CPP in portal and a versatile travel credit seals the deal for me. CSP is fine but not good enough for domestic travel portal redemptions IMO

[@torrencesorrell5441]

Between this video and yours earlier today I think you guys got me SOLD 😂😂. I think I’ll be able to knock that $250 effective AF down between either using the luxury hotel credit, 1.5 redemptions, dash pass or etc… I’m also cool leaving a little bit of money on the table because I don’t always have to do “mental gymnastics” for every redemption

[@SpencerJohnsonOfficial]

I completely agree! While those with the Platinum card already may not find the CSR as valuable, I think for those of us that really like Chase, it’s a great pickup for at least a year to try it out.

[@SpencerJohnsonOfficial]

Haha that’s awesome. The last part you mentioned here is a big reason I like the Reserve. Knowing I can get a 1.5cpp redemption with no thought having to be put into it is a really nice perk.

[@torrencesorrell5441]

@@SpencerJohnsonOfficial for sure! And like yourself I’m a big fan of their ecosystem (ease of use > multipliers)… as I also have my real estate business tied into Chase as well. I recently travelled to Houston to see a buddy from college and only had the VX priority pass so wasn’t able to get the credit at IAH’s restaurant. CSR PP would have definitely came in handy lol. With dash pass is it safe to say it’s worth $180 effectively (120 membership + 60 credit)?

[@luisserrano863]

Great video as always, good point that everyone has a different situation and each card might benefit them differently. The better priority pass, sapphire terrace at your home airport and broad travel categories and a great redemption bonus all definitely make this one a no brainer for sure!

[@SpencerJohnsonOfficial]

I appreciate you as always Luis!! It's definitely a valuable card for someone like myself, but that may not be the case for everyone!

[@GeeYo25]

I have the Amex Gold and CSP.. and I noticed you have the Amex Gold as well... how are you feeling having the Gold and CSR together? Do you utilize the gold for food and supermarkets, while the CSR is used for travel, etc? Kinda hesitant on having two cards with medium to high annual fees, but wondering if you are finding value in this combination.

[@JPBuffet]

Like the video off the title alone haha, nice upgrade.

[@SpencerJohnsonOfficial]

Haha thanks so much man! I had to think about that one for a while 🤣

[@MattWelterOfficial]

Absolutely love the 3x travel category on the Reserve. It definitely seems like the Sapphire Reserve makes a lot of sense within your travel preferences, and being able to take advantage of 1.5 cents/point guaranteed especially for domestic travel. Plus, the fact that the Reserve will allow you take advantage of having access to that Terrace lounge definitely makes sense with Austin being your home airport. Great video as always Spencer!

[@SpencerJohnsonOfficial]

Yeah man I'm stoked to have it in the setup! I imagine I'll be able to get quite a bit of value from it, but we'll have to see as time goes on. Thank you for the comment as always man!

[@Djinnz]

Do you think having the Chase Sapphire Preferred and the United ClubSM Infinite Card would make sense living in Houston ? I mostly fly United but I don't know if I would be better off with having the Reserve alone or the CSP & the United Infinite.

[@tarrius1210]

7:00 Spencer you can earn an unlimited 3% cashback at drug stores like Walgreens by purchasing gift cards for grocery stores, online streaming, travel and much more. So, you don't necessarily need the CSP for groceries and online streaming services. Remember, your freedom cards will be your daily spend drivers in the Chase Trifecta and the unlimited 3% cash back at drug store loop whole on the freedom cards is something the CC community rarely mentions.

[@SpencerJohnsonOfficial]

That's a fair way to do it! Since I have the Ink Cash, I would just get gift cards at an office supply store for 5% back, but the same logic applies. Good note!!

[@tarrius1210]

@@SpencerJohnsonOfficial Yes, I use the ink cash for that purpose as well. This can be a helpful hack for Chase fans holding their heads by the personal Chase Trifecta. Where there's a problem, I hope this can be a solid solution.

[@LL-007]

Spencer with another banger video‼️ I love the attention to detail w car rental status matches as someone who loves cars 🔥

[@SpencerJohnsonOfficial]

I appreciate you a ton! I'm glad the rental car status matching was appreciated. I may have to make a dedicated video on it in the future 🤷🏼‍♂️ Thank you for watching!

[@jimmyjames6492]

Thanks for the info + video!

[@Anthonyjones-pq4ff]

What about the United club Lounge will the reserve card let enter United club lounge at Airports

[@engineerengineer2218]

Great video Spencer, I recently upgraded from the csp to the csr. My reason was a little different, i have a ton of points ans the extra 0.25% made a difference larger than the annual fee of the card. Travel partners did not make sense for this trip. I also switch 6 months into my second year. The 300 dollar travel credit does not get prorated and you get the full value right away. I heard that the travel credit will be based on your switch date and not your card renewal date.

[@robotnik1937]

My home airport here in Louisville (SDF) has ZERO lounges so I have to look at it a different way. I’ll want lounge access in some way but it’s looking like I’ll be taking advantage of that benefit on flights back into Louisville

[@SpencerJohnsonOfficial]

Dang that's tough!! You'll definitely value access in other airports then!

[@smileychess]

My home airport (Boise) also doesn't have a lounge. But I've never understood the need for one in your home city anyway. I'd rather arrive on time and get away. Lounges sound only desirable for layovers and such, no?

[@AjaxxG]

I have a CFU and literally logged into my acct yesterday that said your approved for CSR and just accept. They did still checked my credit after accepting but I got it. Excited to use the perks

[@KevinGian94]

i'm from austin as well but never been able to utilize the sapphire terrace lounge since my flights are always early in the morning before 10am (when they open) and you can only access them when you're flying out of austin and not returning :/

[@KevinGian94]

@@davidwilliam9451 🤣🤣i think they have an indoor & an outdoor section

[@SpencerJohnsonOfficial]

Ah yeah those cheap flights are definitely in the morning, but there are a lot of times I'm flying in the afternoon so I'm excited to try it out then!

[@NurseMichaelTravels]

Yeah I had the CSR for a year, I’m in Austin too and I was never able to get into the lounge because of my flight times. I went once in the last 10min before closing, chugged a beer, the lounge was okay. They have like 2 or 3 seats inside and rest is outside lol. Kinda gave you lounge envy being right next to the Delta lounge too 😂 And I second David’s comment about the weather 😂😂. Ultimately the card wasn’t worth it for me.

[@JesseMeacham-n6v]

@15:43 You are referring to the expanded priority pass benefit for CSR? VX has unlimited PP access for primary + authorized users and unlimited guests for both which is insane..

[@SpencerJohnsonOfficial]

Correct! The VX will give you the most PP lounge access with that AU benefit, but you won't get any of the restaurant and spa benefits which the CSR does give you.

[@engineerengineer2218]

​@@SpencerJohnsonOfficial the VX has access to the Plaza premium lounges as well but does not add value to your home airport. If you don't fly often the VX, AMEX platinum, and USB AR priority pass memberships will get you one visit per year at the Chase lounges.

[@albertcastro409]

When you use your points to travel, that does not affect the $300 credit they give you?

[@bencalebrod]

Great video, I'm also planning to upgrade from the Preferred to the Reserve at the 1 year mark.

[@SpencerJohnsonOfficial]

Thanks so much! I'm excited to hear how much value you get from the CSR!

[@woodzy883]

Way to go. Really nice pick up.

[@SpencerJohnsonOfficial]

I appreciate you man!! It's already helped me on my trip to Florida last weekend getting into the Sapphire Terrace lounge and such, so I've liked it a lot already.

[@diamondshard2]

I whole heartedly agree about choosing the right card based on your home airport. My home airport is Denver and that mainly only have 3 options. That being, the newly opened C1 Lounge, the Centurion Lounge, and the gigantic United Clubs. But since I am not loyal to an airline and mainly go for the best fare, that just leaves me with the Centurion and C1 Lounges. And the Platinum card doesn't fit my spending habblits since I would make use of almost none of the credits other than maybe the travel credit. The C1 VX just made the most sense and I think it was the right choice. I would have definitely chosen the CSR if Denver had any priority pass lounges but, for some strange reason, they don't. So the C1VX was the best option for me. That being said, if a priority pass lounge opens or the priority pass restaurants in Denver are better than the abysmal choices there are now, then I can see myself jumping ship to the CSR over the C1VX. Regardless, the C1VX lounge in Denver is actually quite nice. I fully recommend it to anyone, the food is really good. 9.5/10

[@SpencerJohnsonOfficial]

This thought process is exactly what I hope everyone goes through! It sounds like you picked the best card for your specific use case right now and that's all that matters! I'll be sure to try out the C1 lounge when I'm back in Denver soon.

[@newagain9964]

Yup. C1VX and Amex plat have all the lounges I need. And high quality! PP is overrated. At least chase gives u PP restaurants as well..until next oct. lol

[@lashadow8]

I am thinking about product change from INK Business Cash to Ink Bus Preferred for the extra .25 point redemption vs a personal Preferred

[@JoseSantiago-yq7co]

I just did this yesterday,

[@SpencerJohnsonOfficial]

That could be a solid move, however, I’d recommend applying fresh for the Ink Preferred if you’re eligible for the bonus right now. You don’t wanna miss out on those points if you can help it!!

[@JoseSantiago-yq7co]

@@SpencerJohnsonOfficial Or one can apply for another ink cash. If one can hit the ink cash min spend in the 5X categories, the ink cash signup is a better deal than the ink preferred signup.

[@412foto]

Great video as always but still think the Reserve needs a refresh and better perks to offset the annual fee. Lounge access and TSA I have on other cards. Prefer to book directly with airlines or hotels not through their portal (and most likely would use Marriott or Hilton cards for hotel bookings), so 5x or 10x on those doesn't really appeal to me. The $50 credit on the Preferred is easy enough to use (glad they didn't go all Amex on it and make it $5 a month!) for one stay during the year and $45 effective annual fee is a lot easier to justify.

[@SpencerJohnsonOfficial]

Thank you! I'll be the first to welcome the changes to the CSR, but for now, I'll still get plenty of positive value and experience for the channel which I'm happy about. It sounds like sticking with the CSP is the best move for you though!

[@newagain9964]

Yeah. Chase travel PORTALS are bad. Cap one portal is surprisingly good.

[@TravelBossNas]

I can confirm that you need the 10k limit. I went to upgrade. And they said I have to have a 10k limit. I asked for the CLI and it was approved right on the spot (no credit pull) and then she product changed it to the CSR right after. For me the CSR is crucial. As my home airport is PDX and the only PP lounges are restaurants. So the CAR gives me access to that.

[@aaront936]

I've seen data points that said credit line increases count against 5/24.

[@TravelBossNas]

@@aaront936 it used to be because they would pull your credit. But not anymore. I made to sure to double check. Also she didn’t ask for my SSN and I never got a new account added to my credit report. And no inquiry either. In fact the card had the same card number.

[@NurseMichaelTravels]

I second the confirmation. I was able to move credit from another one of my cards to get to the 10k, no credit pull, etc.

[@SpencerJohnsonOfficial]

I appreciate you sharing that man! I was looking for that exact answer but couldn't confirm through my experience.

[@412foto]

Austin with 4 lounges...meanwhile my home airport is Pittsburgh...they have an American Airlines Admirals Club (which I can't justify the card to get into it) and a very outdated, small, and dirty Priority Lounge. But at least since I have to connect somewhere pretty much every time I fly too out of Pittsburgh, I still can use lounges in other cities at times.

[@SpencerJohnsonOfficial]

Hahaha it's slim pickings out there sometimes!

[@financeswithsam]

I just downgraded yesterday actually 😂 it was FANTASTIC for the first year - got TSA precheck, priority pass, 80k sign up bonus, $300 annual travel credit. Literally was 100% worth it for the year I had it. Downgraded for now just due to the annual fee and already have gotten the precheck and priority pass plus we aren’t traveling as much in 2024 as we did in 2023. A great churn and downgrade card for my wife and I, went with the Preferred for right now. But I can’t say enough solid things about the Reserve 👌

[@JoseSantiago-yq7co]

I did this too. Product changed the CSR in June to a CFU. When I tried to product change back to the CSR a few days ago, the customer service rep rejected my request to product change. So be careful, product changes back up may not always possible.

[@financeswithsam]

@@JoseSantiago-yq7co that’s a real quick turnaround to product change though. I imagine there’s some type of waiting period probably. But for sure, gotta understand what the downgrade means and make sure it aligns with what ya want! 🙌

[@JoseSantiago-yq7co]

@@financeswithsam Yes true, I will try again after a year.

[@SpencerJohnsonOfficial]

Haha perfect timing on this video then! That’s great to hear you were able to get so much value from it in year 1. Of course, as soon as you aren’t getting positive value it’s smart to downgrade it if you can, but I’m hoping it’ll be a staple in my wallet for a good amount of time! We’ll see 🤷🏼‍♂️

[@diamondshard2]

Im curious if you have the ability to change your priority pass membership from he C1VX to the CSR to get the restaurant access assuming you got both and got the C1VX card first. Are you able to reapply for priority pass under the CSR with the same name? Do they just add that perk under your existing account? how does that work?

[@SpencerJohnsonOfficial]

I'm going through that exact process right now and while I activated the benefit through Chase, I need to make sure it's reflected through PP. Through the PP website, it says all you have to do is update your payment information to the card you want to give you access to PP, so I'm hoping that solves it, but we'll see!

[@diamondshard2]

@@SpencerJohnsonOfficial Any update regarding if this process was an easy or relatively straightforward switch?

[@SpencerJohnsonOfficial]

So I just figured it out today. After activating PP through my CSR account with Chase, they sent me a new PP card associated with a new account. I called PP customer service and they said there's no way to merge the accounts, so I guess I have two PP accounts now, one for each card. Kinda annoying, but I see why they have to keep them separate.

[@diamondshard2]

@@SpencerJohnsonOfficial makes sense, annoying but relatively straightforward, thanks!

[@kamkarter8821]

My combo is CSP and AA Platinum cards. Very basic no lounge access.

[@10ahmedhassan]

Oh wow , I upgraded to CSR just in September. It is awesome that you can use 3 points for travel and redeem 1.5 times for any hotel not just small footprint of Hyatt

[@ryeyawn9396]

Hey Spencer! Great video. Just wondering - let's say I got the CFU without the CSP/R. Can I still earn UR points and kinda 'save' them until I end up getting either the Preferred or Reserve? I know it's an option to receive either cashback or UR points but I know access to the Ultimate Rewards Portal depends on whether you have either of those two cards. Any ideas on this? Thanks for your help!

[@91shawny]

He may not have responded but yes you can, CFU gives you access to the rewards portal and the points don’t expire so you can bank as much as you want and when you decide to get the CSP/R you can then transfer the points to that and benefit from the travel portal

[@ryeyawn9396]

@@91shawny Thanks!!!!

[@Ventjock]

@@91shawny does it go both ways? I'm planning on downgrading my CSP to CFU and then open a CSR so that i can get the SUB. I have around 60k UR points which I dont want to lose when I convert from CSP to CFU. I opened my CSP in 2018 so I should be eligible to get the SUB. thanks

[@91shawny]

@@Ventjock yes, if you downgrade the card, so long as it remains In the freedom family your points will still be banked. Once you open the CSR, you can transfer them right back there and use them how you see fit. I think the only way you’d lose the points is if you closed the card and lose access to the reward portals

[@Ventjock]

@@91shawny thank you! I guess I better get on it soon then

[@headlibrarian1996]

Are you sure rental car bookings through the portal earn status benefits? As with hotels rental car companies usually don’t permit that.

[@pg6299]

I upgraded my Preferred to the Reserve too 🤙🏽

[@SpencerJohnsonOfficial]

Good stuff! I hope you’ve been getting some good use out of it!

[@stacy_marie]

Great talking points. My CSP is at the 2 year mark this upcoming year BUT .. husband now has a new position that includes intermittent travel and this may be the way to go as his premium travel card. hmm He is a reluctant P2 but has already said he wants me to tell him which cards to get.

[@kimgrod]

I also live in Austin! As you probably know by now, the Sapphire lounge is open. Unfortunately, it opens at 10am. My habit is to take the 1st/an early flight outta ATX (less chance of delay). Don’t know if I’ll ever get to use this lounge.

[@goldfish3858]

this! I also live in Austin but since they only have a Terrace, I think it would be much better if Chase could redesign and expand the Terrace to a full lounge. Especially since this was the first establishment to be opened, I hope this can be considered and with that, expand their hours of operation because I also fly very early in the morning :)

[@AbesCreditPointers]

Excellent reasons even though the preferred is also amazing especially if you already own the venture x or platinum!

[@cruisingwithcaptaincliff]

Howdy Spencer - Since I already have Aspire Card and Venture X, I decided to apply for CSP instead of CSR which I was also approved. Now I am considering upgrading as well next year. Other than the SUB, what other benefits did you missed since you signed up for CSP then upgraded? I have $25K limit so I should be ok doing a product changed - hopefully when the time comes. Also, what's the difference with PP issued by Venture X and PP issued by CSR? I'm in San Antonio, TX but prefer flying out of IAH since there's PP lounge and also USO for retired/active duty military. I referred my son, TAMU College station alum, to Venture X, and he loves it:). I'll probably refer him to CSR as well. Thank you for sharing!

[@michaelkreck9168]

Spencer, I seek to upgrade to the CSR from the CSP. I know I cannot have both, so my dilemma is how to get the CSR card with its sign-up bonus and at the same time keep the CSP points I’ve heretofore earned. I have been under the impression that when one Product Changes, I.e., from CSP to CSR, you do not get access to the welcome bonus of the upgraded card. Is this true? During your Upgrade Video with Chase Sapphire Customer Service, I may have missed discussion on that topic, along with any references to what happens to the points I’ve heretofore earned with the CSP? Relevant Background: I have had my CSP for over 2 years and feel there is more value to me in the CSR. I foolishly missed the son-on bonus and am probably at 4/24 with no other non-name- branded Chase Cards. Any guidance would be much appreciated. Many thanks. Mike

[@Anthonyjones-pq4ff]

I remember when you apply for the chase perferr card in had it shipped over nite to you Spencer how long have you had the card before requesting upgrade to the reserve card ? Currently I’m still over Chase 5/24 rule I’m gardening for the time But when time is up Chase is on my radar Reserve & Ink business card.

[@EzularSocial]

Thank you for the Chase Sapphire Reserve review. Could you also make a video about the benefits of Visa Infinite?

[@kaina732]

If I plan to transfer points to partners, I am having a hard time seeing the need for me to go with the CSR. The CSR is a great card, but I still think I will go for the CSP and pair that with the AmEx Platinum (mainly for Lounge access). I'm at 4/24 and I am saving that spot for the CSP in Q1 2024 and then get the AmEx Platinum in Q3 2024 or later. Maybe I can upgrade to the CSR in 2025 if I think it is worth it.

[@SpencerJohnsonOfficial]

I think starting with the CSP is the way to go, especially if you never plan on using the travel portal. That's exactly what I did and over time I realized I could benefit from the CSR more, but it wouldn't have made sense for me in year one.

[@kaina732]

@@SpencerJohnsonOfficial I am also considering the upgrade from Marriott Bonvuy Boundless to The Ritz-Carlton card. Totally different subject, but I need to figure out if that would be worth it (along with the Plat).

[@reggiethecommenter9137]

I have the Ventue X as my primary and the CSP as my secondary. 135k sign up points and very good category coverage.

[@lashadow8]

I am torn between the CSP or opening the Marriot Bonvoy so that I can PC to the Ritz card in 1 year…Team Chase all the way!

[@MichaelPithium89]

Great move but why upgrade vs getting the card new and getting the sign up bonus

[@SpencerJohnsonOfficial]

I explain it more in depth in the video, but you can only get 1 Sapphire card bonus every 4 years. Since I'm coming up on my 2 year anniversary, I have 2 more years before I can get the bonus on either of the Sapphire cards. So the upgrade here makes sense as I'm not missing out on any SUB.

[@DB6904.]

Hi, how long is the wait before being able to upgrade from the preferred to the reserved?

[@GEN512X]

Is it true that Ritz Carlton card holders get access to the Sapphire lounge as well? Congrats on the OG metal card pickup Spencer!

[@MikeMaye]

I do get your point as to why CSR works better for you than the Platinum. Most cards multipliers/points earnings has everything to do with lifestyle and demographics. I wouldn't go with a card where the main multiplier is gas since I live in the city and don't need or have a car. I do however have the Platinum which works for me and I use the Centurion Lounge often at my airport here in NY.. Great vid Spencer 💥

[@SpencerJohnsonOfficial]

It's all about what works best for you, and maybe that is the Platinum card for me down the line. For now though, I'll get some hands on experience with the CSR. Thanks for watching as always Mike!

[@REIwAlexY]

wait... you are able to get a welcome bonus on EACH card EVERY 4 years!!? or is this only specifically apply to the chase sapphire?

[@SpencerJohnsonOfficial]

This is true for both of the Sapphire cards but you can only hold one Sapphire card at a time so keep that in mind.

[@IsaAndes]

How does one match AVIS highest tier if they have Hertz President's Circle?

[@SpencerJohnsonOfficial]

It's technically not available in the US and Canada, but I've read you can still try it through their status match email. I imagine you won't get through but it doesn't hurt to try I guess!

[@IsaAndes]

@@SpencerJohnsonOfficial thanks!

[@jordan23ww]

Great video! Thank you for sharing your experience with us and all the info! I have been wondering myself if I might upgrade too once I become eligible, after my 1 year anniversary. This video was very helpful! I heard the agent remind you to sign up for Priority Pass, which made me wonder, how does that work, if you already have a Priority Pass membership but then get additional cards with that perk? Do you link your account somehow with each eligible credit card? I have had Priority Pass through the Amex Platinum for a few years but now just got a Venture X that also has it.

[@JB-pk1jx]

You can double dip the travel credit if you upgrade to reserve which is worth it

[@Milkinporsche]

If I live in a place where the airport has sapphire lounge, upgrading is a must and not a question.

[@SpencerJohnsonOfficial]

That could definitely be true depending on how much you value those lounges!

[@scottshapiro2795]

Definitely feel you on airports affecting your lounge access. I just downgraded to the CSP as the CSR wasn't giving me much more than the VX. Our home airport is Dulles, so they have quite a few priority pass lounges and the new C1 lounge. If roles had been reversed and Dulles got a sapphire lounge and not a C1 lounge, I think I might have kept the CSR just for that home airport lounge access.

[@SpencerJohnsonOfficial]

I'm glad you resonated with that! That new C1 lounge in Dulles must be super nice to have. Hopefully one day I'll pass through and can use it!

[@naoyukili1144]

altitude reserve does gives you all benefits of pps

[@MattClausen]

It does…but only 8 passes a year…

[@naoyukili1144]

@@MattClausen that’s sufficient for me, I can use aspire/venturex’s pps for lounge access

[@WhatsThePoints1]

Is this true? I thought I heard in another video it didn’t get restaurants?

[@naoyukili1144]

@@WhatsThePoints1 absolutely true

[@WhatsThePoints1]

@@naoyukili1144 that’s good news because I travel a good bit and now since getting the AR I’d thought of downgrading my VX but I may keep it now since I do visit airports without lounges

[@aaront936]

Those 5 dollar dashpass credit can be rolled over month to month up to $15. Fyi

[@SpencerJohnsonOfficial]

Oh wow that's good to know! Thanks for the heads up!

[@thomasgajendran5377]

Chase rep wasn’t going to let me change up to the CSR on my anniversary and told me I needed a 10k limit on the CSP to upgrade, I asked for a CL increase on the call and they approved it on the spot and allowed me to then upgrade

[@SpencerJohnsonOfficial]

Thank you so much for sharing this! That's great to know. I guess since they require that on the Ritz card, it would've been a safe assumption to say they required it on the CSR, but I wasn't sure about that.

[@Inter7Quaresma]

Where does it say you get national executive status on chase sapphire reserve

[@chrispaulus4491]

I have both the CSR and the venture x. I’ve been traveling the world this year and both have their places. I actually used the CSR for two major appliance purchases for the warranty extensions. The capital one lounge in Dallas. I’ve used the CSR Priority Pass lounges in Australia, USA, New Zealand, Austria, and Ireland. Unfortunately, LAX is a wasteland for CSR benefits.

[@dsalmon1449]

Interesting comment about paying cash for travel. I travel a lot and I love the point game, but I can afford to pay cash for a lot of my domestic travel so I do. Saving points for a bigger redemption sometime in the next year though.

[@Angryman7800]

Did you ever get out of the Amex pop up?

[@SpencerJohnsonOfficial]

Yep! It just takes time and spend on Amex cards usually.

[@Angryman7800]

@@SpencerJohnsonOfficial I’m surprised!You didn’t get the platinum then ?!

[@dizzyg6862]

I’ve been on the fence about upgrading for the last year. I keep hoping Chase comes out with an upgrade offer to sway my decision!

[@Billy-4]

Nice tee shirt Spencer

[@SpencerJohnsonOfficial]

I appreciate that Billy!

[@davidhoopsfan]

sapphire reserve is great. it's a little disappointing that the priority pass for this card (and tbh any premium card) is wasted a bit for me due to my home airport being lax

[@SpencerJohnsonOfficial]

I get it! It can be great to have these added perks on a card, but if it doesn't help you out at all in your home airport, it makes it harder to justify.

[@jalabi99]

The only reason why I haven't done an upgrade from the CSP to the CSR: I'm 0/24 so want to downgrade my CSP to a Chase Freedom Unlimited then get a CSP with the elevated signup bonus. Thanks for this video!

[@alkarim9339]

do you get welcome bonus points by upgarding to csr

[@PaulPape-yi4th]

do your miles stranfer over

[@SpencerJohnsonOfficial]

Since I just product changed, everything with the account stayed the same other than the card itself, so the points are still all on the same card account!

[@faustinocisnerosjr8643]

I upgraded my CSP after watching this video, I been having it for 5 years now. But when I talked to the agent about the bonuses for upgrading he said I was not eligible since I was doing a product change not a new member!🤦🏻‍♂️

[@a-gappower1574]

As a dad with 4 kids, the CSR is a MASSIVE value. When traveling w/kids, we don’t care where we stay, what airline to fly etc. chase trav portal is vastly better than Amex, and we’re cashing in500k pts to fly and stay at Disneyland, CSP saved me over 100k points compared to booking through Amex, and CSR would have saved me another 100k pts

[@LK_EBM]

My CSP annual is coming up next week. I think I'm going to upgrade it to the CSR. I have a few trips planned next year and would like the better travel insurance as well!

[@weekendmixology3832]

Current CSP holder here, if I upgrade to the CSR months after the annual fee had posted on the CSP. It founds like they would adjustment/prorate the fee (which makes sense.) How about the benefits, is the $300 travel credit adjusted/prorated too? Hope that makes sense.

[@michaelnemerof7064]

I like the csr for international travel as more countries take visa than amex.

[@DJOctober]

Yo, this video was very needed as I want to upgrade my CFU to the CSP or CSR until I’m under 5/24 in 2025. Then I’ll product change down to the CFU again and open a CSP or CSR with a bonus offer. Thanks for showing us the process bro! Question: do you have to have the new card a year before you can downgrade again? Love your content! - Ivan

[@czrs85]

Not having cell phone protection is a ding for me as a visa. Since I don't have Amex platinum.

[@SpencerJohnsonOfficial]

That's fair! You can always get that on the Chase Freedom Flex if you want it on a Chase card.

[@czrs85]

@@SpencerJohnsonOfficial I agree with that but it is usually something visa infinite cards usually offer.

[@ant7158]

Bro You Should Do A Video On how many credit cards you Have And Why You Have Them

[@L-Man-Gaming]

I actually really like the card, what stopped me from getting it and going with the Venture X instead is that I don't like other Chase cards. In fact, I think just having the Venture X and a Preferred makes more sense because you are still going to get a lot of the perks of both cards but its still a lower AF at 490 vs 550. I see myself churning the Sapphire Reserve years down the line when I know Im going to be doing a ton of traveling.

[@newagain9964]

VX AF is $395. I plan to get CSR to replace vx 2024 (better travel benefits) and go head2gead with my Amex plat.

[@L-Man-Gaming]

My game has changed. Im better at credit cards and I am going with a Sapphire card next but it just depends which one has an elevated offer. Dont care if its the Reserve or Preferred just want an elevated offer. Im running the Freedom Flex for all of 2024 since I got the 5 percent back on grocery and gas for a year. Im getting rid of my Gold card. @@newagain9964

[@ryancable1728]

A quick note about Rental Car status... National Executive Elite matches from *Hilton Gold Status*. I would imagine most of us interested in a card like the CSR likely already have Hilton Gold at a minimum - which comes as a perk from holding SEVERAL different cards - easier way to match to National Executive Elite, and then on to other rental programs.

[@SpencerJohnsonOfficial]

That's a great note for sure! Thank you for sharing man!

[@lawyerdhop]

Is the upgrade guaranteed? Can you be denied?

[@AndrewOLoughlin-t8r]

CSR is 100% worth it if your home airport is Boston, with the new Sapphire lounge. That alone makes it worth the $250 difference between the travel credit and $550 annual fee, to me. The $300 credit covers MBTA passes, so it's virtually impossible to live here and not get it.

[@elliottnixon-wq6sp]

Nice video man. The Reserve just ain't for me. Here's the thing about that $300 travel credit: It feels less like a credit and more like 300 bucks was stolen from me when I pay the AF that I need to claw back. Since it's not a statement credit, I don't earn any points, making me feel like I'm $300 in the hole from the get-go. Lyft, Instacart and Doordash do nothing for me either so that's a bummer. So I'll stick with what I got. That said, in your hands, this card will be extra useful. This video is a good reminder that solid credit cards don't replicate from person to person.

[@SpencerJohnsonOfficial]

Thanks man! And honestly how you feel about the $300 travel credit is how you should feel about every annual fee you pay haha. All you're doing with an annual fee is prepaying for benefits you'll use down the line so it's all "stealing" from you in a sense. But like you said, all that matters is getting a card that makes sense for you and it sounds like you've done that which is great!

[@elliottnixon-wq6sp]

It’s why Amex’s coupon strategy can work really well. Key word: can. If you’re already paying $695 or more for the things from the Amex Platinum provides as credits, you come to the card agreement with an advantage. And again, they’re statement credits so I feel less bad about the wanton thievery hahaha

[@MattClausen]

Welcome to the club!

[@SpencerJohnsonOfficial]

Haha thank you sir! Happy to be here!

[@hunterreagan4801]

I go to DFW and I hardly ever get the chance to use clear. Lol

[@hunterreagan4801]

I also love the capital one lounge in DFW

[@SpencerJohnsonOfficial]

Dang that sucks haha. Unless that means you're getting through really quick without it! But I hope to get to the C1 lounge sometime soon... we'll see!

[@ksprincess]

I exclusively buy groceries online, so the PREFERRED is a slam dunk for me! (And the ONLY lounge at my airport is a Delta Sky Club...so never getting in there. LOL)

[@jamesyu613]

I personally like the CSP because of the 90k SUB and $50 on hotel credit, I do use it sometimes on my dining 3x and travel uses too.

[@SpencerJohnsonOfficial]

That's a great use case for the CSP, especially in the first year! While you're waiting to be eligible for another Sapphire bonus though, an upgrade could make sense! It's up to your use case.

[@jamesyu613]

@@SpencerJohnsonOfficialI agree, i'll prob just keep the CSP

[@Juliozev96]

I would upgrade my CSP as well, if it weren't for hearing all these horrid stories when there is a flight change, or any other complication and you book through a portal. For me, I usually book a hotel at one of the big chains anyways, and even if booking cash, the travel portal always seems to be a slightly higher price. Even with all that though, the CSR might still make sense if they make the instacart and doordash credits permanently, as those combined with the $300 travel credit make it have a lower effective annual fee than the CSP.

[@aaront936]

Priority pass restaurants is by far the biggest perk of the csr.

[@SpencerJohnsonOfficial]

I'm excited to get some use out of those!!

[@Rob-ew4bl]

I’d rather keep the CSP with the value. The CSP is fire for MS. Iykyk 😊.

[@OroborusFMA]

I didn't fine either worth it. I'm looking for cash back, not a two hour flight to some city I wouldn't otherwise visit.

[@haroldwolder8622]

The higher annual fee card I just want to give you more naturally

[@jamespoehlman9721]

CSP AND VENTURE X for the win and still 55 bucks cheaper than AF on CSR.