How to Apply For a Metal Credit Card
Credit cards made of metal are a trend that seems to be here to stay. Many are now crafted from flashy materials like titanium, while others make use of unique material designs.
The most exclusive metal credit cards are usually premium accounts that require excellent credit and income to qualify. However, most cards are available for anyone with a decent credit score.
Symbolism
In a world of shrinking branch networks and commodified payment services, metal cards are a powerful way to convey your brand’s value. They are a symbol of your company’s commitment to your customers and the people around them. They function as ambassadors to the brand’s products and services and can have an immediate impact on consumer perception of your credit card product.
Whether or not metal credit cards are a status symbol, they have certainly captured the attention of consumers and many major card issuers are now offering them. They can be made of brass, copper, brushed Metal Card stainless steel or even titanium. Some have a combination of materials and some are even trimmed in real gold or palladium.
These exclusive metal credit cards are usually geared toward high-spenders with good to excellent credit and are often seen as a status symbol. They are also a lot heavier than their plastic counterparts and have a premium feel.
Although some metal cards have hefty annual fees, others are available with no annual fee at all. One such card is the OneCard, which offers 5X rewards on your top two spend categories. It has a fully digital onboarding and activation process and gives the user control over their account through its powerful app. The card is a great choice for new cardholders who want to earn points quickly and get access to premium perks.
Durability
If you’re thinking of applying for a metal card, make sure to carefully weigh the benefits and drawbacks. Metal cards can be an attractive status symbol, but they may also come with higher annual fees and more restrictive perks. A good rule of thumb is to compare several credit cards before deciding on one.
Metal cards are sturdier than plastic, and they’re less susceptible to damage or wear and tear. They’re also more difficult to duplicate, which can help protect against fraud and theft. They can also be engraved with personalized information, making them more secure and recognizable.
In addition to credit cards, metal cards are used for airline and hotel membership cards, business cards, and even employee IDs that can be swiped to gain access to restricted areas or rooms. Using the right printing techniques, inks, substrate, and primer can ensure durability, allowing these cards to endure heavy use over time.
Generally, metal cards require a higher credit score than their plastic counterparts to qualify. This is because they often carry hefty rewards programs and minimum income requirements in addition to premium perks. However, if you’re looking for an alternative to plastic, there are several companies that offer metal cards as a premium option. The X1 Card, for example, is one of the most popular metal credit cards, offering an exclusive rewards program and verifying your income to determine your credit limit.
Convenience
The best metal credit cards are a status symbol for the wealthy, with opulent perks and a sleek look that stands out in a wallet. They are also more durable than plastic cards, which makes them a good choice for frequent travelers or those who carry around cash often.
The first metal credit cards debuted in 1999 and were premium cards that required excellent credit and a high income to qualify for. Today, many credit card issuers offer metal cards for more average consumers. While they are more durable nxp mifare desfire than plastic cards, the extra weight can be a turnoff for some.
If you want to use a metal credit card, you should compare your options to find a card that fits your financial needs and budget. Most metal cards come with a higher annual fee than plastic cards, so you should make sure the card has worthwhile perks that are worth the extra cost.
The HVB Visa Infinite Metal Card is a new card from Hypo Vereinsbank that offers the functionality of a modern credit card with the unique appearance and feel of a metal card. It combines metal and PVC layers front and back to provide an optimal weight for consumers, while offering contactless certification from global payment schemes and innovative printing features. The card is a perfect option for banks and fintechs looking to stand out from the competition with a premium product.
Security
While metal cards might look sleek and sophisticated, the fact is they are not a secure option. This is because they are more likely to set off metal detectors at airport security, where you have to remove all items in your pockets. This is also why a lot of people choose to carry a regular plastic credit card in addition to their metal card.
On the other hand, a metal credit card is more difficult to damage. While plastic cards can bend and snap, a metal card is less vulnerable to physical damage. As a result, they can last longer than their plastic counterparts.
Specific card metal materials vary across card issuers, and most keep this information under lock and key. However, metal cards are generally made from stainless steel or another type of solid, sturdy material that makes them resistant to bending and tearing.
When it comes to a metal credit card, you need to consider if its added benefits are worth the annual fee and eligibility criteria. For example, many metal cards come with premium air travel perks like priority boarding and access to airport lounges, which might be useful for frequent flyers or those looking to upgrade their travel experience. However, these extra perks will be offset by the card’s higher than average interest rate.