Capital One Venture X Review: Premium Travel Perks Without the Sky-High Fee

In this comprehensive review, we’ll explore what makes the Venture X stand out among the best travel credit cards. We’ll compare it to heavyweights like the Chase Sapphire Reserve and Amex Platinum, and reveal how it solves common traveler pain points.

Introduction

Travel enthusiasts often face a dilemma: they want top-tier perks like airport lounge access, big sign-up bonuses, and generous rewards, but cringe at the $550+ annual fees of premium cards. Enter the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card – a newcomer that offers a wealth of luxury travel benefits at a lower annual fee than competitors.

What makes the Venture X unique is its problem-solving approach for travelers:

• Problem: Premium travel cards are packed with perks but come with high fees and complicated benefits.

• Solution: The Venture X delivers similar luxury perks (lounges, credits, elite-like benefits) with a simpler, more value-driven package and a $395 annual fee – significantly less than rivals.

From unlimited lounge visits to a flexible rewards program, the Venture X is Capital One’s bid to join the ranks of the best travel credit cards. But does it live up to the hype? Let’s dive in, compare it to the Chase Sapphire Reserve and Amex Platinum, and see how you can maximize its rewards.

Learn more about the Capital One Venture X.

Key Takeaways

• Big Welcome Bonus: Earn a hefty 75,000 miles (worth at least $750 in travel) as a sign-up bonus, jumpstarting your rewards.

• High Earning Rates: 2X miles on all purchases means simple, powerful earning on everyday spending, plus 5-10X on travel booked via Capital One’s portal for even faster mileage accumulation.

• Valuable Annual Perks: A $300 annual travel credit (for bookings through Capital One Travel) and 10,000 anniversary miles every year (worth ~$100) effectively offset the $395 annual fee.

• Venture X Airport Lounge Access: Enjoy unlimited visits to 1,300+ lounges worldwide (including Priority Pass lounges and Capital One’s own lounges) for you and two guests – a perk usually found on pricier cards.

• Flexible Redemption Options: Use miles at a fixed value to erase travel purchases or transfer to 15+ airline and hotel partners for potentially higher value. No blackout dates or loyalty program lock-ins.

• Travel Protections & Extras: Comprehensive travel insurance (trip delay/cancellation, rental car coverage, baggage insurance), Global Entry/TSA PreCheck credit, Hertz President’s Circle status, and even cell phone protection are included.

• Competitive with Top Rivals: Stacks up impressively vs. Chase Sapphire Reserve and Amex Platinum by offering similar perks at a lower net cost, albeit with a slightly different approach to rewards.

Learn more about the Capital One Venture X.

Capital One Venture X Overview

The Capital One Venture X is a premium travel rewards credit card designed to make high-end travel perks more accessible. Here’s an overview of its key features and how they work:

Rewards Structure: Earn Capital One Miles Fast

• 2X on Everything: You earn 2 miles per dollar on all purchases, every day. This flat-rate earning is a hallmark of Capital One and makes the Venture X ideal for those who want strong rewards without juggling bonus categories. Whether it’s groceries, gas, or your Netflix subscription, you’re getting 2X miles consistently.

• 5X–10X on Travel: Through the Capital One Travel portal, the rewards ramp up. You get 5X miles on flights (and vacation rentals) booked through the portal, and a whopping 10X miles on hotels and rental cars booked there. These elevated rates reward you for using Capital One’s booking platform, which features thousands of options often at competitive prices.

• No Caps or Rotating Categories: All these earning rates are unlimited – no earnings caps, no quarterly categories to activate. This simplicity is a relief for travelers who want to maximize rewards without fine print hassles.

What does this mean in practice? Suppose in a year you spend $5,000 on hotels and rental cars (booked via Capital One Travel), $2,000 on flights through the portal, and $20,000 on everyday purchases. You would earn:

• 50,000 miles from hotels/car rentals (10X on $5,000)

• 10,000 miles from flights (5X on $2,000)

• 40,000 miles from other purchases (2X on $20,000)

That’s 100,000 miles in one year of spending, worth at least $1,000 toward travel (and potentially more if you transfer to partners). Clearly, the Venture X’s rewards structure can be extremely lucrative, even with moderate travel spending.

Learn more about the rewards.

Annual Fee and Value Proposition

The Venture X charges a $395 annual fee, positioning it hundreds of dollars lower than peers like the Sapphire Reserve ($550) or Amex Platinum ($695). The key question: Is this fee worth it? For most frequent travelers, the answer is a resounding yes – largely because the card’s built-in perks offset the fee with ease:

• $300 Travel Credit: Each cardmember year, you get $300 in statement credits for bookings made through Capital One’s travel portal. Use this for a flight, hotel, or rental car you’d book anyway, and you’ve immediately reduced the effective cost of the card to $95. The credit is automatically applied when you book through the portal, making it hassle-free. (Note: Unlike Chase’s travel credit which works on any travel purchase, Venture X’s credit requires using their portal – but with a little planning, it’s easy to use.)

• 10,000 Anniversary Miles: Starting at your first anniversary (and every year thereafter), you receive 10,000 bonus miles just for holding the card. That’s equivalent to $100 toward travel if redeemed at the base rate. Now our net effective cost of the card is down to roughly -$5 – essentially the card pays you back in value!

• Additional Value: We haven’t yet counted the lounge access, elite status perks, or insurance protections. These don’t have a simple dollar value but can easily be worth hundreds if you use them. For example, airport lounge membership alone can cost $400+ per year if bought separately.

In short, Capital One built the Venture X to “pay for itself.” If you take advantage of the travel credit and anniversary miles, you’re getting $400 in value, which covers the $395 fee. Everything else – lounge access, rewards, protections – is gravy.

Learn more about the annual fee.

Travel Perks and Benefits

One of the biggest reasons to get a premium travel card is for the VIP perks. The Venture X doesn’t disappoint, offering a suite of benefits comparable to much pricier cards:

• Airport Lounge Access: The Venture X includes complimentary airport lounge access through multiple programs. Cardholders (and authorized users) get unlimited access to Capital One Lounges (currently open in Dallas (DFW), Washington Dulles (IAD), and Denver (DEN) with more locations on the way) and the Priority Pass network of 1,300+ lounges worldwide. Venture X airport lounge access also allows you to bring two guests for free on each visit (children under 2 are also free). This generous guest policy means you can relax in comfort with family or friends while traveling. For context, lounge access with guest privileges is a perk usually associated with top-tier cards – Venture X delivers it at a lower cost. (By comparison, Amex Platinum gets you into Centurion and Priority Pass lounges but recently tightened guest access policies, while Chase Sapphire Reserve also offers Priority Pass with guests.)

• Authorized Users Fly Free (in lounges): You can add up to 4 authorized users at no charge. Each of them also gets their own lounge access privileges (including Priority Pass membership) and can bring guests. This is a standout benefit – many premium cards charge $75 or more for each additional user. If you travel with family or have a spouse/partner, giving them a Venture X authorized card means they enjoy the lounge perks (and you earn miles on their spending) with zero extra cost.

• Global Entry/TSA PreCheck Credit: A must-have for frequent flyers, Venture X will reimburse your application fee for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck (up to $100) every four years. Charge the fee to your card and it’ll be credited back. This helps you speed through security and immigration lines – a quality of life perk that makes travel less stressful.

• Hertz President’s Circle Status: As a Venture X cardholder, you can enroll for Hertz President’s Circle elite status. This is Hertz’s top-tier for frequent renters, offering benefits like car upgrades, skip-the-line service, and bonus points on rentals. If you ever rent cars, this perk can make the experience smoother and more rewarding (literally).

• Travel Insurance & Purchase Protections: Despite the lower fee, Venture X is a Visa Infinite card and packs a full slate of protections:

  • Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance: Get reimbursed if your trip is canceled or cut short due to covered reasons (weather, illness, etc.).

  • Trip Delay Coverage: If your flight is severely delayed (e.g. 6+ hours), you can claim expenses like hotels or meals up to a certain amount.

  • Lost Luggage Reimbursement & Baggage Delay Insurance: Compensation if your bags are lost or delayed.

  • Primary Rental Car Collision Damage Waiver: Decline the rental agency’s insurance – if you pay with Venture X, you’re covered for damage/theft of most rental cars.

  • Travel Accident Insurance: Coverage in case of worst-case scenarios while traveling.

  • Cell Phone Protection: Pay your monthly cell phone bill with the Venture X, and your phone is insured against damage or theft (up to a certain amount) after a small deductible.

  • Extended Warranty & Purchase Protection: For items bought with the card, warranties may be extended and new purchases are covered against damage or theft for a limited time.

  These protections give peace of mind that your adventures (and purchases) are covered. Not every travel card at this fee level includes all of these, so Venture X stands out for offering a very comprehensive benefits package.

• Premier Collection Hotel Perks: Capital One has a luxury hotel program called the Premier Collection (similar to Amex’s Fine Hotels & Resorts or Chase’s Luxury Hotel & Resort Collection). When you book high-end hotels through the Premier Collection with your Venture X, you get extra perks like a $100 experience credit (which can be used on dining, spa, etc.), daily complimentary breakfast for two, room upgrades when available, and more. This can elevate a special trip and adds real value if you enjoy luxury hotel stays.

In sum, the Venture X aims to cover every angle of travel: from your flights (lounge access, credits) to your stays (hotel perks, car rental status) to the unfortunate surprises (insurance protections). It’s a premium travel experience in your wallet.

Learn more about the travel perks.

Redemption Options: How to Redeem Capital One Miles for Travel

Earning tons of miles is great – but how easy and valuable are they to use? The good news is Capital One miles are extremely flexible and straightforward to redeem:

• Travel Purchase Eraser (Fixed-Value Redemption): Perhaps the simplest method: book any travel (flight, hotel, rental car, cruise, etc.) with your Venture X card, then go to your account and use your miles to “erase” the charge. Every mile is worth a flat 1 cent toward travel. For example, if you have 50,000 miles, you can cover $500 of travel expenses. There are no blackout dates or restrictions because you’re literally booking like a cash purchase. This is a favorite method for those who value flexibility – you can choose any airline or hotel and still pay with miles after the fact.

• Book Through Capital One Travel: You can use miles directly to book travel in the Capital One Travel portal. The value is also 1 cent per mile (so that same 50,000 miles can book a $500 flight or hotel in the portal). This works similarly to using miles to erase a purchase, but you’re using the portal’s interface (which is powered by Hopper and often has price prediction features and price drop protection on flights). Using miles to book directly can be handy if you want to mix miles and cash for a purchase or take advantage of Capital One Travel’s features.

• Transfer to Travel Partners: For those seeking maximum value (especially for luxury travel), Capital One allows you to transfer your miles to 15+ airline and hotel loyalty programs. This is where miles can potentially be worth well above 1 cent each. For example, you can transfer miles to partners like Air Canada Aeroplan, Avianca LifeMiles, British Airways Avios, Emirates Skywards, Singapore KrisFlyer, Wyndham Hotels, and more. The transfer ratios are often 1:1 (1 Capital One mile becomes 1 partner point in most programs). If you redeem smartly – say, transferring to an airline to book a business class ticket that would cost $$$ in cash – you might get 2 cents or more per mile in value. This means those 75,000 bonus miles could potentially book a flight worth $1,500+. It requires more research and planning, but Capital One miles give you that upside potential that pure cash-back or fixed-value points lack.

• Other Options (Less Optimal): You can also redeem miles for gift cards or even cash back (as a check or account credit), but these typically yield less value (often around 0.5 cents to 0.8 cents per mile). Given the ease of getting 1 cent minimum on travel, it’s usually best to use your Venture X miles for travel-related redemptions.

Importantly, Capital One miles do NOT expire as long as your account is open, and there are no limits to how many you can redeem. There are also no blackout dates when using the purchase eraser or portal. The flexibility here is a huge plus – whether you’re a points novice who just wants a free flight now and then, or a points expert scheming a first-class adventure, Venture X has you covered.

Learn more about the redemption options.

APR and Other Fees

While it’s best to avoid carrying a balance on a rewards card (to fully enjoy your travel rewards without interest costs), here are the Venture X’s basic rates and fees for completeness:

• APR: The ongoing APR for purchases is variable (around 19.99% - 29.99% based on creditworthiness). There is no introductory 0% APR offer for this card – it’s designed for people who generally pay in full. If you do plan to carry a balance or need to finance a purchase, a lower-interest or 0% intro APR card would be better suited.

• Foreign Transaction Fees: None. As expected from a travel card, you won’t pay extra for charges made abroad. The Venture X is a Visa, widely accepted worldwide, so it’s an excellent companion on international trips with no added fees when you use it overseas.

• Other Fees: There’s no fee for additional authorized user cards (as noted), which is a nice rarity. Balance transfer and cash advance fees do apply (if you ever use those features). Late or returned payment fees can be up to $40. Essentially, standard fee terms aside from the annual fee are in line with other cards.

• Credit Level Required: You’ll typically need excellent credit to be approved for the Venture X, given its premium status. If you’re still building credit, you might consider other cards first, as this one is aimed at consumers with a strong credit history and higher income to support a larger credit line.
  
  

Learn more about the fees.

Sign-Up Bonus & Earning Potential

The Capital One Venture X currently offers one of the most enticing welcome bonuses in the market, especially relative to its annual fee. Here’s what you get and how to make the most of it:

• Sign-Up Bonus: 75,000 bonus miles after you spend $4,000 on purchases within the first 3 months from account opening. This bonus is a huge head start – at minimum it’s $750 in travel value (if you redeem via statement credits or the portal). If you leverage airline transfer partners, the bonus could be worth $1,000 or more. For instance, 75k miles could potentially score you a round-trip business class flight to Europe or several domestic flights in economy, depending on how you use them.

To put this in perspective, 75,000 miles from Venture X is on par with or better than what the Chase Sapphire Reserve (often ~60,000 points) or Amex Platinum (~80,000 points but with almost double the spending requirement) typically offer. It’s a generous incentive that makes the first year especially rewarding.

• First-Year Earning Example: Consider a “typical” first-year spending scenario for someone who travels moderately:

  • $10,000 on travel (flights, hotels, etc.). Let’s say half ($5k) you book via Capital One Travel to really capitalize on 5-10X rates, and the other half you book directly with airlines/hotels.

  • $15,000 on other everyday expenses (dining, groceries, shopping, bills, etc.).

  Miles Earned:

  • From $5,000 travel via portal (assuming mix of hotels and flights): ~40,000 miles (example: $3k hotels at 10X = 30k, $2k flights at 5X = 10k).

  • From $5,000 travel booked outside portal (flights direct, etc.) at 2X: 10,000 miles.

  • From $15,000 other purchases at 2X: 30,000 miles.

  • Subtotal from spending = 80,000 miles.

  • Add the 75,000-mile welcome bonus.

  • Total = 155,000 miles in year one. That’s at least $1,550 worth of travel, again likely more if optimized with transfers.

  Plus, remember you’ll get those 10,000 anniversary miles at the end of year one, essentially bumping your total to 165,000 miles for the first year. That kind of earning power for a net cost of ~$95 (after using the travel credit) is a stellar deal. It’s not an exaggeration to say the Venture X can pay for a couple of well-earned vacations within the first 12-18 months of having it.

• Ongoing Years: After the first-year bonanza, the focus is on continued rewards from spending and the annual perks. If your spending is similar, you could expect tens of thousands of miles each year from purchases. For example, even a more modest $20k annual spend (with some through the portal) might yield ~50k-60k miles/year, which is $500-$600 in travel value on top of the $300 credit and 10k mile bonus you get every year. So long as you travel enough to use the credits and lounges, the Venture X remains extremely rewarding year after year.

Learn more about the signup bonus.

Capital One Venture X vs. Chase Sapphire Reserve

How does the Venture X stack up against the well-known Chase Sapphire Reserve (CSR)? Both are elite travel cards, but there are key differences that could make one or the other a better fit for you. Let’s compare their major features:

Annual Fee & Credits:

• Venture X: $395 annual fee. Comes with $300 travel credit (Cap One portal) + 10k miles ($100) each year = effectively you can recoup $400 in value.

• Sapphire Reserve: $550 annual fee. Comes with a $300 travel credit that’s very flexible – it automatically applies to any travel purchase (airfare, hotels, taxis, etc.) until you’ve earned $300 back each year. After using that, you effectively have a $250 net fee. No annual point bonus like Venture X’s anniversary miles, but CSR does offer some annual perks (e.g., a yearly Lyft Pink membership credit, DoorDash credits in the past, which vary over time).

Rewards Earning:

• Venture X: 10X on hotels/rental cars and 5X on flights (but only via Capital One Travel), 2X on everything else.

• Chase Sapphire Reserve: 3X on all travel (after the first $300 is credited) and 3X on dining (both broadly defined), 1X on other purchases. Also 10X on hotels, car rentals and 5X on flights booked through Chase’s travel portal (very similar structure for portal bookings), plus temporary 10X on Lyft (through March 2025).

Analysis: If you spend heavily on dining and general travel, the Sapphire Reserve’s 3X categories shine, meaning you don’t have to book through a portal to get elevated rewards. On the other hand, Venture X’s 2X flat rate on everything can outpace CSR’s 1X on non-travel, non-dining spend. For travel booked via each card’s portal, the earning rates are comparable (10X/5X on hotels/flights). So, if you’re okay using the issuer’s portal for big travel bookings, both cards reward you handsomely; if you prefer booking directly, CSR gives more on travel (3X vs 2X) and especially dining (3X vs 2X). Venture X is better for everyday, non-category purchases with that steady 2X.

Travel Redemption Value:

• Venture X: Points (miles) are worth 1 cent each for any travel redemption, but can be transferred to partners for potentially more (roughly 1.1 to 2 cents each or higher, depending on usage).

• Sapphire Reserve: Chase Ultimate Rewards points are also transferable to partners at 1:1 (great options like United, Hyatt, etc.). Additionally, CSR offers a fixed 50% bonus value when you redeem points through the Chase travel portal – effectively making each point worth 1.5 cents. For example, 60,000 Chase points = $900 in travel via their portal.

Analysis: Both have excellent flexible redemption. Chase’s unique perk is that 1.5x boost in their portal – it’s simple and powerful, meaning you can get extra value without dealing with transfers if you don’t want to. Capital One doesn’t have a points multiplier in their portal (just the standard 1 cent per mile). However, Capital One has in the past offered transfer bonuses to certain partners (like 20% more points if you transfer to a specific airline during a promo), which can increase value. If you prefer not to deal with partner programs at all, the CSR might deliver slightly higher value per point (1.5 cents vs 1 cent). If you’re willing to transfer to travel partners, both programs can yield great value, though Chase’s partners include some fan-favorites (Hyatt, United, Southwest) that Capital One doesn’t have, and vice versa.

Lounge Access:

• Venture X: Priority Pass membership with unlimited visits, plus Capital One Lounges access (with 2 free guests) as discussed. Authorized users also get lounge access free.

• Sapphire Reserve: Priority Pass Select membership with unlimited access (and guests free). Chase is also starting to open its own Sapphire Lounge network, but it’s very limited (a couple of locations possibly coming online). No free authorized user cards – adding an AU costs $75 each, and those AUs get Priority Pass too.

Analysis: Both give you Priority Pass (so in practice, similar access to 1,300 lounges worldwide). Venture X currently has an edge with its Capital One Lounges, which are high-quality but only a few exist so far. If you frequently travel through Dallas, Denver, or D.C., that’s a nice perk. Chase’s Sapphire lounges are not yet a major factor as they’re just rolling out. Also, Venture X’s ability to add multiple authorized users for free (each with their own lounge privileges) is a big win for family travelers. CSR’s lounge guest policy is solid for the primary cardholder (Priority Pass usually allows 2 guests free as well), but if you wanted to give a family member their own card to go lounge without you, it’ll cost extra.

Other Benefits:

• Travel Protections: Both cards are excellent here. Chase Sapphire Reserve is known for top-tier travel insurance benefits (trip cancellation/interruption, delay, primary car rental insurance, etc.) – Venture X matches many of these, so both are reliable for coverage when things go wrong.

• Elite Status/Other Perks: CSR offers Lyft Pink membership for a year (for sign-ups by 2024) and some DoorDash credits (promos that have been extended at times). It also gives Visa Infinite Concierge service (as does Venture X) for help with reservations, etc. Venture X’s unique perks include the Hertz status, and the simplicity of its annual miles bonus.

• Acceptance: Venture X (Visa) will be accepted in more places abroad than CSR (Visa as well) – actually both are Visa Infinite (Chase moved CSR from Visa Signature to Infinite), so acceptance is equal and universally excellent. Both have no foreign fees.

Bottom Line – Venture X vs. Sapphire Reserve:

• Choose Capital One Venture X if you want a lower annual fee with built-in perks that basically nullify that fee, love the idea of 2X on everything (simplicity), and will use the lounge access for you and family. It’s fantastic for value-conscious travelers who still want luxury.

• Choose Chase Sapphire Reserve if you spend big in dining and travel categories where 3X earnings will outpace 2X, and/or you prefer that easy 1.5x redemption boost in Chase’s portal. It’s great for those who want maximium points earning on travel & dining and an extremely flexible travel credit.
  Both cards are flexible with points and loaded with travel perks. In fact, some avid travelers hold both, but if you’re picking one, it comes down to your spending habits and how much fee you’re comfortable paying upfront. Venture X clearly wins on sheer bang-for-buck, while Sapphire Reserve can reward bigger spenders a bit more generously in certain areas.

Capital One Venture X vs. Amex Platinum

Now let’s pit the Venture X against The Platinum Card® from American Express, another iconic premium card. The Amex Platinum has long been synonymous with luxury, so how does our upstart Venture X compare?

Annual Fee & Credits:

• Venture X: $395 annual fee, offset by $300 flexible travel credit (portal bookings) + 10k miles ($100) each year. Net cost can be near $0 if utilized.

• Amex Platinum: $695 annual fee – the highest of the bunch. However, Amex justifies this with a smorgasbord of credits: $200 airline fee credit, $200 Uber Cash (for rides or Uber Eats, doled out monthly), $200 hotel credit (on Fine Hotels & Resorts bookings), $189 CLEAR credit, $100 Saks Fifth Ave credit (split $50 in first half and $50 in second half of year), among others like Equinox fitness credit, digital entertainment credit, etc. In total, the Platinum offers over $1,400 in possible credits – but here’s the catch: they’re highly segmented and you only get full value if you use all these specific services. Many cardholders won’t use everything (for example, if you don’t live near an Equinox gym or shop at Saks, those credits might go partially unused).

• Analysis: Venture X is straightforward – one travel credit that most travelers can easily use in one go, versus Amex’s multiple credits that require more management. If you maximize Amex Platinum’s credits, you can far exceed the fee in value, essentially “making money” on the card. But it requires a lifestyle that fits those credits. Venture X’s approach is simple value with minimal effort.

Rewards Earning:

• Venture X: 10X on hotels/rental cars via portal, 5X on flights via portal, 2X everywhere else.

• Amex Platinum: 5X Membership Rewards points on flights booked directly with airlines or through Amex Travel (on up to $500k spent per year – basically unlimited for most folks), and 5X on prepaid hotels booked through Amex Travel. Only 1X on other purchases.

• Analysis: For airfare purchases, the Amex Platinum is king – 5X is an outstanding return (though note: you don’t get bonus on flight bookings made through third-party sites, only direct or via Amex). If you spend a lot on flights, Platinum racks up points very fast. For hotel bookings, Platinum’s 5X on prepaid Amex Travel bookings is good, but Venture X’s 10X on hotels via its portal is double that (albeit you might choose Amex’s Fine Hotels program for luxury stays with perks, where you’d get 5X, vs Venture X’s portal which might not have those same luxury perks aside from Premier Collection bookings). On general spend, Platinum is a weak 1X – not ideal for everyday use (most Platinum cardholders pair it with a good everyday card like Amex Gold or others). Venture X gives 2X on everything, making it a better one-card solution. So, if you’re not an ultra-frequent flyer or if you want to use one card for most spending, Venture X easily wins on earning structure.

Point Value & Transfers:

• Venture X: Capital One miles worth 1 cent on travel or transferable to partners (~1:1).

• Amex Platinum: Earns Membership Rewards (MR) points. These do not have a fixed travel portal value boost (if used through Amex’s portal, points are worth 1 cent each on flights, ~0.7 cents on other travel, unless you hold the Amex Business Platinum which has a different rebate feature). MR points are best used by transferring to Amex’s extensive list of 20+ airline/hotel partners (which includes Delta, British Airways, Emirates, Singapore, Marriott, etc.). Amex is the king of transfer partners and often runs transfer bonuses (e.g., 30% more points when transferring to a specific airline). So like Capital One, you can extract great value via transfers, sometimes even higher if you know the sweet spots.

• Analysis: Both programs offer high upside via transfers. Amex has more partners and some unique ones (e.g., Delta which Capital One doesn’t have), but Capital One has been expanding its partners as well and both have a lot of overlap (Aeroplan, Avianca, FlyingBlue, etc.). If you prefer simplicity and occasionally using points for straight travel purchases, Venture X is easier (Amex really nudges you to transfer for good value, since using points directly on travel isn’t as rewarding on Platinum). If you are a points aficionado, either program can work wonders; Amex might have a slight edge for variety of partners.

Luxury Perks:

• Airport Lounges: This is a big one.

  • Venture X, as discussed, gives Priority Pass (with guests) and its own Capital One Lounges access for cardholder + guests + authorized users.

  • Amex Platinum provides extensive lounge access: Amex Centurion Lounges (high-end lounges Amex operates in many major airports, known for gourmet food and craft cocktails), Delta Sky Clubs (when flying Delta that day), Priority Pass (but no free guests on Priority Pass after Feb 2023, unless you spend $75k/year on the card – a recent change that makes bringing guests costly at $32 each; also Amex’s Priority Pass excludes the restaurant lounges that some Priority Pass memberships allow). Platinum also gives entry to Airspace and Escape lounges, and coming soon some Plaza Premium lounges as part of a partnership.

  • Analysis: If you travel solo or just one companion, both cards get you into a ton of lounges. Platinum’s Centurion Lounges are often more premium than typical Priority Pass lounges, but they can be crowded. Venture X’s Capital One Lounges are few but fantastic where available (quality on par with Centurion, with features like craft cocktails, relaxation rooms, even a cycling room at DFW). For families or bringing guests, Venture X is much more guest-friendly (2 free guests always, vs Platinum’s no free guest policy for its main lounge networks unless you pay $175 to add an authorized user, who then gets their own access). Also note, Platinum charges $175 annually for up to 3 authorized user cards (which then have many of the same lounge perks); Venture X, again, $0 for up to 4 AUs. This makes Venture X a winner for group travel scenarios, while Platinum might be better for the individual luxury traveler who frequents airports with Centurion lounges.

• Hotels: Amex Platinum shines with hotel perks. It gives you automatic Gold status at Marriott Bonvoy and Hilton Honors (mid-tier statuses that can get you room upgrades, bonus points, late checkout). It also has the Fine Hotels & Resorts (FHR) program: when you book luxury hotels through FHR with your Platinum, you get benefits like room upgrade, free breakfast, $100 property credit, late checkout, etc. (Venture X’s Premier Collection is similar, but Amex’s network is larger and well-established). Venture X doesn’t grant broad hotel elite status or have quite as expansive a luxury hotel program (Premier Collection is newer and only for select high-end hotels).

• Other Travel/Lifestyle Perks: Platinum offers things like an annual fee credit for CLEAR (expedited security program), elite status with rental car companies (Hertz Gold, National Executive, Avis Preferred Plus), and various invitation-only experiences. Venture X’s main extra perk here was the Hertz status. Platinum also has a Concierge and access to its Global Dining access program through Resy, etc., for exclusive restaurant reservations. These are more niche but cater to the luxury lifestyle.

• Insurance Protections: Historically, Amex Platinum lacked trip cancellation insurance, but Amex added it in recent years. Platinum now has trip delay, trip cancel/interruption, baggage, rental car (secondary coverage, not primary unless you enroll in a paid premium car rental protection), and so on – but note, Amex’s rental car coverage is secondary by default. Venture X’s is primary. Both have similar purchase protections and extended warranty (Amex is known for strong purchase protection). Both have cell phone insurance (Platinum added it recently if you pay your cell bill with it).

Bottom Line – Venture X vs. Amex Platinum:

• Choose Capital One Venture X if you’re looking for a premium experience at a moderate cost. It’s perfect for travelers who want lounge access, solid rewards, and strong protections without juggling dozens of credits. It’s also better for those who want to put a lot of spending on one card (because of 2X on everything). Families and everyday spenders will find Venture X more rewarding.

• Choose Amex Platinum if you value luxury perks above all and don’t mind a high annual fee (especially if you can use or justify most of the credits). For heavy travelers – particularly those flying often and staying in upscale hotels – the Platinum’s 5X points on airfare and rich hotel benefits are extremely attractive. Also, if you are loyal to or frequently stay with Marriott/Hilton, the automatic Gold statuses are nice. Platinum is ideal for a traveler who maximizes perks like Centurion Lounges, Fine Hotels & Resorts, and all the various credits (Uber, airline fee, etc.) – essentially, someone who will squeeze every drop of value from a card.

In many ways, the Platinum is a luxury lifestyle card with travel at its core, whereas the Venture X is more of a practical travel workhorse that still feels luxe. If the Platinum is a first-class cabin with caviar, the Venture X is a business-class seat with a great meal – both get you there in comfort; one is just a bit more extravagant (and expensive).

Best Strategies to Maximize Venture X Rewards

The Venture X is a powerhouse, but like any tool, using it wisely will unlock its full potential. Here are some pro tips and strategies to get maximum reward and value from your card:

• Leverage the $300 Travel Credit Early: Plan to use your $300 travel credit every cardmember year as soon as feasible – perhaps for a flight or hotel you know you’ll need. Not only does this ensure you don’t forget to use it, but it also effectively brings down your out-of-pocket cost for the card right away. Using the credit early in your cardmember year means you’ll start reaping net gains sooner. Remember, you must book through the Capital One Travel portal for the credit to apply. The portal often has competitive prices, but it’s always wise to compare with other sites to ensure you’re getting a good deal. If prices are similar, book in the portal, get your credit, and earn 5X or 10X miles on that booking to boot!

• Always Earn at Least 2X (Pair with Other Cards if Needed): With a flat 2X on everything, the Venture X should be your go-to for any purchase where you don’t have a higher reward card. For example, if you have no other specialized reward card, feel confident putting all spend on Venture X and know you’re getting a strong return. However, if you want to optimize further, consider pairing the Venture X with a no-fee Capital One SavorOne card (which earns 3% cash back on dining, grocery, and entertainment). You can convert that cash back into miles (at a rate of 1 cent = 1 mile) by moving rewards to your Venture X account. This effectively lets you earn 3X miles on those categories! Using Venture X for travel and other spend, and SavorOne for dining/groceries/entertainment, is a killer combo – you’ll turbocharge your miles earnings without paying an extra annual fee on the second card.

• Utilize Venture X Airport Lounge Access: Don’t be shy about using the lounge benefits. Whether it’s a long layover or just arriving at the airport early, lounge access can save you money (free food and drinks instead of overpriced airport concessions) and make travel more relaxing (comfortable seating, Wi-Fi, sometimes even showers or nap rooms). With Priority Pass, you have options at airports worldwide – just check the Priority Pass app to see which lounges (or airport restaurants with credits, where applicable) are available. And if you have traveling companions, remember you can bring two guests for free. Over a year of trips, this could easily save a family hundreds of dollars in airport meals and provide a stress-free pre-flight experience. It’s a prime engagement and retention feature – once you get used to lounges, it’s hard to travel without them!

• Transfer Miles to Trusted Partners for Big Trips: If you’ve accrued a large stash of miles and have a dream trip in mind, look into Capital One’s transfer partners. For instance, transfer to Air Canada Aeroplan to book Star Alliance flights, or to Avianca LifeMiles for some great Star Alliance deals, or to British Airways for cheap short-haul flights (like within Europe or Asia) on OneWorld partners. Maybe transfer to Emirates for a splurge on their business or first class. It does require joining the partner’s loyalty program (free) and checking award availability, but the payoff can be huge. This strategy is how some cardholders turn their Venture X miles into unforgettable experiences worth far more than the 1 cent per mile baseline. There are plenty of guides online on how to redeem Capital One miles for travel via transfers, detailing the best partners for various destinations – it’s worth exploring when you’re planning something special.

• Don’t Overlook the Anniversary Miles: When your card’s anniversary hits, Capital One will deposit that 10,000-mile bonus into your account (typically within a month or two after you pay your annual fee for the next year). That’s an easy $100 value (or more if you transfer and use strategically). Consider it a rebate on the fee. Essentially, every year you keep the card, you’re getting a free $100+ trip credit via these miles. Make sure to use them – either save up for a big redemption or apply them periodically to erase travel costs. It’s like getting a mini sign-up bonus every year.

• Add Authorized Users (Strategically): If you have a partner or family member who travels or spends significantly, adding them as an authorized user on your Venture X can be a smart move. It costs nothing extra, they get their own Priority Pass card and can enjoy airport lounges even when you’re not traveling with them, and all their spending earns you 2X miles as well. It’s a win-win, but do add only trusted individuals since you’ll be responsible for any charges they make. An authorized user can help you hit the spending threshold for the welcome bonus faster, too. Plus, sharing the perks can make it easier to justify keeping the card year after year (“Hey, we both get lounge access and each anniversary we collectively get 20k miles, etc.”).

• Take Advantage of Travel Protections: Always use your Venture X to book travel (flights, hotels, car rentals) when you want the insurance coverage it provides. For example, if you book a flight with the card, you have coverage for delays or cancellations. If you rent a car with the card and decline the rental company’s collision damage waiver, you’re covered for damage/theft (and you’ll save money by not buying their insurance). These protections can literally save you hundreds or thousands in a pinch. It’s an often underappreciated aspect of premium cards – but to benefit, you must pay with the card. So, avoid the temptation to use say, a debit card or another card for travel spending; the Venture X’s safety net is very valuable. Keep your card’s benefit guide handy (or bookmark it) so you know the claim procedures if something goes awry on a trip.

• Monitor for Partner Transfer Promotions: Capital One occasionally offers bonuses like “Transfer to XYZ Airline and get 20% extra miles.” If you’re planning a transfer, such promotions can sweeten the deal. These are usually time-limited, but savvy travelers keep an eye on the Capital One rewards news or blogs that report these. Similarly, Capital One is expanding its travel offerings (like new lounges, new partners) – staying informed can help you take advantage of new perks as they roll out.

• Combine Points if You Have Other Capital One Cards: If you or your spouse have other Capital One rewards cards (like the regular Venture, VentureOne, Spark Miles business card, etc.), you can pool miles together or transfer miles between accounts. This can be useful to reach a redemption threshold. For instance, if you have 20k miles on another card and 60k on Venture X, you can combine to 80k in one place to book a bigger trip. Capital One makes it relatively easy to move rewards between cards online.

• Plan Your Applications for Maximum Bonus: This is more of a one-time strategy, but if you’re reading this review and haven’t applied yet, time your application when you have a big expense coming up (to help hit the $4k spend in 3 months for the bonus) or watch to see if Capital One ups the bonus at any point. The standard 75k offer is excellent, but if it ever goes higher (the Venture X launched with a 100k bonus in 2021 for a limited time), that could be an even sweeter deal.

By following these strategies, you’ll not only rack up miles faster but also extract the full value of the card’s perks. The Venture X is built to reward active use – the more you travel (and even spend day-to-day), the more it gives back.

Learn more about maximizing rewards.

Should You Get the Capital One Venture X?

After reviewing all these features, you might be wondering if the Venture X is the right card for you. Here’s a quick guide on who will benefit most from this card, and who might want to consider other options:

Ideal Candidates for the Venture X:

• Frequent Travelers Seeking Value: If you travel at least a few times a year – especially by air – and can utilize airport lounges and credits, the Venture X is a fantastic value. It’s designed for folks who want a premium travel experience (lounge access, peace of mind with insurance, high rewards) without paying an ultra-premium price. For road warriors and regular flyers, the convenience and comfort perks are game-changers.

• Couples or Families Who Travel: The ability to add family members as authorized users for free and share lounge access is huge. If you’re a family that flies for vacations or a couple that makes frequent trips, Venture X can cover everyone’s lounge visits and help accumulate a lot of miles via combined spending. You’d otherwise pay a lot more for these privileges with other cards.

• Points & Miles Enthusiasts: If you love the points hobby – finding sweet spots, transferring to airline miles for big award trips – you’ll enjoy Capital One’s growing ecosystem. Venture X gives you a flexible currency that complements other programs. It can be a great addition to a points enthusiast’s wallet (even if you already have cards from Chase or Amex, adding Capital One’s transfer partners could broaden your redemption opportunities).

• Those Upgrading from Mid-Tier Cards: Do you currently have a mid-range travel card like the Capital One Venture (the $95 version), Chase Sapphire Preferred, or Amex Gold and wonder if you should step up to a premium card? The Venture X is one of the most approachable premium cards out there. Its effective cost can be very low if you use the perks, making it a logical upgrade if you’re ready for lounge access and higher rewards. In fact, if you’re paying ~$95 for Venture or Sapphire Preferred and then maybe buying a lounge pass occasionally, you might find Venture X actually saves you money overall.

• Simplicity Seekers Who Still Want Perks: Some premium cards (looking at you, Amex Platinum) require a bit of homework to maximize. Venture X is relatively low-maintenance: use the credit, go to lounges, charge your travel to it, pay your bill. If you want a straightforward, all-in-one travel card that you can use for everyday spending too, Venture X fits that bill. It’s easy to understand yet still very rewarding.

Learn more about the Capital One Venture X.

Who Might Want to Pass or Consider Alternatives:

• Infrequent Travelers/Homebodies: If you rarely travel or maybe take one small trip a year, a premium travel card might not be worth it. Venture X’s value is heavily tied to travel perks. If you won’t take advantage of lounge visits or the travel credit, you’re better off with a no-annual-fee cash back card or a lower-tier travel card. For example, the regular Capital One Venture (no “X”) has a lower fee ($95) and still gives 2X miles on everything (but fewer perks). Or a general cash back card might suit you more if travel isn’t a big part of your spend.

• Loyalists to a Specific Airline/Hotel: Venture X is a general travel card. If you are, say, a die-hard Delta flyer or Marriott hotel loyalist who values free checked bags or guaranteed suite upgrades, a co-branded airline or hotel card might provide benefits this card doesn’t. For example, an airline card could waive baggage fees or give you priority boarding; Venture X deliberately doesn’t favor any single brand. Of course, you could carry both – one co-brand card for that specific perk and Venture X for everything else – but if you only want one card, you’ll have to decide if flexible rewards or brand-specific perks are more valuable to you.

• Those Who Can’t or Won’t Use the Portal: If you absolutely prefer booking travel directly through airlines/hotels all the time (maybe due to elite status benefits or personal preference), note that you’ll miss out on Venture X’s highest earning rates and the $300 credit redemption method. You’d still get 2X miles on those purchases and could use miles to wipe them via statement credit, so it’s not a dealbreaker. But if the idea of being nudged to use Capital One’s portal really turns you off, consider cards like the Sapphire Reserve which have more flexible travel credits and still reward outside-portal spend robustly.

• Luxury Maximizers with Big Budgets: On the flip side of the coin, if you are someone who wants every bell and whistle and you travel constantly in premium cabins/hotels, you might get more total value from an Amex Platinum or even holding multiple premium cards. For instance, some very frequent travelers hold both the Amex Platinum (for Centurion lounges, hotel status, Delta lounge access) and the Venture X or CSR for the broad points use and other perks. That’s a niche group, but if the $395 fee on Venture X is trivial in your budget and you could afford higher, you might just carry multiple cards to cover all bases. That said, Venture X can absolutely serve high-end travelers well; it just doesn’t come with things like first-class flight credits or ultra-luxury concierge events that, say, the Amex Centurion (Black Card) or even Platinum’s invites might have. But those come at vastly higher fees.

• Applicants with Less-Than-Excellent Credit: As mentioned, Venture X targets people with excellent credit. If you’re still building your credit score or have some marks on your report, consider starting with a more accessible card, then upgrading later. Capital One might approve some with good (not perfect) credit, but a $10,000+ credit line is common on these premium cards, which not everyone will qualify for.

In summary, you should get the Capital One Venture X if you plan to travel enough to enjoy at least some lounge visits, can utilize the annual $300 credit, and want a high-earning card for all your spending. It’s ideal for the modern traveler who wants flexibility and solid rewards without overcomplicating things. If that sounds like you, the Venture X is likely a great fit.

If that doesn’t sound like you, there are plenty of other cards – maybe the Venture X will be something to aspire to when your travel habits grow.

Learn more about the Capital One Venture X.

Final Verdict

The Capital One Venture X has undeniably shaken up the premium travel card landscape. It offers a compelling combination of rewards and perks that rival the long-established players, all while undercutting their annual fees. With easy-to-use benefits that can negate its cost, the Venture X essentially gives you champagne travel perks on a beer budget (or perhaps more aptly, on a wine budget).

What we love most: The simplicity and value. Unlimited 2X earning means you’re never making a “wrong” choice by using your card, and the ability to consistently get more than 1 cent per mile (through transfers or the portal boost on partners) means your rewards are always working hard for you. The lounge access – for you and your crew – makes travel days so much nicer. And the peace of mind from the travel protections encourages you to use those benefits and explore confidently.

A few caveats: You do need to engage with the Capital One ecosystem (their travel portal, their partners) to maximize returns, but that ask is fairly reasonable compared to the hoops some other cards make you jump through. Also, if you’re an absolute rewards maximizer, you might supplement Venture X with another card for specific categories (like dining or groceries) – but even if you don’t, you’re doing just fine with 2X.

When comparing all the top options side by side, the Venture X emerges as one of the best travel credit cards for a broad range of travelers. It hits a sweet spot: premium perks and excellent rewards at a price point that can be essentially $0 after credits. It’s rare to be able to say a $395 card might actually save you money, but this one truly can if you take advantage of what it offers.

Final verdict: The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card is absolutely worth it for travelers seeking a top-tier experience without a top-tier fee. It brings together high earning power, flexible redemption, and luxury perks in one polished, user-friendly package. Whether you’re an avid adventurer or someone who aspires to travel more (and better), Venture X can be the trusted companion that elevates your journeys. In our editorial opinion, Capital One knocked it out of the park with Venture X – it’s a card that delivers on its promises and then some. If you’re in the market for a premium travel credit card, the Venture X deserves a prime spot on your shortlist, and quite likely, a prime spot in your wallet. Safe travels and happy earning!

Learn more about the Capital One Venture X.