American Express Gold Rewards Card Review (Canada)

A flexible mid-tier Amex with a strong welcome bonus and Aeroplan transfer partners.

Updated June 15, 2026 · 4 min read · By Loyalty Concierge Editorial

AMEX · AMEX

American Express Gold Rewards Card

Annual fee $250 · FX 2.5%

Best for: Balanced points earners, Aeroplan transfers

Verdict

Solid for balanced points earners who want simplicity plus Aeroplan flexibility.

Who should get this card

  • • Balanced earners
  • • Anyone who transfers to Aeroplan

Who should avoid it

  • • Grocery-heavy households (Cobalt earns more)

Pros & cons

Pros

  • +Strong welcome bonus
  • +Flexible points

Cons

  • −Weaker earn than Cobalt
  • −$250 fee

Earn rates

  • 2x MR — Grocery, gas, travel, dining
  • 1x MR — Everything else

Alternatives to consider

AMEX · AMEX

American Express Cobalt Card

Annual fee $192 · FX 2.5%

Best for: Foodies, Groceries and dining

View card details →
AMEX · AMEX

American Express Platinum Card

Annual fee $799 · FX 2.5%

Best for: Frequent travellers, Lounge access

SCOTIA · VISA

Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite

Annual fee $150 · FX 0%

Best for: No-FX travellers, Lounge on a budget

Related resources