Metal credit cards: status symbol or inconvenience

There's a growing trend among credit card users to opt for metal cards, which are often seen as status symbols due to their sleek and heavy design. The Chase Sapphire Reserve, launched in 2016, was a pioneer in this category, with its popularity even leading to a temporary shortage of metal. However, despite their appeal, metal credit cards come with certain drawbacks that potential users should consider.

One issue is that metal cards are not universally accepted. While it's rare, some older card readers and parking machines may not accommodate them. "Your card is only useful if you can actually use it," the report notes.

Another concern is that metal cards can set off metal detectors at airports. For those who regularly travel and enjoy the convenience of Global Entry or TSA PreCheck, this could be an inconvenience. Carrying a metal card may require changes to one's security process at airports.