Is the new Chase Sapphire Reserve worth it — and what are some alternatives?

Core Points - The Chase Sapphire Reserve® has increased its annual fee from $550 to $795 while introducing new benefits that could provide over $2,700 in potential annual value [1][62] - The value derived from the card's benefits varies significantly based on individual usage and preferences, making it essential for potential cardholders to assess their own needs [33][56] Summary by Category Annual Fee and Value Proposition - The new annual fee for the Chase Sapphire Reserve is $795, with a claimed potential value of over $2,700 from various benefits [1][62] - The card offers over $1,200 in annual travel value and over $1,500 in annual lifestyle value, although actual value will depend on individual usage [8] Benefits Overview - Key benefits include a $300 annual travel credit, airport lounge access valued at over $450, and complimentary IHG One Rewards Platinum Elite status [9][12][13] - Additional benefits include up to $300 in dining credits, $500 in statement credits for The Edit hotel bookings, and various subscription services like Apple TV+ and Apple Music [20][21][22][16] Usage and Alignment - Cardholders are encouraged to evaluate the benefits against their travel and lifestyle preferences to determine if the card is worth the fee [7][33] - The card's value can be maximized by utilizing specific credits and benefits that align with personal spending habits [33][56] Comparison with Other Cards - The Chase Sapphire Reserve is compared to other premium cards like the Amex Platinum and Capital One Venture X, highlighting differences in benefits and annual fees [48][51] - The Sapphire Reserve's benefits may not be suitable for everyone, particularly those who prefer simpler cards with lower fees [39][40] Conclusion on Worthiness - The card can offset its $795 annual fee through various credits, but this depends on the cardholder's ability to utilize the benefits effectively [33][56] - Frequent travelers are likely to find more value in the card due to its travel-related perks [57]