I have come to the conclusion that AFs are usually not worth it. A few of the cheaper AFs arent bad. Some would consider airline rewards worth it but unless you travel allot, and only if you ABSOLUTELY, POSITIVELY, HAVE TO HAVE, and insist on having access to an airport lounge then the $450 for AFs, or similar for other "upper tier" cards, just aren't practical for the average middle class (or lower) income earner. As far is simple non-airline rewards go......why pay high fees that basically just cut into what could have been more rewards. You end up having to spend that much more on the card to recover the cost of the AF. At least the Zync is only $25/year but I just see the value. Especially considering their are plenty of other cards with the same value for points as Amex's upper tier cards. So, why pay then? Maybe prestige? But why? It's just a card. Short of getting an amazed look from a cashier or waiter their isn't anything gained from prestige. I will be canceling my Amex Gold PR card before the annual fee kicks in and the Zync. Then I will start using my USAA Amex Rewards and a VISA (that I have yet to obtain) for purchases that I am unable to make with the Amex. I also have an old USAA MasterCard that I keep strictly for the age. I will eventually close it once my others have aged more.
Starting Score: EQ 779
I think the best AF cards AmEx has are the Delta ones
$99 companion flight once a year, 1 free checked bags for up to 9 people in your group, and 2 zone boarding on all flights
Well worth the $95/fee
I also got 25k miles when I signed up, which is good for $250 off a ticket.
