Priority Pass vs Amex Centurion Lounge: Which Is Better? (2026)
Priority Pass vs Amex Centurion Lounges compared: quality, locations, who gets access, guest fees, and whether you need both. Updated for 2026.
Priority Pass vs Amex Centurion Lounge: Complete Comparison 2026
Priority Pass is a network of partner lounges. Amex Centurion Lounges are lounges that American Express runs itself. They are not rivals in the usual sense. Amex Platinum cardholders get both, so most people ask which one to use on a given trip.
Quick Verdict
Centurion Lounges are usually better: bigger food menus, better bars, more space. But there are far fewer of them, mostly in major US airports. Priority Pass has far wider coverage, with a more uneven quality.
Choose Priority Pass if:
Wide coverage, quality varies by lounge.
- You travel outside the big US hubs
- You want a lounge at nearly every airport you use
- You hold a card that includes Priority Pass Select
Choose Centurion Lounge if:
Amex's own premium lounges.
- You hold an Amex Platinum, Business Platinum, or Centurion card
- You connect through a city that has one
- Food and drink quality matter most
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Priority Pass | Amex Centurion Lounge |
|---|---|---|
| What it is | Independent network of partner lounges | Lounges owned and run by American Express |
| Number of locations | 1,300+ lounges | About 30 or more, mostly US airports |
| Who gets in | Anyone with a membership or an included card | Amex Platinum, Business Platinum, and Centurion cardholders |
| Guest fee | Varies by tier and card | About $50 per adult on Platinum cards, free after a high annual spend |
| Food and drink | Varies a lot, from snacks to full buffets | Chef-led menus and full bars |
| Crowding | Varies, some small lounges fill up | Can have queues at busy hubs |
Figures are approximate and were last reviewed in October 2026. Prices, lounge counts and card benefits change often. Confirm on the provider's site before you buy.
Quality
Centurion Lounges are built to be a reason to hold the card. They usually have better food, better cocktails, and more seating than the average Priority Pass lounge.
Priority Pass quality depends on the lounge. Some are excellent, some are a small room with packaged snacks. Our lounge pages include ratings and amenities so you can see which is which.
Coverage
Priority Pass wins on coverage by a wide margin. Centurion Lounges are in a limited list of major airports, mostly in the US, with a few abroad. Priority Pass lounges are at many more airports than Centurion Lounges.
Access Rules
Centurion Lounge access is limited to certain Amex cards. Guests normally cost extra unless you reach a high annual spending threshold. Priority Pass rules depend on whether you bought it or got it from a card.
Amex Platinum holders must enroll in Priority Pass Select before they can use it. Terms change, so check American Express before you travel.
Should You Use Both?
If you hold an Amex Platinum, yes. Use a Centurion Lounge where one exists, and Priority Pass everywhere else. If you do not hold an eligible Amex card, you cannot use Centurion Lounges, and Priority Pass or a day pass is your option.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Amex Platinum include Priority Pass?
Yes. The Amex Platinum Card includes Priority Pass Select, but you must enroll first. Terms and visit limits can change, so check American Express.
Is a Centurion Lounge better than a Priority Pass lounge?
In most cases, yes. Centurion Lounges are larger and have better food and drinks. They are also fewer and can get crowded.
Can I get into a Centurion Lounge with Priority Pass?
No. Centurion Lounges are open only to eligible American Express cardholders, not Priority Pass members.