A Metal Card is a premium bank card made from metal instead of plastic. You get the same everyday payments as a standard card, plus a more durable build and extra perks that come with higher-tier plans. It is a simple way to upgrade how you pay without changing how you bank.

What is a Metal Card?

A Metal Card is a physical payment card issued by your bank, usually on a premium or top-tier plan. The card body is metal (often stainless steel), which makes it sturdier than a typical plastic card and gives it a distinct look and feel. Behind the metal, it works like any other Mastercard: chip, contactless tap, and online use all behave the same way.

Metal Cards are not a separate payment method. They connect to your bank account or a linked Money Pocket, and every purchase still draws from money you already have (or from your chosen funding source on your plan). The difference is the plan level, the materials, and the extra benefits your bank bundles with the card.

Metal Card vs. standard plastic cardBoth card types use the same networks and security rules. The practical differences are durability, design, and what your plan includes.

Build: Metal Cards resist bending and wear better than plastic over years of wallet use.

Perks: Premium plans often pair a Metal Card with higher ATM limits, travel perks, or priority support. Check your plan for what applies to you.

Cost: Metal Cards are typically tied to paid plans. A standard plastic debit card is usually included on entry-level plans at no extra card fee.

If you mainly need reliable everyday spending, a plastic card is enough. If you want a premium card experience and the perks that match your lifestyle, a Metal Card can be worth it.

Using a Metal Card with bunq

On eligible bunq plans, you can order a Metal Card through the app and link it to a Money Pocket so you control how much is available to spend. You get Instant Notifications on every payment, can freeze the card in one tap, and use the same contactless payment flow as any other bunq card. For travel, pair it with zero-fx on supported currencies so foreign spending stays predictable.

Explore all card options on bunq Cards or see how cards fit your everyday banking on Payments.

Common questions

Does a Metal Card work at ATMs and online?Yes. It is still a Mastercard. You can withdraw cash at ATMs (subject to your plan limits), pay in stores, and shop online. ATM withdrawals and deposits follow the same rules as your other bunq cards.

Is a Metal Card a credit card?

Not necessarily. Banks offer metal versions of both debit and credit products. With bunq, your card type depends on your plan and which card you order. Many users carry a Metal Card linked to their balance, similar to a Credit Card or debit card funded from their account.

Will a Metal Card set off airport scanners?

Metal Cards can trigger manual checks at security gates more often than plastic cards. Keep the card handy when you travel; most airports are used to metal cards and only need a quick visual check.