Trust Ratings Compared: APMEX vs. Money Metals
Money Metals Exchange is our winner. It consistently earns stronger customer ratings on platforms like Trustpilot and Consumer Affairs, while APMEX’s ratings are generally below average.
APMEX has an A+ BBB rating but suffers from low scores on Trustpilot (1.7) and Consumer Affairs (2.8), citing service delays and communication issues.
Platform | Rating |
|---|---|
Trustpilot
| 1.7 (7,966 reviews) |
Better Business Bureau (BBB) | A+ | Accredited Since 2004 |
Consumer Affairs | 2.8 (290 reviews) |
In contrast, Money Metals Exchange enjoys a Trustpilot rating of 3.3 and a strong 4.7 on Consumer Affairs, with reviews often praising its professionalism and reliability.
Platform | Rating |
|---|---|
Trustpilot
| 3.3 (125 reviews) |
Better Business Bureau (BBB) | A+ | Accredited Since 2011 | 4.4 (143 reviews) |
Consumer Affairs | 4.7 (168 reviews) |
While neither is flawless, Money Metals consistently earns higher marks, making it the more trusted option from a customer satisfaction standpoint.
Where to Buy Gold & Silver: APMEX vs. Money Metals
APMEX is our winner for direct purchases due to its extensive product variety, advanced tools like AutoInvest, and added convenience features such as QuickShip® and the Bullion Card.
Where they’re both strong:
Product Range: Both offer a wide selection of gold, silver, platinum, and palladium coins, bars, and rounds.
Free Shipping: Orders over $199 ship free and insured.
Payment Options: Both accept credit cards, wire transfers, checks, and cryptocurrency.
Buyback Programs: Each offers buyback services, even for metals not originally purchased from them.
Where APMEX stands out:
Product Depth: APMEX carries rare coins, jewelry, holiday gifts, junk silver, and global bullion from more mints.
Digital Metals & App: Through OneGold, investors can trade digital gold and silver. Their mobile app also supports real-time market tracking and buying.
Automation Tools: The AutoInvest feature and real-time price alerts allow hands-free investing.
Credit Card Perks: The Bullion Card offers up to 4% rewards in precious metals on purchases.
Fast Fulfillment: QuickShip® guarantees next-day order processing for eligible items.
Where Money Metals Stands Out:
Lower Fees for Crypto Payments: Charges only 2% for crypto purchases versus APMEX’s 4%.
Unique Products: Offers rhodium bars and novelty pieces like silver bullets.
Monthly Savings Plan: Ideal for consistent, smaller-scale investors.
Pricing Simplicity: Easy-to-understand costs and pricing structure.
While both are excellent for physical metals, APMEX offers more tools, features, and variety for those looking to build or expand a robust investment collection.
IRA Investing: Comparing APMEX and Money Metals
Money Metals Exchange is our winner for precious metal IRAs thanks to its stronger customer experience, segregated storage, and higher customer satisfaction ratings.
Where they’re both strong:
Custodian Partnerships: Both work with reputable self-directed IRA custodians and allow easy 401(k)/IRA rollovers.
IRA-Eligible Metals: Offer a wide range of IRS-approved coins and bars in gold, silver, platinum, and palladium.
Secure Storage: Each provides IRS-approved vault storage with full insurance.
Buyback Programs: Reliable programs for IRA asset liquidation.
Where Money Metals stands out:
In-House Depository: Metals can be stored directly in the Money Metals Depository with segregated accounts and Lloyd’s of London insurance.
IRA Process Simplicity: Clear steps for setup, rollover, and investment selection with transparent fee expectations.
Higher Customer Ratings: Investors consistently highlight ease-of-use and professionalism, which is crucial for long-term IRA management.
Monthly Savings Plan: Can complement IRA investing by allowing consistent accumulation outside of retirement accounts.
Where APMEX stands out:
Broader Custodian List: Offers more custodian options including GoldStar Trust and Equity Institutional.
OneGold Digital IRA Option: A digital metals investment platform that integrates with IRAs for easier liquidity.
Citadel Storage: Secure and fully insured through Brink’s, with free storage on qualifying orders.
Although APMEX offers more IRA customization, Money Metals Exchange provides a more streamlined, beginner-friendly IRA experience with clearer support and stronger user reviews.
Summary: Who Wins Where?
Overall, we recommend APMEX for investors who want a rich product lineup, advanced tools, and more ways to buy and store gold.
However, for IRA investors focused on ease, support, and satisfaction, Money Metals Exchange is our preferred choice.
Ratings Winner: Money Metals Exchange — more consistent and favorable reviews.
Best for Direct Purchase: APMEX — unmatched product variety, automation tools, and investor features.
Best for IRA: Money Metals Exchange — better customer service, simpler setup, and secure in-house storage.
