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In the world of precious metals, choosing the right dealer can make all the difference. Today, we'll delve deep into two of the industry's giants: APMEX and Provident Metals.
Drawing from our experience and extensive research, we aim to provide you with a comprehensive comparison to help you make an informed decision.
Before we get started, investing your savings is a serious task. When it comes to adding precious metals to your portfolio, how do you know which companies to trust?
That is why we have researched every company in the industry and selected the very few with the highest customer service standards.
This way you can easily compare the best companies in the business, and choose one that fits your needs and investment goals.
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What is APMEX?
Known formally as the American Precious Metals Exchange, APMEX has established itself as a trusted pillar in the precious metals industry. The story of APMEX is one of passion and dedication.

It began with Scott Thomas, who, inspired by his grandfather's coin collection, embarked on a journey that would lead him to create one of the most recognized names in the industry.

What started as a humble venture on eBay soon outgrew its confines. Recognizing the potential and driven by ambition, the company made a strategic move to its dedicated platform, APMEX.com.
This transition wasn't just a change in platform; it marked the evolution of a small eBay store into one of the nation's largest online precious metals dealers. Today, APMEX stands as a testament to what vision, hard work, and customer-centric values can achieve.
Features
Precious Metals Offered
APMEX isn't just about quantity; it's about quality and diversity. They offer an extensive range of metals, from the ever-popular gold and silver to the more niche platinum and palladium. But it's not just about offering these metals; it's about ensuring that customers are always in the know.
Their website is designed to provide real-time price updates, ensuring that potential buyers always have the most current information at their fingertips. This commitment to transparency is a hallmark of their service.
Online Platform
We've navigated through countless websites, and based on our firsthand experience, APMEX's platform stands out. It's not just user-friendly; it's intuitive. Whether you're a seasoned investor or someone just starting out, the website guides you seamlessly.
The diverse product range, from sought-after gold and silver bullion to the rarest of numismatic coins, ensures that there's something for everyone. The platform's design, combined with its wealth of information, makes it more than just a purchasing site; it's a comprehensive resource for investors.
Customer Experience
Customer service isn't just about addressing issues; it's about preempting them. It's about ensuring that the customer's journey, from browsing to purchasing, is as smooth as possible. APMEX seems to understand this deeply.
With a staggering 210,000+ customer reviews and an enviable 4.9 overall satisfaction rating, it's evident that their commitment to their customers isn't just rhetoric. It's a promise they consistently deliver on.
Our investigation demonstrated that whether it's the quality of products, the ease of the purchasing process, or the responsiveness of their support team, APMEX consistently hits the mark.
Our Rating
Pros & Cons
Pros
Cons
What is Provident Metals?
When you think of a trusted partner in the precious metals market, Provident Metals often comes to mind. Known to many as the "People’s Bullion Dealer," Provident Metals stands out not just as a major player, but as a reliable ally for those diving into the world of precious metals.
The company's inception was driven by a clear purpose: to cater to the demands of customers who were on the lookout for a dependable partner for their precious metal endeavors. Over the years, Provident Metals has consistently demonstrated its commitment to quality and service, carving out a distinct space for itself in the industry.

What sets Provident Metals apart is its deep-rooted foundation built on trust. From the very beginning, the company was established in response to customers' requests for a precious metals dealer they could rely on. This customer-centric approach has been the cornerstone of their operations.
Their unwavering dedication to offering top-notch products, coupled with an unparalleled customer service experience, has positioned them as a go-to destination for both sovereign and domestic bullion from across the globe.
Features
Product Range
Provident Metals doesn't just offer a selection; they offer a diverse range. While they have the staples like gold and silver, their catalog extends to other precious metals, ensuring that investors have a broad spectrum of options.
Highlighted products such as the 10 oz Silver Incuse Bar and the Canadian Maple Leaf 1 oz Gold Coin are just the tip of the iceberg. Delving deeper into their offerings, you'll find a myriad of choices tailored to both seasoned investors and newcomers alike.
Online Presence
Navigating the Provident Metals website is a breeze. It's evident that a lot of thought has gone into its design and functionality. Clear categorizations ensure that even someone new to the world of precious metals can find their way with ease.
Real-time price updates are another feature we appreciate, ensuring that investors have the most current information at their fingertips. This transparency is crucial in making informed decisions.
Customer Feedback
A company can sing its own praises, but the true testament to its quality and service comes from its customers. Provident Metals' website is peppered with positive testimonials from satisfied clients. These reviews shed light on the company's dedication to excellence.
Comments like "This was the first time that I have purchased silver through the mail. I was a little apprehensive, but it worked out great" and "Provident is the best place to buy precious metals" are a testament to the trust and reliability that Provident Metals has fostered among its clientele.
Our Rating
Pros & Cons
Pros
Cons
Storage Options
When you invest in precious metals, ensuring their safety is paramount. Both APMEX and Provident Metals recognize this and offer secure storage options for your purchased metals.
APMEX has a detailed system in place, providing its customers with state-of-the-art storage facilities. These facilities are not just about keeping your metals safe from theft but also from environmental factors that could degrade their quality.
They employ advanced security measures, including 24/7 surveillance and stringent access controls. Additionally, the costs associated with these storage services are transparent, ensuring you know exactly what you're paying for.

On the other hand, Provident Metals also emphasizes the security of your investments. While they might not advertise their storage details as prominently as APMEX, it doesn't mean they take it any less seriously.
If you're considering storing your metals with Provident, we recommend reaching out to their customer service for detailed information. They can provide insights into their storage facilities, security measures, and any associated costs. Remember, the safety of your investment is as crucial as the investment itself.
Return Policy
Returns can be a tricky business, especially when dealing with precious metals. Both APMEX and Provident Metals have established return policies, but they come with their nuances.
APMEX has a clear-cut process for returns, ensuring that if you're not satisfied with your purchase, there's a system in place to address your concerns. However, it's essential to be aware of any restocking fees or conditions that might apply. For instance, certain products might be exempt from returns, or there might be a specific window within which returns are accepted.
Provident Metals, similarly, values customer satisfaction and has provisions for returns. But, as with any policy, the devil is in the details. Before making a purchase, it's wise to familiarize yourself with their return conditions.
This includes understanding any associated fees, the condition the product must be in for a successful return, and the timeframe within which a return request should be initiated. Our findings show that being proactive and understanding these policies can save a lot of potential future hassle.
Payment Options
APMEX offers a variety of payment methods, from traditional credit cards and bank transfers to modern solutions like cryptocurrencies.
This flexibility ensures that regardless of your preferred payment method, there's an option available for you. Additionally, their platform employs advanced encryption technologies, ensuring that your transaction details remain confidential and secure.
Provident Metals is no slouch either when it comes to payment options. They too support a range of methods, ensuring their customers have the freedom to choose. And just like APMEX, Provident Metals prioritizes transaction security.
Through our practical knowledge and interactions with both platforms, we can vouch for the security measures they have in place. Whether you're making a small purchase or investing a significant amount, you can do so with confidence, knowing your financial details are in safe hands.
Fees to Look Out For
Both APMEX and Provident Metals are upfront about their pricing, but like many dealers in the industry, there might be additional costs. For instance, some companies might charge transaction fees every time a purchase or sale is made.
Additionally, if you choose to store your metals in a depository, you could be looking at annual fees ranging from 0.5% to 1% of the stored metal's value. It's always a good idea to ask about any potential fees before making a transaction, so you're not caught off guard.
Customer Service
Customer service can make or break your experience with a company. APMEX's vast number of positive reviews speaks volumes about their commitment to their customers. They've built a reputation for addressing concerns promptly and ensuring that transactions are smooth.
On the other hand, Provident Metals, with its "People’s Bullion Dealer" tagline, showcases its dedication to its clientele. They've positioned themselves as a company that's approachable and trustworthy, ensuring that customers feel valued and heard.
Safety and Trustworthiness
Both APMEX and Provident Metals have invested in top-notch security measures to safeguard transactions and customer data. Digital encryption, secure payment gateways, and stringent data protection protocols are just a few ways these companies ensure that your investment and personal information are protected.
Their long-standing presence in the industry and consistent positive feedback from customers further cement their position as reliable and trustworthy dealers. When you're entrusting a company with your hard-earned money, it's reassuring to know they prioritize your safety.
Conclusion
Based on our firsthand experience and thorough research, both APMEX and Provident Metals stand out as reliable and trustworthy dealers in the precious metals industry.
Your choice between the two would depend on your specific needs, preferences, and investment goals. Remember, the best investment is an informed one.
Remember to read our list of the Top Gold Companies.
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