Sapphire reserve gives you at least $1,500 up front if you spend $4k in first 3 months, and you get at least 4.5% back on restaurant and travel for a card that costs $130 per year assuming you use travel credit and global entry.
For many people traveling and eating out, the 4.5% will easily cover the $130 expense and so you easily make up the yearly fee.
There are several $0/year cards that give you back 2% on every purchase, so in comparison Saphire card gives you 2.5% on travel/restaurants and -0.5% on everything else.
For many people traveling and eating out, the 4.5% will easily cover the $130 expense and so you easily make up the yearly fee.