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Delta SkyMiles® Blue American Express Card vs The New United℠ Explorer Card
This comparison aims to assist users in deciding between the Delta SkyMiles® Blue American Express Card and the The New United℠ Explorer Card. Both cards offer unique benefits and rewards tailored to different travel enthusiasts, making it essential to evaluate their features closely.
Card Overviews
Delta SkyMiles® Blue American Express Card
The Delta SkyMiles® Blue American Express Card is designed for travelers who frequently fly with Delta Airlines. With no annual fee, this card offers a straightforward rewards structure that benefits dining and Delta purchases. It is ideal for casual travelers who want to earn miles without incurring extra costs.
The New United℠ Explorer Card
The The New United℠ Explorer Card targets those who travel often with United Airlines. With a $0 introductory annual fee for the first year, followed by $150, this card provides comprehensive travel benefits, including priority boarding and free checked bags. It is suitable for frequent flyers looking to maximize rewards and perks.
Detailed Feature Comparison
| Feature | Delta SkyMiles® Blue American Express Card | The New United℠ Explorer Card |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Fee | $0 | $0 Intro Annual fee for the First Year, then $150 |
| Welcome Bonus | Earn 10,000 bonus miles after you spend $1,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months. | Earn 80,000 bonus miles after you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months your account is open. |
| Rewards Structure | 2X Miles per dollar at restaurants worldwide, plus takeout and delivery in the U.S.; 2X Miles per dollar spent on Delta purchases; 1X Mile on all other eligible purchases. | 2x miles on United® purchases, dining, and hotel stays when booked with the hotel; 1x mile on all other purchases. |
| Foreign Transaction Fee | No Foreign Transaction Fees | No Foreign Transaction Fees |
| Other Fees | None specified | $150 after the first year |
| Additional Benefits | Pay with Miles; 20% savings on eligible Delta in-flight purchases. | Free first checked bag; priority boarding; up to $120 Global Entry or TSA PreCheck fee credit; over $400 in partner credits each year. |
Rewards Highlights
Delta SkyMiles® Blue American Express Card
- Earn 2X Miles per dollar at restaurants worldwide, plus takeout and delivery in the U.S.
- Earn 2X Miles per dollar spent on Delta purchases.
- Earn 1X Mile on all other eligible purchases.
The New United℠ Explorer Card
- Debut Offer: Earn 80,000 bonus miles after you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months your account is open.
- 2x miles on United® purchases, dining, and hotel stays when booked with the hotel.
- 1x mile on all other purchases.
Pros and Cons
Delta SkyMiles® Blue American Express Card
- Pros:
- No annual fee.
- Strong rewards on dining and Delta purchases.
- Pay with Miles feature for flight discounts.
- 20% savings on in-flight purchases.
- Cons:
- Lower welcome bonus compared to competitor.
- Limited benefits compared to premium cards.
The New United℠ Explorer Card
- Pros:
- Strong welcome bonus.
- Multiple travel perks, including free checked bags and priority boarding.
- Introductory annual fee for the first year.
- Cons:
- $150 annual fee after the first year.
- Higher spending requirement for bonus miles.
Who Should Consider Which Card?
The Delta SkyMiles® Blue American Express Card is ideal for casual travelers who prioritize dining rewards and prefer a no-annual-fee card without extensive travel perks. This card is perfect for those who fly Delta occasionally and want to earn miles without added costs.
On the other hand, The New United℠ Explorer Card suits frequent United Airlines travelers looking for a card that offers robust travel benefits and rewards. With its various perks and introductory fee, it’s a great choice for those who travel regularly and can take advantage of the card's extra features.
Conclusion
When choosing between the Delta SkyMiles® Blue American Express Card and The New United℠ Explorer Card, it's essential to consider your travel habits, spending patterns, and preference for rewards. Evaluate which features align best with your lifestyle to make an informed decision.