Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card vs Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card

This comparison aims to provide potential cardholders with a comprehensive overview of the Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card and the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card. By evaluating the key features, rewards, pros and cons, and who each card is best suited for, users can make an informed decision based on their travel preferences and financial goals.

Card Overviews

Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card

The Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card is designed for frequent Delta Airlines travelers. Its benefits focus on earning Delta SkyMiles, offering travel perks like free checked bags and priority boarding, making it a solid choice for those who fly Delta often.

Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card

The Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card caters to travelers who prefer Marriott hotels. With generous rewards on hotel stays and dining, along with exclusive perks like lounge access and free night awards, it is ideal for those who frequently stay at Marriott properties.

Detailed Feature Comparison

Rewards Highlights

Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card

• Earn 2X Miles on Delta purchases, at U.S. Supermarkets and at restaurants worldwide, including takeout and delivery in the U.S.
• Earn 1X Mile on all other eligible purchases.

Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card

• Earn 6X Marriott Bonvoy® points for each dollar of eligible purchases at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy®.
• 3X Marriott Bonvoy® points at restaurants worldwide and on flights booked directly with airlines.
• 2X Marriott Bonvoy® points on all other eligible purchases made on the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card.

Pros and Cons

Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card

• Pros:
  • Great for Delta flyers with travel perks
  • No foreign transaction fees
  • Introductory annual fee
• Cons:
  • High annual fee after the first year
  • Limited rewards outside Delta and supermarkets

Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card

• Pros:
  • Generous welcome bonus and rewards structure
  • Multiple travel perks including free night awards
  • Dining credits and lounge access
• Cons:
  • High annual fee
  • More beneficial for frequent Marriott guests

Who Should Consider Which Card?

• Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card: Best for travelers who frequently fly with Delta Airlines and want to maximize their SkyMiles while enjoying travel benefits like free checked bags and priority boarding.
• Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card: Ideal for those who frequently stay at Marriott hotels, enjoy dining out, and want access to luxury travel perks, including free night awards and airport lounge access.

Conclusion

Choosing between the Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card and the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card ultimately depends on your travel preferences and spending habits. Consider how often you fly with Delta or stay at Marriott hotels, as well as your willingness to pay the annual fees associated with each card. Aligning the card's benefits with your travel lifestyle will help you make the best choice.

“Disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author's alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.”