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Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card vs Southwest® Rapid Rewards® Performance Business Credit Card
This comparison aims to help you decide between the Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card and the Southwest® Rapid Rewards® Performance Business Credit Card. Both cards offer unique benefits tailored to frequent travelers, but understanding their features will guide you towards the best fit for your financial needs.
Card Overviews
Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card
The Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card is designed for loyal Delta Airlines customers, offering substantial rewards on Delta purchases and travel perks. With a no annual fee for the first year, it's an attractive option for those who travel frequently with Delta.
Southwest® Rapid Rewards® Performance Business Credit Card
The Southwest® Rapid Rewards® Performance Business Credit Card caters to business owners and frequent Southwest flyers. This card emphasizes earning points on Southwest purchases and offers additional bonuses for business-related expenses, making it ideal for those who travel for work.
Detailed Feature Comparison
| Feature | Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card | Southwest® Rapid Rewards® Performance Business Credit Card |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Fee | $0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $150 | $199 |
| Welcome Bonus | 50,000 Bonus Miles after spending $2,000 in first 6 months | 80,000 points after spending $5,000 in first 3 months |
| Rewards Structure | 2X Miles on Delta purchases, U.S. supermarkets, restaurants 1X Miles on all other purchases |
4X points on Southwest purchases 3X points on Rapid Rewards hotel and car rental partners 2X points on rideshare and select business expenses 1X points on all other purchases |
| Foreign Transaction Fee | No | No |
| Other Fees | None specified | None specified |
| Additional Benefits | Free first checked bag, priority boarding, Delta Flight Credit, discounts on in-flight purchases | 4 upgraded boardings per year, 9,000 bonus points on anniversary |
Rewards Highlights
Both cards offer excellent rewards for their respective programs:
- 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.
Pros and Cons
Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card
- Pros:
- No annual fee for the first year.
- Free checked bag and priority boarding on Delta flights.
- Generous welcome bonus.
- Cons:
- High annual fee after the first year.
- Limited to Delta and partner airlines for maximum benefits.
Southwest® Rapid Rewards® Performance Business Credit Card
- Pros:
- High rewards rate on Southwest purchases.
- Bonus points after the anniversary.
- Benefits tailored for business expenses.
- Cons:
- Higher annual fee compared to Delta card.
- Rewards primarily beneficial for Southwest travelers.
Who Should Consider Which Card?
- The Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card is ideal for frequent Delta travelers who value perks like free checked bags and priority boarding.
- The Southwest® Rapid Rewards® Performance Business Credit Card is better for business owners or those who frequently fly Southwest and want to maximize rewards on business-related expenses.
Conclusion
When choosing between the Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card and the Southwest® Rapid Rewards® Performance Business Credit Card, consider your travel habits and financial goals. Each card provides unique advantages that cater to different types of travelers, so assess which features align best with your lifestyle.