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Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card vs The New United℠ Explorer Card
This comparison aims to assist users in deciding between the Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card and The New United℠ Explorer Card. Both cards offer unique benefits tailored to frequent travelers, but their features and rewards structures vary significantly.
Card Overviews
Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card
The Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card is designed for Delta Airlines enthusiasts who want to earn miles on their purchases and enjoy benefits like free checked bags and priority boarding. With a $0 introductory annual fee for the first year, this card provides a great entry point for those looking to maximize their travel rewards.
The New United℠ Explorer Card
The New United℠ Explorer Card is geared towards United Airlines travelers. It offers a competitive rewards structure along with perks such as priority boarding and travel credits, making it an attractive choice for frequent United flyers looking to enhance their travel experience.
Detailed Feature Comparison
| Feature | Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card | The New United℠ Explorer Card |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Fee | $0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $150. | $0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $150. |
| Welcome Bonus | Earn 50,000 Bonus Miles after you spend $2,000 in eligible purchases in your first 6 months. | Earn 80,000 bonus miles after you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months. |
| Rewards Structure | 2X Miles on Delta purchases, U.S. supermarkets, and restaurants; 1X Mile on all other purchases. | 2X Miles on United purchases, dining, and hotel stays; 1X Mile on all other purchases. |
| Foreign Transaction Fee | None | None |
| Other Fees | Various fees may apply. | Various fees may apply. |
| Additional Benefits | Free first checked bag, priority boarding, $200 Delta Flight Credit, and 15% off award travel. | Free first checked bag, priority boarding, United Club access with anniversary passes, and travel credits. |
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.
The New United℠ Explorer Card
- Debut Offer: Earn 80,000 bonus miles after you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months.
- 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® Gold American Express Card
- Pros:
- Free first checked bag on Delta flights.
- Access to Delta SkyMiles rewards program.
- 15% off award travel bookings.
- No foreign transaction fees.
- Cons:
- Limited to Delta Airlines benefits.
- Annual fee applies after the first year.
The New United℠ Explorer Card
- Pros:
- Free first checked bag on United flights.
- Priority boarding and United Club access with anniversary passes.
- Up to $120 Global Entry or TSA PreCheck fee credit.
- No foreign transaction fees.
- Cons:
- Annual fee applies after the first year.
- Limited to United Airlines benefits.
Who Should Consider Which Card?
The Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card is ideal for travelers who frequently fly with Delta Airlines and prefer earning miles on everyday purchases, especially at supermarkets and restaurants. It’s also a great choice for those who can take advantage of its travel benefits like free checked bags and discounts on award travel.
The New United℠ Explorer Card suits travelers who are loyal to United Airlines and want a card that provides travel perks such as priority boarding and access to United Club lounges. This card is beneficial for those who often fly with United and want to maximize their rewards on dining and hotel stays.
Conclusion
In summary, both the Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card and New United℠ Explorer Card offer valuable benefits for frequent travelers. Your choice should depend on your airline preference, travel habits, and how you plan to utilize the rewards and benefits provided by each card. Consider your individual needs and spending patterns to make an informed decision.