Search Credit Card Offers
Terms apply to American Express benefits and offers. Enrollment may be required for select American Express benefits and offers. Visit americanexpress.com to learn more.
Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card vs United Gateway℠ Card
This comparison aims to assist you in deciding between the Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card and the United Gateway℠ Card. Both cards offer distinct benefits tailored to frequent travelers, but their features cater to different needs and preferences.
Card Overviews
Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card
The Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card is designed for travelers who frequently fly with Delta Airlines. It offers a variety of travel perks, including bonus miles on Delta purchases and other everyday spending, along with exclusive discounts and credits that enhance the travel experience.
United Gateway℠ Card
The United Gateway℠ Card is an excellent option for those who often fly with United Airlines or utilize local transit and gas stations. With no annual fee and a straightforward rewards structure, this card is ideal for casual travelers who want to earn miles without incurring additional costs.
Detailed Feature Comparison
| Feature | Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card | United Gateway℠ Card |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Fee | $0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $150 | $0 |
| Welcome Bonus | 50,000 Bonus Miles after spending $2,000 in first 6 months | 20,000 bonus miles after spending $1,000 in first 3 months |
| Rewards Structure | 2X Miles on Delta purchases, U.S. supermarkets, and restaurants; 1X on all other purchases | 2X miles on United purchases, gas stations, local transit; 1X on all other purchases |
| Foreign Transaction Fee | None | None |
| Other Fees | $200 Delta Flight Credit after spending $10,000 in a calendar year | 25% back on in-flight purchases of food, beverages, and Wi-Fi |
| Additional Benefits | First checked bag free, priority boarding, Delta Stays credit | No annual fee, member FDIC |
Rewards Highlights
Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card
- Earn 50,000 Bonus Miles after you spend $2,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.
- 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.
United Gateway℠ Card
- Earn 20,000 bonus miles after you spend $1,000 on purchases in the first 3 months your account is open.
- 2X miles on United® purchases, at gas stations, and on local transit and commuting.
- 1X mile on all other purchases.
Pros and Cons
Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card
- Pros:
- Generous welcome bonus of 50,000 miles
- Free checked bag on Delta flights
- 2X miles on Delta and restaurant purchases
- Additional travel credits and discounts
- Cons:
- $150 annual fee after the first year
- Higher spending requirement for bonus miles
United Gateway℠ Card
- Pros:
- No annual fee
- Simple rewards structure
- Bonus miles on gas and commuting
- In-flight purchase credits
- Cons:
- Lower welcome bonus compared to Delta card
- Limited premium travel benefits
Who Should Consider Which Card?
The Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card is best suited for those who frequently travel with Delta Airlines and can take advantage of the various travel perks and services it offers. If you value benefits like a free checked bag and Delta-specific discounts, this card is a great choice.
On the other hand, the United Gateway℠ Card is ideal for casual travelers or those who mostly fly with United Airlines and want a straightforward card with no annual fees. Its rewards structure is easy to understand, making it a great option for users who want to earn miles without the commitment of an annual fee.
Conclusion
Choosing between the Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card and the United Gateway℠ Card ultimately depends on your travel habits and preferences. Consider where you fly most often, your spending patterns, and the benefits that will be most valuable to you when making your decision.