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Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card vs The New United℠ Explorer Card
This comparison aims to help users decide between the Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card and The New United℠ Explorer Card, focusing on their key features, benefits, and suitability based on individual spending habits and travel preferences.
Card Overviews
Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card
The Delta SkyMiles® Platinum 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, a companion certificate, and travel credits.
The New United℠ Explorer Card
The New United℠ Explorer Card caters to United Airlines enthusiasts, providing benefits like bonus miles on United purchases, free checked bags, and access to United Club lounges. It’s ideal for users looking to maximize their travel rewards with United.
Detailed Feature Comparison
| Feature | Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card | The New United℠ Explorer Card |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Fee | $350 | $0 Intro Annual fee for the First Year, then $150 |
| Welcome Bonus | Earn 60,000 Bonus Miles after spending $3,000 in the first 6 months | Earn 80,000 bonus miles after spending $3,000 in the first 3 months |
| Rewards Structure | 3X Miles on Delta purchases, 2X at restaurants and U.S. supermarkets, 1X on all other purchases | 2X miles on United purchases, dining, and hotel stays, 1X on all other purchases |
| Foreign Transaction Fee | None | None |
| Other Fees | $120 Resy Credit, $120 Rideshare Credit | Up to $120 Global Entry, TSA PreCheck® or NEXUS fee credit |
| Additional Benefits | Companion Certificate, Free first checked bag, Priority boarding | Free first checked bag, Priority boarding, 2 one-time United Club passes |
Rewards Highlights
Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card
- Earn 3X Miles on Delta purchases and purchases made directly with hotels.
- Earn 2X Miles at restaurants worldwide including takeout and delivery in the U.S., and at U.S. supermarkets.
- Earn 1X Miles 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® Platinum American Express Card
- Pros:
- Generous welcome bonus.
- Companion certificate each year.
- Free first checked bag, saving on travel costs.
- Cons:
- Higher annual fee compared to other cards.
- Limited to Delta Airlines for maximum benefits.
The New United℠ Explorer Card
- Pros:
- $0 intro annual fee for the first year.
- Free checked bag and priority boarding.
- Access to United Club with anniversary passes.
- Cons:
- Lower rewards rate on non-United purchases.
- Annual fee applies after the first year.
Who Should Consider Which Card?
The Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card is ideal for frequent Delta travelers looking for perks like companion tickets and priority boarding. It suits users who can maximize the benefits of Delta’s network.
On the other hand, The New United℠ Explorer Card is better for those who prefer United Airlines, particularly first-time cardholders who can take advantage of the introductory fee waiver and bonus miles.
Conclusion
Ultimately, choosing between the Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card and The New United℠ Explorer Card should revolve around your individual travel habits, preferences, and spending goals. Consider which airline you use most frequently and whether the card's benefits align with your travel lifestyle.