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Delta SkyMiles® Platinum Business American Express Card vs The New United℠ Explorer Card
This comparison aims to help users decide between the Delta SkyMiles® Platinum Business American Express Card and The New United℠ Explorer Card. Both cards offer unique benefits and rewards tailored for frequent travelers, but they cater to different airline loyalties and spending habits.
Card Overviews
Delta SkyMiles® Platinum Business American Express Card
This card is designed for business owners who frequently travel with Delta Airlines. It offers robust rewards on Delta purchases, travel-related expenses, and various perks that enhance the travel experience.
The New United℠ Explorer Card
This card is ideal for United Airlines enthusiasts and casual travelers alike. It provides a variety of rewards on United purchases, dining, and hotel stays, along with additional travel benefits such as priority boarding and free checked bags.
Detailed Feature Comparison
| Feature | Delta SkyMiles® Platinum Business American Express Card | The New United℠ Explorer Card |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Fee | $350 | $0 Intro Annual fee for the First Year, then $150 |
| Welcome Bonus | 70,000 Bonus Miles after $6,000 in purchases in the first 6 months | 80,000 bonus miles after spending $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months |
| Rewards Structure | 1.5X miles on eligible transit and U.S. shipping purchases, plus single eligible purchases of $5,000 or more | 2x miles on United® purchases, dining, and hotel stays |
| Foreign Transaction Fee | None | None |
| Other Fees | Annual fee applies | Annual fee applies after the first year |
| Additional Benefits | Companion Certificate, $120 Resy Credit, Zone 5 Priority Boarding, among others | Priority boarding, free first checked bag, $100 travel credit after $10,000 spend, among others |
Rewards Highlights
Delta SkyMiles® Platinum Business American Express Card
- Welcome Offer: Earn 70,000 Bonus Miles after spending $6,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.
- Earn 1.5X miles on eligible transit and U.S. shipping purchases, plus single eligible purchases of $5,000 or more. Terms and miles cap apply.
The New United℠ Explorer Card
- Debut Offer: Earn 80,000 bonus miles after spending $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.
Pros and Cons
Delta SkyMiles® Platinum Business American Express Card
- Pros:
- Strong rewards on Delta purchases and travel-related expenses.
- Annual Companion Certificate is a valuable perk.
- Multiple travel-related credits enhance value.
- Cons:
- High annual fee compared to other business cards.
- Welcome bonus requires a higher spending threshold.
The New United℠ Explorer Card
- Pros:
- Lower annual fee, especially in the first year.
- Generous rewards on dining and hotel stays.
- Free checked bag saves on travel costs.
- Cons:
- Lower welcome bonus compared to Delta card.
- Fewer travel-related perks than Delta card.
Who Should Consider Which Card?
Users who frequently fly with Delta Airlines and prioritize earning miles for Delta-related expenses should consider the Delta SkyMiles® Platinum Business American Express Card. Conversely, travelers who prefer United Airlines and are looking for a card with a lower annual fee and solid rewards on everyday spending might find The New United℠ Explorer Card more appealing.
Conclusion
When choosing between the Delta SkyMiles® Platinum Business American Express Card and The New United℠ Explorer Card, it's essential to consider your individual travel habits, preferred airlines, and the types of rewards you value most. Both cards offer excellent benefits tailored to their respective airline loyalty programs, so weigh the advantages against your spending patterns to make the best choice.