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® Reserve American Express Card vs Hilton Honors American Express Card
This comparison aims to help you decide between the Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card and the Hilton Honors American Express Card. Both cards offer unique benefits and rewards tailored to different travel preferences and spending habits.
Card Overviews
Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card
The Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card is designed for frequent Delta flyers who want to maximize their travel rewards. With premium benefits including lounge access and travel credits, this card caters to those who prioritize airline travel and luxurious experiences.
Hilton Honors American Express Card
The Hilton Honors American Express Card is perfect for travelers who often stay at Hilton properties. With no annual fee and rewards on hotel stays, restaurants, and everyday purchases, this card is ideal for anyone looking to earn hotel points quickly and easily.
Detailed Feature Comparison
| Feature | Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card | Hilton Honors American Express Card |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Fee | $650 | $0 |
| Welcome Bonus | Earn 70,000 Bonus Miles after you spend $5,000 in eligible purchases in your first 6 months. | Earn 80,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points after you spend $2,000 in purchases in your first 6 months. |
| Rewards Structure | Earn 3X Miles on Delta purchases, 1X Miles on other eligible purchases. | Earn 7X Points on Hilton purchases, 5X Points at U.S. restaurants, supermarkets, and gas stations, 3X Points on all other purchases. |
| Foreign Transaction Fee | No | No |
| Other Fees | Various travel-related fees apply. | No annual fee; other fees may apply. |
| Additional Benefits | Delta Sky Club access, Companion Certificate, ride share credits, upgrade priority. | Complimentary Hilton Honors™ Silver status, upgrade to Gold status with spending. |
Rewards Highlights
Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card
- Earn 3X Miles on Delta purchases.
- Earn 1X Miles on all other eligible purchases.
Hilton Honors American Express Card
- Earn 7X Hilton Honors Bonus Points for each dollar of eligible purchases charged on your Card directly with hotels and resorts within the Hilton portfolio.
- Earn 5X Points per dollar on purchases at U.S. restaurants, at U.S. supermarkets, and at U.S. gas stations.
- Earn 3X Points for all other eligible purchases on your Card.
Pros and Cons
Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card
- Pros:
- Extensive travel benefits and perks.
- Access to Delta Sky Club and The Centurion Lounge.
- Comprehensive travel insurance options.
- Strong earning potential on Delta purchases.
- Companion Certificate each year.
- Cons:
- High annual fee.
- Best suited for frequent Delta flyers.
Hilton Honors American Express Card
- Pros:
- No annual fee.
- High rewards rate on hotel stays.
- Complimentary Silver status with Hilton.
- Good earning potential for everyday purchases.
- Cons:
- Limited to Hilton properties for maximum rewards.
- Fewer premium travel benefits compared to Delta card.
Who Should Consider Which Card?
If you are a frequent Delta flyer who values lounge access and premium travel perks, the Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card may be the better choice. On the other hand, if you prefer flexible hotel rewards and want to avoid an annual fee, the Hilton Honors American Express Card could be more beneficial, especially for casual travelers or those who spend more on restaurants and everyday purchases.
Conclusion
When deciding between the two cards, consider your individual travel and spending habits. Analyze how often you fly with Delta or stay at Hilton properties, as well as the value you place on premium travel benefits versus everyday rewards. Choose the card that aligns best with your financial goals and lifestyle.