Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card vs Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card

This comparison aims to help you decide between the Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card and the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card. Both cards come with a $650 annual fee and offer unique benefits 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. It offers perks like lounge access, bonus miles on Delta purchases, and travel-related credits, making it a suitable choice for those who travel often with Delta Airlines.

Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card

The Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card targets avid travelers who prefer Marriott hotels. It provides substantial rewards on hotel stays, dining credits, and elite status benefits, making it ideal for those who frequently stay at Marriott properties.

Detailed Feature Comparison

Rewards Highlights

Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card Rewards

• Earn 3X Miles on Delta purchases.
• Earn 1X Miles on all other eligible purchases.

Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card Rewards

• Earn 6X Marriott Bonvoy® points for each dollar of eligible purchases at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy®.
• 3X Marriott Bonvoy® points at restaurants worldwide and on flights booked directly with airlines.
• 2X Marriott Bonvoy® points on all other eligible purchases made on the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card.

Pros and Cons

Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card

• Pros:
  • Generous bonus miles for Delta purchases
  • Access to Delta Sky Club and Centurion Lounge
  • Companion Certificate for additional savings
• Cons:
  • High annual fee
  • Rewards primarily focused on Delta Airlines

Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card

• Pros:
  • Substantial bonus points for hotel stays
  • Annual Free Night Award
  • Dining and travel credits enhance value
• Cons:
  • High annual fee
  • Best suited for Marriott loyalists

Who Should Consider Which Card?

• Consider the Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card if:
  • You frequently fly with Delta Airlines.
  • You value lounge access and travel perks specific to Delta.
  • You want to earn miles for flights and travel-related expenses.
• Consider the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card if:
  • You often stay at Marriott hotels.
  • You enjoy dining out and want to earn points on restaurant purchases.
  • You prefer hotel loyalty benefits and free nights.

Conclusion

Both the Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card and the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card come with valuable benefits tailored toward different travel preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your individual needs, travel habits, and the types of rewards you value most.

“Disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author's alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.”