Delta SkyMiles® Reserve Business American Express Card vs The New United℠ Explorer Card

This comparison aims to help users decide between the Delta SkyMiles® Reserve Business American Express Card and The New United℠ Explorer Card. By examining their features, rewards, and benefits, you can make an informed decision based on your travel preferences and financial goals.

Card Overviews

Delta SkyMiles® Reserve Business American Express Card

• Annual Fee: $650
• Target Audience: Frequent Delta flyers and business travelers seeking premium benefits and rewards.

The New United℠ Explorer Card

• Annual Fee: $0 Intro Annual fee for the First Year, then $150
• Target Audience: Casual United flyers and travelers looking for a low-cost entry into airline rewards.

Detailed Feature Comparison

Rewards Highlights

Delta SkyMiles® Reserve Business American Express Card

• Earn 3 miles per dollar on eligible Delta 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® Reserve Business American Express Card

• Pros:
• Comprehensive travel benefits for frequent Delta flyers.
• Generous welcome bonus and earning potential on Delta purchases.
• Access to Delta Sky Club and The Centurion Lounge.
• Companion Certificate benefits.
• No foreign transaction fees.
• Exceptional travel credits and perks.

• Cons:
• High annual fee.
• May be less appealing for infrequent Delta travelers.

The New United℠ Explorer Card

• Pros:
• Low introductory fee and reasonable annual fee thereafter.
• Solid rewards structure for dining and travel.
• Free first checked bag and priority boarding.
• Global Entry or TSA PreCheck fee credit.
• Access to United Club with anniversary passes.

• Cons:
• Fewer premium benefits compared to Delta card.
• Lower earning potential on non-United purchases.

Who Should Consider Which Card?

• Delta SkyMiles® Reserve Business American Express Card: Ideal for frequent Delta flyers who value premium perks, extensive lounge access, and can justify the higher annual fee through savings and rewards.
• The New United℠ Explorer Card: Best for casual United travelers who want a low-cost entry into airline rewards and appreciate benefits like free checked bags and priority boarding without a high annual fee.

Conclusion

When deciding between the Delta SkyMiles® Reserve Business American Express Card and The New United℠ Explorer Card, consider your travel preferences, spending habits, and the types of rewards you value most. Each card offers unique benefits that cater to different types of travelers, so choose the one that aligns best with your financial goals and lifestyle.

“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.”