
If you're a traveler looking for a credit card that rewards you for your adventures, American Express SkyMiles credit cards are a great option.
These cards offer a range of benefits that can help you earn points faster and redeem them for travel rewards. With the potential to earn up to 60,000 bonus miles, these cards can be a game-changer for frequent flyers.
One of the standout features of American Express SkyMiles credit cards is their flexible redemption options. This means you can redeem your points for flights, hotel stays, or even upgrades, giving you more control over how you use your rewards.
Pros and Cons
The American Express Skymiles credit cards come with some notable pros and cons. The annual fee is waived the first year, which is a nice perk.
However, the ongoing annual fee might only make sense if you use the card as your primary card, as it's the only scenario where the fee might be justified.
Pros

Earning Amex Membership Rewards points can be a great way to accumulate Delta SkyMiles, as they can be transferred at a 1:1 ratio.
The American Express Green Card offers 3x points on dining and travel, making it a good option for those who frequently eat out or travel.
The American Express Gold Card offers 4x points at restaurants and U.S. supermarkets, and 3x points on flights booked directly with airlines or at amextravel.com.
No foreign transaction fees are charged on the Delta Platinum Amex, making it a good choice for international travel.
You can use the Amex Platinum card to earn points at a faster rate, as the author of the article has done for about 6 years.
Earning Elite Status
Having the Delta Platinum Amex card can give you a head start on earning SkyMiles Medallion elite status.
You receive 2,500 Medallion Qualifying Dollars (MQDs) annually just for having the card.
For every $20 in purchases made on the card in a calendar year, you earn one MQD.
If you're serious about earning status with Delta, consider getting the even more premium card.
This card can still help you earn status, even if it's not the top-tier option.
Annual Fee Is Still Expensive
The annual fee is still pretty expensive, coming in at $350 for the Delta SkyMiles Platinum American Express Card. That's a lot of money for a card that doesn't offer many high-end perks.
You'll want to take advantage of the companion certificate each year to help recoup that value, but it's still a significant expense.
Rewards Program
The rewards program of the Delta SkyMiles credit cards is geared toward everyday use, with bonus rewards in categories like supermarket and restaurant purchases.
You'll earn two miles for every $1 spent on eligible purchases made directly with Delta, and two miles for every $1 spent on purchases at supermarkets in the U.S. and restaurants worldwide.
One mile per $1 is earned on all other purchases, which is still a decent rate for a credit card.
The Delta SkyMiles Gold American Express Card offers a $200 Delta flight credit when you make at least $10,000 in eligible purchases in a year, which can be used toward a Delta flight purchase.
This credit is worth enough to offset the card's annual fee, which is $0 introductory for the first year, then $150.
Welcome Bonus
The welcome bonus is a great way to get started with an American Express SkyMiles credit card.
You can earn a significant number of bonus miles with some of these cards, such as 80,000 bonus miles after spending $3,000 on purchases during the first 6 months following account opening with the Delta SkyMiles Gold American Express Card.
This bonus is worth about $805 when you redeem for qualifying flights, assuming you earn all of the bonus miles and Delta SkyMiles are worth approximately 1.61 cents each.
To qualify for a Delta SkyMiles American Express card, you'll likely need a good credit score, which would be a FICO score of 670 or higher.
However, your income, employment status, and history with American Express can also be taken into consideration.
You can earn a welcome bonus only once per lifetime per card product, so if you've had a Delta SkyMiles card in the past, you won't be eligible for the welcome bonus again.
But, having one card won't automatically exclude you from earning an intro bonus on a different Delta card.
It's essential to responsibly meet the card's bonus requirements, avoiding situations where you need to spend more than you otherwise would have just to earn the bonus miles.
Paying off the balance each month will also help you avoid interest charges that can easily wipe out any value you receive from your card's perks.
The Platinum Delta SkyMiles Card has a welcome offer of 60,000 bonus miles after spending $3,000 on purchases within the first six months, which is worth $660 to some valuers.
Airline Perks
The Platinum Delta Amex Card has some amazing perks that make it worth considering. You can earn Medallion elite status with Delta SkyMiles by putting your spending on the card.
One of the benefits of having this card is priority boarding. This is a huge advantage, especially if you're traveling with a large group.
You'll get priority boarding just for having the Delta Platinum Amex, which helps you maximize your odds of finding space for your carry-on and getting to your seat sooner.
Considerations
The Delta SkyMiles credit cards offer a range of benefits, but it's essential to consider your travel habits and needs before choosing the right card.
If you're a casual Delta flyer, you might not get the most value out of the Delta SkyMiles Platinum American Express Card. This card is better suited for frequent flyers who are loyal to Delta.
Consider your spending habits and whether you can maximize the MQDs (Medallion Qualification Dollars) that you can earn with the card. The card has solid perks, ranging from a companion certificate to priority boarding and savings on flight purchases.
Here are some alternative cards to consider:
- Delta SkyMiles Gold American Express Card: This card has a less expensive annual fee and offers perks like a free checked bag.
- Delta SkyMiles Reserve American Express Card: This card has a more expensive annual fee but offers better perks when flying.
- Platinum Card from American Express: This card is worth considering for people who want a more versatile travel card that offers rewards beyond travel.
Cons
The cons of considering a new investment strategy can be significant. The added complexity of managing multiple accounts can lead to increased administrative costs.
Higher fees are often associated with more complex investment strategies, which can eat into your returns. For example, a study found that investors who used a robo-advisor with a more complex strategy paid an average of 0.5% more in fees compared to those who used a simpler strategy.

Increased risk is another potential con of considering a new investment strategy. As seen in the article section on risk tolerance, some strategies may be more suitable for risk-averse investors, while others may be more appealing to those who are willing to take on more risk.
In some cases, the added complexity of a new investment strategy can lead to decreased transparency, making it more difficult to understand how your money is being invested. This lack of transparency can be a major concern for investors who value simplicity and clarity.
Is Worth It?
The Delta SkyMiles cards can be worth it, but it depends on your travel habits and spending patterns.
To get the most value out of these cards, you need to use them regularly, especially if you want to offset the annual fee. For example, to earn the $200 Delta flight credit, you need to spend at least $10,000 on eligible purchases in a calendar year.

The cards offer nice bonus miles on restaurant and U.S. supermarket purchases, which can be a big perk for many consumers.
However, if you don't make these cards your primary credit card, you might have to rely on the welcome bonus and airline perks like priority boarding, which might not be enough to justify the annual fee.
The Delta SkyMiles Platinum American Express Card is a good pick for frequent flyers who are loyal to Delta, offering free checked bags, priority boarding, and a generous companion certificate.
But, it's not the best card for casual Delta flyers, and it's also not a card you'd want to put much spending on unless you value the MQDs you can earn with it.
The annual fee might be waived the first year, but the ongoing fee might make sense only if you use it as a primary card.
One thing to consider is that the Delta SkyMiles Platinum American Express Card won't get you into Delta Sky Clubs, which is a disappointment for a card of its stature.
You need to weigh the pros and cons, such as the bonus miles on Delta purchases, at supermarkets in the U.S., and restaurants worldwide, against the lack of companion fare offer or complimentary lounge access.
Other Considerations
If you're considering the Delta SkyMiles Platinum American Express Card, you may also want to look into other travel cards that offer similar benefits.
The Delta SkyMiles Gold American Express Card is a less expensive option with an annual fee that's lower than the Platinum card, but it still offers a free checked bag.
Delta SkyMiles Reserve American Express Card has a more expensive annual fee, but it's a great choice for frequent flyers who want better perks.
The Platinum Card from American Express is another option worth considering, especially if you want a travel card that offers rewards beyond just flights.
Here are some key differences between these cards to keep in mind:
Member Reviews
The value of a credit card can be greatly affected by the airline's policies. Most users agree that the companion certificate is a significant perk that can cover the annual fee.
This card is solid for airline enthusiasts who fly frequently. Being able to upgrade with miles at a discount is a nice bonus, and the extra free bag is a great benefit.
However, Delta's recent changes have diminished the card's value. The airline now focuses on MQD, which makes it harder to earn status.
The American card is a better option for those who want to earn status easily. Its program allows users to hit status much faster than Delta's.
Consider Alternatives
If you're not sure the Delta SkyMiles Gold American Express Card is right for you, consider these alternatives.
The Delta SkyMiles Platinum American Express Card is a good option for those looking for a discount when traveling with others. It offers similar benefits to the Gold card, but with some added perks.
The Delta SkyMiles Reserve American Express Card is geared towards frequent travelers who want extra comforts. It's a great choice for those who fly often.
The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card is another option to consider. It offers strong rewards and a few perks when flying with any airline, not just Delta.
Here are some key differences between these alternatives and the Delta SkyMiles Gold American Express Card:
- Delta SkyMiles Platinum American Express Card: offers a discount for traveling with others
- Delta SkyMiles Reserve American Express Card: geared towards frequent travelers with extra comforts
- Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card: offers strong rewards and perks for flying with any airline
Features and Perks
The Delta SkyMiles credit cards from American Express come with some great features and perks. The Delta SkyMiles Gold American Express Card includes airport benefits like priority boarding and a free checked bag, which can make your trip more comfortable.
These perks can be especially valuable if you're a frequent flyer, as they can save you money on checked bags and reduce your wait time at the gate. Delta typically charges $35 to check the first bag under 50 pounds.
The Platinum Delta Credit Card also offers a welcome offer, which can be a nice incentive to sign up.
Rewards Program for Everyday Use
The Delta SkyMiles Gold American Express Card encourages everyday use by offering bonus rewards in several common spending categories.
You'll earn two miles for every $1 spent on eligible purchases made directly with Delta, and two miles for every $1 spent at U.S. supermarkets and restaurants worldwide, including delivery and takeout in the U.S.
One mile is earned per $1 on all other purchases, which might not be as lucrative but still contributes to your overall rewards earnings.
The card's bonus rewards structure is designed to incentivize frequent use, making it a great option for those with regular expenses in these categories.
However, to take full advantage of the card's potential value, you'll need to make at least $10,000 in eligible purchases per year to earn the $200 Delta flight credit.
Earning Miles
Earning miles with a Delta credit card can be a great way to accumulate rewards for your everyday spending. The Delta SkyMiles Gold American Express Card offers two miles for every $1 spent on eligible purchases at supermarkets and restaurants, and two miles for every $1 spent directly with Delta.
You'll also earn one mile per $1 on all other purchases, which is a decent rate for a co-branded airline card. To take advantage of the card's potential $200 Delta flight credit, you'll need to make at least $10,000 in eligible purchases in a year, which may not be feasible for everyone.
The Delta Platinum Amex card offers more generous earning rates, with 3x SkyMiles for purchases directly with Delta and hotels, and 2x SkyMiles at restaurants and U.S. supermarkets.
Here's a comparison of the earning rates for the Delta Platinum Amex and the American Express Gold Card:
Earning Amex Membership Rewards points can also be a great way to accumulate miles, as they can be transferred to Delta SkyMiles at a 1:1 ratio. The American Express Green Card and American Express Gold Card offer 3x points on dining and travel, and 4x points at restaurants and supermarkets respectively.
Best Perks & Features

The Platinum Delta Amex Card is a great choice for frequent Delta flyers. The card offers a welcome offer that can be worth putting spending on, especially if you're trying to earn Medallion elite status with Delta SkyMiles.
One of the standout benefits of this card is the annual companion certificate, which can be worth significantly more than the annual fee. This certificate allows you to bring a companion on a main cabin round-trip flight within the United States or to select destinations in the Caribbean or Central America.
To use the companion certificate, you'll need to pay the government-imposed taxes and fees for the companion, but this can still be a great deal. Here are some key things to keep in mind when redeeming the certificate:
- It's valid for roundtrip main cabin travel within the United States (including Alaska and Hawaii) and to select destinations in the Caribbean or Central America
- You have to pay the government taxes for the second traveler on the reservation
- Companion certificates are only valid for travel in the L, U, T, X, and V fare classes
- You can't combine a companion certificate with eCoupons
- Travel has to be completed by the expiration date of the certificate
- You have to pay for the ticket using a Delta Amex card
The Platinum Delta Amex Card also offers a 3X rewards rate on Delta purchases, making it a solid choice for frequent flyers. With an annual fee of $350, this card is definitely worth considering if you value the benefits and perks it offers.
Business
In the business world, having the right features and perks can make all the difference in attracting and retaining top talent. Many companies offer flexible work arrangements, such as telecommuting or flexible hours, which can improve employee satisfaction and productivity.
Some companies also offer generous parental leave policies, providing up to 26 weeks of paid leave for new parents. This can be a major perk for employees with families.
Having a comprehensive benefits package can also be a major draw for employees, including access to on-site fitness classes, mental health resources, and employee assistance programs. Many companies also offer student loan repayment programs, which can be a significant perk for young professionals.
With the right features and perks, companies can create a positive and supportive work environment that attracts and retains top talent.
Key Perks Missing
The Delta SkyMiles credit cards have some notable omissions when it comes to perks. No complimentary lounge access is offered with the Delta SkyMiles Gold American Express Card.

Here are some of the key perks that are missing from the Delta SkyMiles credit cards:
- No complimentary lounge access
- Limited in-flight discounts (20% off food and beverage and audio headset purchases, but not onboard Wi-Fi)
- No companion fare
Traveling internationally can be expensive, but the Delta SkyMiles Gold American Express Card charges no foreign transaction fees, which can help you save money on your travels.
Expert Opinion
American Express Skymiles credit cards offer a range of benefits, but one thing's for sure - they're ideal for frequent flyers.
The Delta SkyMiles Gold American Express Card is a great option for those who occasionally fly with Delta, offering perks like free checked bags and priority boarding.
Discounts on Delta flights are also available with this card, making it a smart choice for those who want to save money on their travel expenses.
Free checked bags can be a huge money-saver, especially for families or individuals who travel frequently.
Comparison
The Delta Platinum Amex is a great option for the more frequent Delta flyer. It's designed for those who take to the skies often and want to earn rewards that reflect their loyalty.
The Delta Platinum Amex is a more premium card than the Gold Delta Amex, offering more perks and benefits for the frequent flyer. This includes a higher earning rate on Delta purchases and more opportunities to earn Medallion Qualification Miles.
If you're looking for a more affordable option, the Gold Delta Amex might be the way to go. It still offers some great rewards and benefits, but at a lower cost than the Platinum card.
Quick Comparison: Gold
The Delta Gold Amex is a solid choice for those who fly Delta occasionally.
It's worth noting that the Delta Gold Amex is mentioned alongside the Delta Platinum Amex in a comparison, suggesting it's a viable option for those who don't need the extra perks of the Platinum card.
The Delta Gold Amex is a good option for those who want to earn rewards on their Delta purchases without breaking the bank.
You can find more information on the rates and fees for the Delta Gold Amex by checking out the American Express website.
The Delta Gold Amex is a great starting point for those who are new to the world of travel rewards credit cards.
Reserve Comparison
The Delta Reserve Card is a top-tier option for frequent flyers. It has a $650 annual fee.
One of the key benefits is access to Delta Sky Club and Amex Centurion Lounge, with 15 visits per year to the Delta Sky Club, effective February 1, 2025. To earn unlimited visits, you'll need to make $75,000 or more in eligible purchases between January 1, 2024, and December 31, 2024, and each calendar year thereafter.
Having the Reserve Card also gives you upgrade priority over other Delta flyers in the same elite tier and fare class. This can be a huge advantage for those who value comfort and convenience.
The card also offers a companion certificate valid for first class travel. This alone can justify the annual fee for many users, without even considering the other perks.
In addition to these benefits, the Reserve Card offers a range of other perks and rewards for frequent flyers.
Bottom Line
The annual fee on these cards is potentially quite easy to justify, thanks to all the credits you can earn with rideshares, Resy, and even Delta Stays.
With the ability to earn credits on various services, it's not hard to see how the fee can be worth it, especially for frequent travelers or those who use these services often.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Amex Delta SkyMiles hard to get?
While a credit score of 690 or higher is generally required, some applicants with lower scores (as low as 640) may still be approved if other credit factors are strong. Approval for the Delta SkyMiles Amex card depends on a combination of creditworthiness and other factors.
Sources
- https://www.creditkarma.com/credit-cards/insights/delta-skymiles-gold-american-express-card
- https://www.cnbc.com/select/amex-delta-card-offers/
- https://www.creditcards.com/credit-cards/platinum-delta-skymiles-credit-card/
- https://www.creditkarma.com/credit-cards/insights/delta-platinum-amex
- https://onemileatatime.com/reviews/credit-cards/american-express/delta-platinum-amex-card/
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