credit card like the Delta SkyMiles Reserve American Express Card to a mid-tier credit card like the Delta SkyMiles Platinum American Express Card, it’s important to consider the benefits and value that each card offers.
The welcome offers on both cards are quite compelling. The Delta SkyMiles Platinum Card offers 90,000 miles after spending $4,000 in the first six months, while the Delta SkyMiles Reserve Card offers 100,000 bonus miles after spending $6,000 in the first six months. Based on the valuation of Delta SkyMiles at 1.2 cents each, the Delta Reserve Card has a slightly higher value at $1,200 compared to the Delta Platinum Card’s value of $1,080.
In terms of earning rates, the Delta Platinum Card offers more bonus categories. Cardmembers earn 3 miles per dollar on eligible Delta purchases and direct hotel purchases, 2 miles per dollar on dining at restaurants and U.S. supermarkets, and 1 mile per dollar on all other purchases. On the other hand, the Delta Reserve Card only offers 3 miles per dollar on eligible Delta purchases and 1 mile per dollar on all other purchases. Therefore, if you spend a significant amount on dining and at U.S. supermarkets, the Delta Platinum Card would be the better choice.
Both cards offer similar benefits such as a Global Entry/TSA PreCheck fee credit, first checked bag free on Delta flights for you and up to eight companions, priority boarding, and 20% off inflight purchases. However, the Delta Reserve Card offers unlimited access to Delta Sky Club lounges when traveling on same-day Delta-marketed flights. Starting from February 2025, visits will be capped at 15 day visits annually unless cardmembers spend at least $75,000 in the previous calendar year. The Delta Reserve Card also includes four one-time guest passes for the Delta Sky Club, with a fee of $50 per person per visit. The Delta Platinum Card, on the other hand, offers access to Delta Sky Club lounges with limitations. The Delta Reserve Card also offers higher statement credits such as up to $240 annual Resy credit, up to $120 annual ride-hailing credit, and up to $200 Delta Stays credit for hotel bookings. The Delta Platinum Card has slightly lower statement credits, including up to $120 Resy credit, up to $120 ride-hailing credit, and up to $150 Delta Stays credit. The Delta Reserve Card also comes with complimentary Hertz President’s Circle status, while the Delta Platinum Card offers Hertz Five Star status.
When it comes to redeeming miles, both cards allow you to use your SkyMiles for travel on Delta flights and partner airlines. Delta uses a dynamic award pricing system, so redemption rates can fluctuate. However, both cards offer a 15% discount on the mileage cost for award tickets booked and paid for using a Delta cobranded card.
In conclusion, the choice between the Delta SkyMiles Platinum American Express Card and the Delta SkyMiles Reserve American Express Card depends on your travel habits, spending patterns, and the level of benefits that you value. If you prioritize access to Delta Sky Club lounges, higher statement credits, and a better Medallion Qualification Dollars (MQD) earning rate, the Delta Reserve Card would be the better option. However, if you spend a significant amount on dining and at U.S. supermarkets and value a lower annual fee, the Delta Platinum Card would be a more suitable choice.