Delta Gold vs. Platinum Amex: Which Card Offers More Value?

When it comes to maximizing travel rewards, Delta Air Lines and American Express have teamed up to create a diverse range of airline credit cards that cater to various traveler needs. Among these, the Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card and the Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card stand out as popular options. If you’re considering applying for one of these cards, you might be wondering which one is the better fit for your travel habits and financial goals.

In this article, we’ll compare the Delta Gold Amex and the Delta Platinum Amex, focusing on their benefits, annual fees, and overall value to help you make an informed decision.

Welcome Offers: A Closer Look

Both cards come with enticing welcome offers that can significantly boost your SkyMiles balance. New Delta Gold Amex cardholders can earn 80,000 bonus miles after spending $3,000 within the first six months of membership. This offer, valued at approximately $920 based on TPG’s July 2025 valuations, matches the highest welcome offer seen for this card in recent months.

On the other hand, the Delta Platinum Amex offers a slightly more generous welcome bonus of 90,000 miles after spending $4,000 in the same timeframe, valued at around $1,035. While the Delta Platinum’s offer is slightly below its peak, it remains a compelling incentive for those who travel frequently with Delta.

Annual Fees: Weighing the Costs

When evaluating these cards, it’s crucial to consider the annual fees. The Delta Gold has a $0 introductory annual fee for the first year, followed by a $150 fee in subsequent years. In contrast, the Delta Platinum comes with a higher annual fee of $350.

While the Platinum card provides a more substantial welcome offer, the higher fee may not be justified for infrequent travelers. If you fly Delta only a couple of times a year, the Gold card may be the more economical choice.

Long-Term Benefits: What Sets Them Apart?

The Delta Platinum Amex offers several long-term benefits that could enhance your travel experience. Notably, it provides a Medallion Qualification Dollar (MQD) boost, granting 2,500 MQD toward elite status at the beginning of each Medallion Qualification Year. Additionally, cardholders earn 1 MQD for every $20 spent throughout the year, a feature not available with the Delta Gold.

Both cards offer statement credits, but the Platinum card includes a wider array of benefits. For instance, cardholders receive a companion certificate, allowing them to book a second seat in the Main Cabin on a round-trip itinerary for just the taxes and fees, which can lead to significant savings on expensive tickets. Furthermore, the Platinum Amex provides a Global Entry/TSA PreCheck fee credit, available once every four to 4½ years, offering $120 for Global Entry or up to $85 for TSA PreCheck.

Earning Potential: Maximizing SkyMiles

Both cards allow you to earn Delta SkyMiles, with the Platinum card offering superior earning potential in specific categories. The Delta Gold earns:

– 2 miles per dollar spent on Delta purchases
– 1 mile per dollar on other eligible purchases

In contrast, the Delta Platinum earns:

– 3 miles per dollar on Delta purchases
– 3 miles per dollar on hotel purchases worldwide
– 1 mile per dollar on other eligible purchases

If you frequently spend on Delta flights and hotels, the Platinum card’s higher earning rates make it a more attractive option.

Redemption Options: Getting the Most from Your Miles

Both cards provide similar redemption options, allowing you to book award flights on Delta and its partner airlines, including those within the SkyTeam alliance. Delta utilizes a dynamic pricing model for award flights, meaning that the number of miles required can fluctuate. However, savvy travelers can take advantage of mileage flash sales that offer discounted flights.

Additionally, SkyMiles can be redeemed for non-flight options, such as premium drinks at Delta Sky Clubs. While these redemptions may yield less value than booking flights, they still offer flexibility in how you use your miles.

Final Thoughts: Which Card is Right for You?

Ultimately, the choice between the Delta Gold and Platinum Amex depends on your travel frequency and preferences. If you fly Delta regularly and can take advantage of the additional perks offered by the Platinum card, it may be worth the higher annual fee. The annual companion certificate, MQD boost, and enhanced earning potential can significantly enhance your travel experience.

Conversely, if you only fly Delta a few times a year or are looking to minimize costs, the Delta Gold Amex is a solid choice. Its lower annual fee and generous welcome offer provide excellent value for occasional travelers.

Both cards are designed to cater to different types of travelers, so consider your travel habits and financial situation carefully before making a decision.

For more detailed insights, check out our full reviews of the Delta Gold and Delta Platinum cards.

If you’re ready to apply, you can find the Delta SkyMiles Gold Amex [here](#) and the Delta SkyMiles Platinum Amex [here](#).

By leveraging the benefits of these cards, you can transform your everyday spending into extraordinary travel experiences.