Head to head

Delta SkyMiles Gold American Express Card vs. American Express Gold Card

On the criteria below, American Express Gold Card wins 2 of 3. The verdict depends on which criteria matter to you.

Delta SkyMiles Gold American Express Card

Amex

American Express Gold Card

Amex

At a glance

American Express Gold Card wins 2 of 3 criteria here, making it the stronger all-rounder.

Delta SkyMiles Gold American Express Card wins on annual fee; American Express Gold Card wins on first-year math and earning ceiling.

Pick the American Express Gold Card if year-one math is your priority; take the Delta SkyMiles Gold American Express Card if you want a cheaper card to keep long-term.

Who wins what

1 vs 2
  • First-year math American Express Gold Card

    American Express Gold Card wins on bonus value minus annual fee.

  • Annual fee Delta SkyMiles Gold American Express Card

    Delta SkyMiles Gold American Express Card is $175 cheaper to keep.

  • Earning ceiling American Express Gold Card

    American Express Gold Card earns more on its best category (5× vs 2×).

By the numbers

Annual fee
$150
$325
Welcome offer (typical value)
$960
$1,600
First-year net
+$810
+$1,275
Peak earning rate
Top categories
Dining, U.S. Supermarkets, Airfare
Dining Worldwide, U.S. Supermarkets, Prepaid Hotels
Lounge access
No
No
Travel insurance
Yes
Yes
Elite status
No
Yes
Foreign transaction fee
None
None
Reward currency
Delta SkyMiles
American Express Membership Rewards

Welcome-offer dollar values use each program's typical-tier valuation from our signup bonus calculator. See the methodology page for sourcing details.