Head to head

Delta SkyMiles Gold American Express Card vs. The Platinum Card from American Express

On the criteria below, The Platinum Card from American Express wins 3 of 4. The verdict depends on which criteria matter to you.

Delta SkyMiles Gold American Express Card

Amex

The Platinum Card from American Express

Amex

At a glance

The Platinum Card from American Express wins 3 of 4 criteria here, making it the stronger all-rounder.

Delta SkyMiles Gold American Express Card wins on annual fee; The Platinum Card from American Express wins on first-year math, earning ceiling, and lounge access.

Pick the The Platinum Card from American Express 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 3
  • First-year math The Platinum Card from American Express

    The Platinum Card from American Express wins on bonus value minus annual fee.

  • Annual fee Delta SkyMiles Gold American Express Card

    Delta SkyMiles Gold American Express Card is $745 cheaper to keep.

  • Earning ceiling The Platinum Card from American Express

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

  • Lounge access The Platinum Card from American Express

    The Platinum Card from American Express includes lounge access; the other doesn't.

By the numbers

Annual fee
$150
$895
Welcome offer (typical value)
$960
$2,800
First-year net
+$810
+$1,905
Peak earning rate
Top categories
Dining, U.S. Supermarkets, Airfare
Flights, Prepaid Hotels
Lounge access
No
centurion, delta-sky-club, priority-pass
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.