Head to head

Delta SkyMiles Platinum American Express Card vs. Hilton Honors American Express Surpass Card

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

Delta SkyMiles Platinum American Express Card

Amex

Hilton Honors American Express Surpass Card

Amex

At a glance

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

Delta SkyMiles Platinum American Express Card wins on first-year math; Hilton Honors American Express Surpass Card wins on annual fee and earning ceiling.

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

Who wins what

1 vs 2
  • First-year math Delta SkyMiles Platinum American Express Card

    Delta SkyMiles Platinum American Express Card wins on bonus value minus annual fee.

  • Annual fee Hilton Honors American Express Surpass Card

    Hilton Honors American Express Surpass Card is $200 cheaper to keep.

  • Earning ceiling Hilton Honors American Express Surpass Card

    Hilton Honors American Express Surpass Card earns more on its best category (12× vs 3×).

By the numbers

Annual fee
$350
$150
Welcome offer (typical value)
$1,080
$650
First-year net
+$730
+$500
Peak earning rate
12×
Top categories
Airfare, Hotels Resorts, Dining
Hotels Resorts, Dining, U.S. Supermarkets
Lounge access
No
No
Travel insurance
Yes
Yes
Elite status
Yes
Yes
Foreign transaction fee
None
None
Reward currency
Delta SkyMiles
Hilton Honors

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