Head to head

Delta SkyMiles Platinum American Express Card vs. United Explorer Card

On the criteria below, United Explorer Card wins 2 of 3. The verdict depends on which criteria matter to you.

Delta SkyMiles Platinum American Express Card

Amex

Chase

At a glance

United Explorer Card wins 2 of 3 criteria here, making it the stronger all-rounder.

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

Pick the United Explorer Card if year-one math is your priority; take the United Explorer Card if you want a cheaper card to keep long-term.

1 vs 2

First-year math United Explorer Card

United Explorer Card wins on bonus value minus annual fee.
Annual fee United Explorer Card

United Explorer Card is $200 cheaper to keep.
Earning ceiling Delta SkyMiles Platinum American Express Card

Delta SkyMiles Platinum American Express Card earns more on its best category (3× vs 2×).

Annual fee: $350; $150
Welcome offer (typical value): $1,080; $910
First-year net: +$730; +$760
Peak earning rate: 3×; 2×
Top categories: Airfare, Hotels Resorts, Dining; Airfare, Hotels Resorts, Dining
Lounge access: No; No
Travel insurance: Yes; Yes
Elite status: Yes; No
Foreign transaction fee: None; None
Reward currency: Delta SkyMiles; United MileagePlus

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