When it comes to premium travel credit cards, the Amex Platinum and Delta Reserve are two top contenders. Both offer exceptional perks, but choosing the right one depends on your travel habits and goals. This article will break down the key features of each card to help you decide.

Annual Fees Comparison

FeatureAmex PlatinumDelta ReserveAnnual Fee$695 per year$650 per year

Both save-you-money">cards come with hefty fees, but the benefits they offer can easily offset the cost for frequent travelers.

Welcome Bonuses

FeatureAmex PlatinumDelta ReserveWelcome Bonus80,000 Membership Rewards points after spending $8,000 in the first six months100,000 Delta SkyMiles after spending $6,000 in the first six months

The Amex Platinum’s Membership Rewards points can be transferred to multiple airline partners, while credit-cards/delta-sky-miles-reserve-card">Delta Reserve’s SkyMiles are more focused on Delta-specific benefits.

Earning Rates

CategoryAmex PlatinumDelta ReserveFlights booked directly or through Amex Travel5x pointsN/APrepaid hotels through Amex Travel5x pointsN/ADelta purchasesN/A3x milesAll other purchases1x point1x mile

If you value flexibility and want to earn rewards across multiple airlines and hotel programs, Amex Platinum is the better choice. For Delta loyalists, Delta Reserve’s earning structure is more appealing.

Lounge Access

FeatureAmex PlatinumDelta ReserveAmex Centurion Lounge Access✅✅ (Only when flying Delta)Delta Sky Club Access10 annual visits15 annual visits + 4 guest passesPriority Pass Select✅❌

Amex Platinum wins for those who want access to a variety of lounges globally, while Delta Reserve is ideal for frequent Delta flyers who want more Delta Sky Club visits.

Additional Perks and Travel Credits

PerkAmex PlatinumDelta ReserveUber Cash$200 annually❌Airline Fee Credit$200❌Saks Fifth Avenue Credit$100❌Global Entry/TSA PreCheck✅✅Marriott & Hilton Gold Status✅❌Annual Companion Certificate❌✅Free First Checked Bag❌✅Complimentary Upgrades❌✅Earn MQDs Through Spending❌✅Resy Credit❌$240

The Amex Platinum provides broader lifestyle benefits, while the Delta Reserve focuses on enhancing the Delta travel experience.

Which Card is Best for You?

Best ForAmex PlatinumDelta ReserveLuxury travelers seeking flexibility✅❌Delta loyalists aiming for elite status❌✅Global lounge access✅❌Delta Sky Club visits✅ (limited)✅ (more access)High-end lifestyle perks✅❌

The Amex Platinum excels in luxury travel benefits and flexibility, while the Delta Reserve is tailored to dedicated Delta customers aiming for elite status. Your choice ultimately depends on your travel preferences and spending habits.