Choosing between the Delta SkyMiles Gold American Express Card ($150/yr) and the Southwest Rapid Rewards Premier Card ($149/yr) comes down to where you spend most. Both cards can deliver real value — let’s break it down, then run your numbers to find the winner.
Strongest in travel at 2%. 2x miles on Delta, restaurants, and U.S. supermarkets. Free first checked bag and priority boarding on Delta.
Perfect if: You want a strong rewards rate with no spending caps to worry about.
Apply NowStrongest in travel at 3%. 3x on Southwest purchases, 2x on groceries and restaurants up to $8,000/year.
Perfect if: You want a strong rewards rate with no spending caps to worry about.
Apply Now| Feature | Delta SkyMiles Gold American Express Card | Southwest Rapid Rewards Premier Card |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Fee | $150 | $149 |
| Sign-Up Bonus | 90,000 miles after $5,000 spend in 6 months | 50,000 points after $1,000 spend in 3 months |
| Foreign Transaction Fee | 0% | 0% |
| Base Reward Rate | <strong>1.0%</strong> | <strong>1.0%</strong> |
| Travel Rewards | 2% | <strong>3%</strong> |
| Dining Rewards | <strong>2%</strong> | 1% |
| Groceries Rewards | <strong>2%</strong> | 1% |
| Key Benefits | 2x miles on Delta, restaurants, and U.S. supermarkets. Free first checked bag and priority boarding on Delta. | 3x on Southwest purchases, 2x on groceries and restaurants up to $8,000/year. |
Delta SkyMiles Gold American Express Card pulls ahead for dining, groceries spending.
Southwest Rapid Rewards Premier Card wins on travel.
Not sure which fits your life? Enter your spending below and we’ll do the math.
Enter your typical monthly spending and we’ll show you exactly which card earns more — including fees and bonuses.