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Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card vs Southwest Rapid Rewards® Priority Credit Card
This comparison aims to help you decide between the Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card and the Southwest Rapid Rewards® Priority Credit Card. Both cards offer unique benefits tailored to frequent travelers, but they cater to different airline loyalty programs and travel preferences.
Card Overviews
Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card
The Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card is designed for travelers who frequently fly with Delta Airlines. It offers a range of rewards for Delta purchases, dining, and supermarket spending, along with valuable travel perks, making it an excellent choice for loyal Delta customers.
Southwest Rapid Rewards® Priority Credit Card
The Southwest Rapid Rewards® Priority Credit Card is ideal for those who prefer Southwest Airlines. This card provides generous rewards on Southwest purchases and additional benefits such as anniversary points and travel credits, catering well to Southwest loyalists.
Detailed Feature Comparison
| Feature | Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card | Southwest Rapid Rewards® Priority Credit Card |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Fee | $0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $150 | $149 |
| Welcome Bonus | 50,000 Bonus Miles after spending $2,000 in the first 6 months | 50,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 in the first 3 months |
| Rewards Structure | 2X Miles on Delta purchases, U.S. supermarkets, and restaurants; 1X Mile on other purchases | 3X points on Southwest purchases; 2X points on local transit, commuting, and select services |
| Foreign Transaction Fee | None | None |
| Other Fees | $200 Delta Flight Credit after spending $10,000 | $75 Southwest travel credit each year |
| Additional Benefits | Free first checked bag, priority boarding, hotel credits | 7,500 anniversary points, no blackout dates |
Rewards Highlights
- Earn 2X Miles on Delta purchases, at U.S. Supermarkets and at restaurants worldwide, including takeout and delivery in the U.S.
- Earn 1X Mile on all other eligible purchases.
Pros and Cons
Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card
- Pros:
- Generous rewards on Delta purchases and dining.
- Free first checked bag on Delta flights.
- Discounts on award travel and in-flight purchases.
- Annual fee waived for the first year.
- Cons:
- Higher annual fee after the first year.
- Benefits primarily focused on Delta Airlines.
Southwest Rapid Rewards® Priority Credit Card
- Pros:
- Strong rewards on Southwest purchases.
- Annual travel credit and bonus points each year.
- No foreign transaction fees.
- Cons:
- Annual fee is slightly higher than some competitors.
- Limited to Southwest Airlines rewards program.
Who Should Consider Which Card?
- The Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card is ideal for:
- Frequent Delta Airlines flyers.
- Those who often dine out or shop at U.S. supermarkets.
- Travelers looking for valuable perks like free checked bags and priority boarding.
- The Southwest Rapid Rewards® Priority Credit Card is perfect for:
- Loyal Southwest Airlines travelers.
- Individuals who frequently use local transit and streaming services.
- Those who value annual bonuses and travel credits.
Conclusion
When choosing between the Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card and the Southwest Rapid Rewards® Priority Credit Card, consider your travel habits, loyalty to specific airlines, and how you plan to use the card's rewards and benefits. Each card offers unique features that cater to different travel preferences, so assess your individual needs to make the best choice.