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Delta SkyMiles Platinum Business American Express Card vs United Explorer Card

Both are airline travel cards. The Delta SkyMiles Platinum Business American Express Card comes from American Express at $350/yr; the United Explorer Card from Chase at $95/yr. Below: side-by-side specs, an opinionated verdict, and the FAQs people actually ask before applying.

Bottom line

If you're not sure you'll use premium perks, start with the United Explorer Card — its annual fee is significantly lower and the bonus values are similar. Upgrade later if you find yourself using the higher-tier benefits.

FeatureDelta SkyMiles Platinum Business American Express CardUnited Explorer Card
Annual fee$350$95
Sign-up bonus85,000 miles60,000 miles
Bonus value (est.)$1,020$780
Min spend to unlock bonus$6,000 in 6 mo$3,000 in 3 mo
IssuerAmerican ExpressChase
Card categoryairlineairline
Best earning category (Delta)3x1x
Transfer partnersskymilesNone
Headline benefits
  • Annual companion cert
  • Free bag for 9 travelers
  • Sky Club at $50/visit
  • $10/mo resy credit
  • Free checked bag
  • 2 United Club passes/year
  • Priority boarding
  • 25% back on inflight purchases
Read the full review
Delta SkyMiles Platinum Business American Express Card
$350/yr · 85,000 miles
Read the full review
United Explorer Card
$95/yr · 60,000 miles

Editorial take: Delta SkyMiles Platinum Business American Express Card

Strong middle-tier Delta card. The annual companion certificate alone covers the $350 fee for any couple flying domestic. Sky Club access at member rate is also better than nothing.

Editorial take: United Explorer Card

Solid for United flyers. The free checked bag and 2 United Club passes per year add up, and the 60k bonus is a great starting point for domestic award flights.

Common questions

Which card has the bigger sign-up bonus, Delta SkyMiles Platinum Business American Express Card or United Explorer Card?
The Delta SkyMiles Platinum Business American Express Card has the bigger bonus — 85,000 miles, worth roughly $1,020, versus 60,000 miles (~$780) on the United Explorer Card.
Is the Delta SkyMiles Platinum Business American Express Card's $350 annual fee worth it compared to the United Explorer Card?
At $350/yr, the Delta SkyMiles Platinum Business American Express Card is in the mid-fee tier. Compare its specific perks (lounge access, travel credits, primary rental insurance) to the United Explorer Card's — pick the one whose perks you'll actually use.
Can I have both the Delta SkyMiles Platinum Business American Express Card and United Explorer Card?
Yes, since they're from different issuers (American Express and Chase) the application rules don't conflict. Many points enthusiasts hold both — they pair well when one earns flexible bank points and the other earns a different currency.
Should I get the Delta SkyMiles Platinum Business American Express Card or the United Explorer Card first?
Get the one whose sign-up bonus you can hit comfortably without overspending. Delta SkyMiles Platinum Business American Express Card: $6,000 spend in 6 months. United Explorer Card: $3,000 in 3 months. Pick the easier minimum spend if you're new to points; pick the larger bonus if you have planned big purchases coming up.

Card details on this page reflect the most recent data we've verified against the issuer's own site. Sign-up bonuses and fees can change at any time — confirm the current offer on the issuer's page before applying.