When it comes to the best airline credit cards of 2025, two popular contenders dominate the conversation: the Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card and the United℠ Explorer Card. Whether you’re chasing elite status, looking for free checked bags, or trying to earn miles faster, both cards offer compelling value—but each serves a different type of traveler.
Let’s break down the benefits, drawbacks, and best use cases for each card to help you choose the one that matches your 2025 travel goals.
Welcome Bonus: 60,000 Miles from Either Card
Delta SkyMiles® Platinum: Earn 60,000 miles after spending $3,000 in the first 6 months.
United Explorer: Earn 60,000 miles after spending $3,000 in the first 3 months.
Verdict:
While the bonuses are the same, United’s faster spending window benefits short‑term planners.
Annual Fee Comparison: Budget vs. Premium
Delta SkyMiles® Platinum: $350
United Explorer: $0 intro for the first year, then $150
Verdict:
The United Explorer Card wins for those seeking a lower annual fee with decent perks. Delta’s higher fee is best justified if you fly Delta often and can maximize the extra benefits.
Checked Bags and Boarding Perks
Delta: Free first checked bag for you + up to 8 companions; Zone 5 priority boarding
United: Free checked bag for you + 1 companion; Group 2 boarding
Verdict:
Delta wins for families and larger groups. If you travel solo or with one partner, both cards are effective—but Delta offers more value to group travelers.
Companion Certificate vs. Lounge Access
Delta SkyMiles® Platinum: Annual companion certificate for main cabin domestic flights
United Explorer: Two United Club lounge passes per year
Verdict:
This depends on your travel style: If you often fly with another person, Delta’s companion pass may be more valuable. For airport comfort, United’s lounge passes offer a great perk.
Travel Perks: TSA PreCheck, In-Flight Discounts, and More
Both cards offer a $100 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck.
Delta: 20% off in‑flight purchases
United: 25% off in‑flight purchases
Verdict:
United offers a stronger in‑flight savings while matching the Delta card’s security credit.
Rewards Earning Potential in 2025
Delta SkyMiles® Platinum: 3× miles on Delta purchases and hotels; 2× on restaurants and U.S. supermarkets; 1× elsewhere.
United Explorer: 2× on United purchases, dining, and hotels; 1× elsewhere.
Verdict:
Delta wins for everyday spend bonus categories—perfect for frequent restaurant and grocery spenders.
Airline Networks: SkyTeam vs. Star Alliance
Delta is part of SkyTeam (19 airlines, ~1,050 destinations).
United belongs to Star Alliance, the world’s largest network (26 airlines, 1,200+ airports).
Verdict:
United offers more international coverage and partner redemption opportunities.
Loyalty Programs: SkyMiles vs. MileagePlus
United MileagePlus: 5–11× miles per $1 (based on status); Excursionist Perk; PQF/PQP path to status.
Delta SkyMiles: 5–11× miles per $1 (Medallion status); dynamic pricing; MQD-only status model.
Verdict:
United gives more flexible elite status paths and easier redemption options.
Lounge Access: Who Offers More?
United Explorer: Two United Club passes per year
Delta SkyMiles® Platinum: No lounge access without upgrading to the Reserve card
Verdict:
United wins for casual lounge access without a higher-priced upgrade.
Best for Each Type of Traveler
- Delta SkyMiles® Platinum if you travel often with family/groups, want grocery and dining bonuses, and will use the companion pass or aim for Medallion status.
- United℠ Explorer if you prefer a lower fee, travel solo or internationally, value lounge access, or want a simpler path to elite status.
Final Verdict: Which Card Wins in 2025?
There’s no universal winner—only the best card for your travel habits. Delta SkyMiles® Platinum excels for group travel and everyday spend rewards, while United Explorer edges ahead for international access, affordable perks, and elite status opportunities.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the best airline credit card for international travel in 2025?
The United℠ Explorer Card may be the better pick due to its Star Alliance membership and global reach.
Is the Delta SkyMiles® Platinum Card worth the $350 annual fee?
Yes—if you regularly fly Delta, use the companion certificate, and make use of its everyday spending bonuses.
Do both cards offer TSA PreCheck/Global Entry credits?
Yes. Each card includes up to $100 in reimbursement every 4–5 years for TSA PreCheck or Global Entry.
Which card offers better mile-earning potential?
Delta offers broader bonus categories (3× on Delta/hotels, 2× on dining/groceries), so frequent spenders in those areas will earn miles faster.
Can I get lounge access with either card?
Only the United Explorer includes two United Club passes annually. Delta’s card requires upgrading to the Reserve tier for lounge benefits.
Which card is better for status?
United’s mix of PQPs and PQFs makes elite status easier to earn. Delta relies on MQDs, which may require higher spending unless upgraded.
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