Editorial take: Delta SkyMiles Platinum Amex
The companion certificate alone usually covers the annual fee on a single trip. If you fly Delta domestically at least once a year with a partner, this is worth it.
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Side-by-side
Delta SkyMiles Platinum Amex vs Alaska Airlines Visa Signature
Both are travel travel cards. The Delta SkyMiles Platinum Amex comes from American Express at $350/yr; the Alaska Airlines Visa Signature from Bank of America 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 Alaska Airlines Visa Signature, its annual fee is significantly lower and the bonus values are similar. Upgrade later if you find yourself using the higher-tier benefits.
| Feature | Delta SkyMiles Platinum Amex | Alaska Airlines Visa Signature |
|---|---|---|
| Annual fee | $350 | $95 |
| Sign-up bonus | 90,000 miles | 70,000 miles + Companion Fare |
| Bonus value (est.) | $990 | $1,050 |
| Min spend to unlock bonus | - | $3,000 in 90 mo |
| Issuer | American Express | Bank of America |
| Card category | travel | travel |
| Best earning category (Travel) | 3x | 1x |
| Transfer partners | None | None |
| Headline benefits |
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Read the full review
Delta SkyMiles Platinum Amex
$350/yr · 90,000 miles
Read the full review
Alaska Airlines Visa Signature
$95/yr · 70,000 miles + Companion Fare
Editorial take: Alaska Airlines Visa Signature
The Companion Fare is the hook, $122 + taxes/fees to bring a companion on any Alaska flight, even international business class. If you fly Alaska once a year with a partner, this pays for itself many times over.
Common questions
- Which card has the bigger sign-up bonus, Delta SkyMiles Platinum Amex or Alaska Airlines Visa Signature?
- The Alaska Airlines Visa Signature has the bigger bonus, 70,000 miles + Companion Fare, worth roughly $1,050, versus 90,000 miles (~$990) on the Delta SkyMiles Platinum Amex.
- Is the Delta SkyMiles Platinum Amex's $350 annual fee worth it compared to the Alaska Airlines Visa Signature?
- At $350/yr, the Delta SkyMiles Platinum Amex is in the mid-fee tier. Compare its specific perks (lounge access, travel credits, primary rental insurance) to the Alaska Airlines Visa Signature's, pick the one whose perks you'll actually use.
- Can I have both the Delta SkyMiles Platinum Amex and Alaska Airlines Visa Signature?
- Yes, since they're from different issuers (American Express and Bank of America) 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 Amex or the Alaska Airlines Visa Signature first?
- Get the one whose sign-up bonus you can hit comfortably without overspending. Delta SkyMiles Platinum Amex: no published min spend. Alaska Airlines Visa Signature: $3,000 in 90 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.