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 Capital One Spark Cash
Both are well-respected travel cards. The Delta SkyMiles Platinum Amex comes from American Express at $350/yr; the Capital One Spark Cash from Capital One 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 Capital One Spark Cash, 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 | Capital One Spark Cash |
|---|---|---|
| Annual fee | $350 | $95 |
| Sign-up bonus | 90,000 miles | $1,000 cash bonus |
| Bonus value (est.) | $990 | $1,000 |
| Min spend to unlock bonus | - | $10,000 in 3 mo |
| Issuer | American Express | Capital One |
| Card category | travel | business |
| Best earning category (Delta) | 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
Capital One Spark Cash
$95/yr · $1,000 cash bonus
Editorial take: Capital One Spark Cash
Common questions
- Which card has the bigger sign-up bonus, Delta SkyMiles Platinum Amex or Capital One Spark Cash?
- The Capital One Spark Cash has the bigger bonus, $1,000 cash bonus, worth roughly $1,000, 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 Capital One Spark Cash?
- 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 Capital One Spark Cash's, pick the one whose perks you'll actually use.
- Can I have both the Delta SkyMiles Platinum Amex and Capital One Spark Cash?
- Yes, since they're from different issuers (American Express and Capital One) 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 Capital One Spark Cash first?
- Get the one whose sign-up bonus you can hit comfortably without overspending. Delta SkyMiles Platinum Amex: no published min spend. Capital One Spark Cash: $10,000 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.