Head-to-head · 🇺🇸 United States
Chase Sapphire Reserve vs Amex Delta SkyMiles Gold
Side-by-side comparison across fees, rewards, welcome bonuses, and eligibility.
US
Premium
Chase
Chase Sapphire Reserve
VISA
Wins 2 of 10
US
American Express
Amex Delta SkyMiles Gold
AMERICAN
EXPRESS
EXPRESS
Wins 2 of 10
Verdict
It's a true tie — neither dominates. Pick the one whose boost categories match where you actually spend.
Side-by-side
| Criterion | Chase Sapphire Reserve | Amex Delta SkyMiles Gold |
|---|---|---|
| Annual fee | · $550 | $150 |
| Joining fee | = None | = None |
| Top reward rate | 10% (travel) | · 2% (travel) |
| Base reward rate | = 1% | = 1% |
| Forex markup | = No FX fee | = No FX fee |
| Welcome bonus | = 60,000 points after $4,000 in first 3 months | = 40,000 SkyMiles after $2,000 spend in 6 months |
| Fee waiver threshold | = No waiver | = No waiver |
| Min income | = — | = — |
| Min credit score | · 740 | 700 |
| Editorial rating | 4.7/5 | · 4.3/5 |
Benefits compared
Chase Sapphire Reserve
- 10x on hotels and rental cars booked via Chase Travel
- 5x on flights booked via Chase Travel
- 3x on all other dining + travel
- $300 annual travel credit
- Priority Pass Select + Chase Sapphire Lounge access
- 50% bonus when redeeming for travel via Chase portal
Amex Delta SkyMiles Gold
- 2x miles on Delta + restaurants + US supermarkets
- $200 Delta flight credit annually
- Free first checked bag (worth ~$60 each way)
- Priority Boarding (Zone 5)
- 15% miles discount on award flights
FAQ
›Chase Sapphire Reserve vs Amex Delta SkyMiles Gold: which is better?
It's a true tie — pick the one whose boost categories match your spend. Chase Sapphire Reserve wins on 2 criteria, Amex Delta SkyMiles Gold on 2.
›Can I get both?
Yes — if your credit profile supports it, holding both is the optimal play. Use Chase Sapphire Reserve for its best categories, Amex Delta SkyMiles Gold for its best categories. Just watch the combined annual fees against your spend.
›Which one has the better welcome bonus?
Chase Sapphire Reserve: 60,000 points after $4,000 in first 3 months. Amex Delta SkyMiles Gold: 40,000 SkyMiles after $2,000 spend in 6 months.