Both are premium Amex cards, but they reward different loyalty. The Delta SkyMiles Reserve, at $650, gives Delta Sky Club access, an annual companion certificate, and a boost toward Medallion status, best for loyal Delta flyers. The Amex Platinum leads on the widest lounge network and a broad credit stack across airlines. If you fly Delta and value the companion certificate, the Reserve; if you fly many airlines and use lounges everywhere, the Platinum.
Delta Reserve vs Amex Platinum, head to head
| Category | Delta SkyMiles Reserve | American Express Platinum |
|---|---|---|
| Annual fee | $650 | $895 |
| Top earn rates | 3x on Delta, 1x everything else | 5x flights and prepaid hotels via Amex Travel |
| Credits | Annual companion certificate and Delta Stays credit; confirm current terms at American Express | More than $3,500: hotel, airline, Resy, Uber, entertainment |
| Lounge access | Delta Sky Club | Widest: Global Lounge Collection, 1,550-plus |
| Transfer partners | Delta SkyMiles, its own program | Amex Membership Rewards partners |
American Express Platinum
Our pick for most people. Confirm the current welcome offer and terms at the issuer.
Which should you pick
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Pick the Delta Reserve if Delta is your airline and you will use the Sky Club access and the annual companion certificate. To find fares the certificate accepts, use the ITA Matrix extension codes for the Delta companion certificate.
Pick the Amex Platinum if you fly several airlines and want the widest lounge access and a broad travel credit stack.
The honest tradeoff
The Delta Reserve is worth most to loyal Delta flyers through the companion certificate and Sky Club access. The Platinum spreads its value across airlines and a larger credit stack.
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FAQ
Is the Delta Reserve or Amex Platinum better?
The Delta Reserve for loyal Delta flyers who use the Sky Club access and companion certificate; the Amex Platinum for travelers who fly multiple airlines and want the widest lounge network.
Does the Amex Platinum get Delta Sky Club access?
The Platinum includes limited Delta Sky Club visits when flying Delta; the Delta Reserve includes fuller Sky Club access. Confirm current lounge terms at American Express.
Which card has the companion certificate?
The Delta SkyMiles Reserve. The Amex Platinum does not include a Delta companion certificate.
Which has the lower annual fee?
The Delta Reserve at $650, versus $895 for the Amex Platinum. Confirm current fees at American Express.
Last reviewed October 2026. We verify every rule, ratio, and figure against issuer terms and current reporting, and date each one. See our editorial standards for how we research and correct guides.
We re-check these guides as issuer rules and award charts change. 2 ways to follow along, no account needed.