Delta vs United: Best Credit Card Strategy for Frequent Flyers in 2026

Delta SkyMiles Amex cards and United MileagePlus Chase cards are the two most popular airline credit card families in 2026. If you fly Delta frequently, the Delta SkyMiles Gold ($150/year) and Platinum ($350/year) Amex cards offer companion certificates, free checked bags, and mile earning on everyday spend. If you fly United frequently, the United Explorer ($95/year) and United Quest ($250/year) Chase cards offer similar benefits plus United's superior international partner network (Star Alliance). The strategic difference: Delta SkyMiles have devalued significantly since dynamic pricing eliminated award charts, while United MileagePlus still publishes a saver award chart with predictable redemption values for many international routes.