BonusCeilingDelta SkyMiles Gold American Express Card vs United Explorer Card: sign-up bonus comparison (Oct 2026)
Delta SkyMiles Gold American Express Card: As high as 80,000 miles after $3,000 spend in 6 months (offer varies) ($0 first year, then $150 annual fee). United Explorer Card: 70,000 miles after $3,000 spend in 3 months + 10,000 for adding an authorized user ($0 first year, then $150 annual fee). Both need the same spend. United Explorer Card is closer to its all-time high right now (88% of its all-time high (not elevated right now)). Data checked 2026-10-16; the right pick depends on which rewards you'll use and whether you can meet the spend with normal purchases.
By TK · Updated
| Delta SkyMiles Gold American Express Card | United Explorer Card | |
|---|---|---|
| Issuer | American Express | Chase |
| Type | Personal | Personal |
| Current offer | As high as 80,000 miles after $3,000 spend in 6 months (offer varies) | 70,000 miles after $3,000 spend in 3 months + 10,000 for adding an authorized user |
| Minimum spend | $3,000 in 6 months | $3,000 in 3 months |
| Annual fee | $0 first year, then $150 | $0 first year, then $150 |
| Earns | Delta SkyMiles | United miles |
| All-time high | Unknown (not verified) | 80,000 miles after $3,000 in 3 months (Mar 25-May 7, 2025) per AwardWallet |
| vs. record | History unknown | 88% of record |
| Issuer rules | Amex once-per-lifetime | Chase 5/24, Chase co-brand 24 months |
| Verified | Yes, 2026-10-16 | Yes, 2026-10-16 |
| Apply | American Express site | Chase site |
Frequently asked questions
Which has the bigger bonus, Delta SkyMiles Gold American Express Card or United Explorer Card?
Delta SkyMiles Gold American Express Card: As high as 80,000 miles after $3,000 spend in 6 months (offer varies). United Explorer Card: 70,000 miles after $3,000 spend in 3 months + 10,000 for adding an authorized user. They earn different currencies (Delta SkyMiles vs United miles), so compare by how you'd redeem them.
Which bonus is easier to earn?
They require the same spend.
Can I get both?
Possibly, if you meet each issuer's rules: Delta SkyMiles Gold American Express Card: Amex once-per-lifetime; United Explorer Card: Chase 5/24, Chase co-brand 24 months.