Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card or U.S. Bank Altitude Reserve?
U.S. Bank Altitude Reserve returns $45 over its fee and Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card returns $50, so the fee difference comes down to which categories you use.


| CATEGORY | DELTA SKYMILES® GOLD AMERICAN EXPRESS CARD | U.S. BANK ALTITUDE RESERVE |
|---|---|---|
| 🌎Travel | $100 | $325 |
| Lounge Access | — | |
| Total credits | $100 | $355 |
| Annual fee | $150 | $400 |
| Net value | -$50 | -$45 |


You use travel.
Frequently asked questions
Which is better, Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card or U.S. Bank Altitude Reserve?
The U.S. Bank Altitude Reserve is better with -$45 net annual value compared to the Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card at -$50. The U.S. Bank Altitude Reserve wins by $5/year.
What's the difference between Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card and U.S. Bank Altitude Reserve?
The key differences: U.S. Bank Altitude Reserve has a $400 annual fee and $355 in annual benefits, while Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card has a $150 annual fee and $100 in annual benefits. The annual fee difference is $250.
Which has a lower annual fee, Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card or U.S. Bank Altitude Reserve?
The Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card has a lower annual fee at $150 compared to the U.S. Bank Altitude Reserve at $400. However, the U.S. Bank Altitude Reserve offers $355 in total annual benefits.
Is the U.S. Bank Altitude Reserve worth it compared to the Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card?
Yes, the U.S. Bank Altitude Reserve offers better value with -$45 net annual value compared to -$50 for the Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card. Even though it has a higher annual fee ($400 vs $150), the U.S. Bank Altitude Reserve provides more total benefits.
Amex vs U.S. Bank: which issuer is better?
For these specific cards, U.S. Bank's U.S. Bank Altitude Reserve offers better value with -$45 net annual value. Consider which issuer's broader ecosystem (transfer partners, redemption options) fits your needs.
Which card is better for travel?
The U.S. Bank Altitude Reserve is better for travel with $325 in annual travel benefits compared to $100 for the Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card.
Should I get the U.S. Bank Altitude Reserve?
If you're deciding between the Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card and U.S. Bank Altitude Reserve, the U.S. Bank Altitude Reserve is the better choice with -$45 net annual value. However, make sure you can use the key benefits to maximize value. Compare the full benefit breakdown to see which fits your spending better.