The Delta SkyMiles Blue earns 2.0X on airlines, 2.0X on dining, 1.0X on all_purchases with a $0 annual fee.
Our Verdict
The Delta SkyMiles Blue is a points rewards card from American Express that carries a no annual fee on the visa network. At its core it earns 1.0X SkyMiles on everyday purchases, making it straightforward for cardholders who want predictable, consistent returns.
Points enthusiasts will find the most flexibility with the Delta SkyMiles Blue. SkyMiles can be redeemed for travel, gift cards, statement credits, or transferred to loyalty partners. Cardholders who maximize transfer partners often extract 1.5–2+ cents per point, well above face value.
With no annual fee, there is virtually no downside to keeping this card long-term even as a backup. It adds to your credit history and earns rewards at zero ongoing cost.
Apply for the Delta SkyMiles Blue →Rewards Structure
Fee Analysis
The Delta SkyMiles Blue has no annual fee, making it an excellent choice for anyone who wants rewards without a yearly cost. There is no break-even spending threshold to worry about — every dollar of rewards is pure value.
Where This Card Earns Bonus Rewards
| Category | MCC Code | Bonus Rate | Example Merchants |
|---|---|---|---|
| Airlines | 4511 Airlines, Air Carriers ( not listed elsewhere) | 2x | Aegean Airlines, Aer Lingus, Aeromexico, Air Arabia |
| Dining | 5812 Eating places and Restaurants | 2x | Acapulco Restaurant, Another Broken Egg, Applebee's, Applebee's - Albuquerque |
| Dining | 5813 Drinking Places (Alcoholic Beverages), Bars, Taverns, Cocktail lounges, Nightclubs and Discotheques | 2x | AMF Bowling Centers, Angry Orchard, Applebee's Bar, Bar Louie |
| Dining | 5814 Fast Food Restaurants | 2x | Arby's, Arby's - Albuquerque, Arby's - Anaheim, Arby's - Anchorage |
Click any MCC code or merchant name to see all cards that earn bonus rewards there.
Strengths and Weaknesses
Strengths
- No foreign transaction fees
- No annual fee
Weaknesses
- 1X base rate on non-bonus spending
How to Apply
You can apply for the Delta SkyMiles Blue directly through American Express's website. The application takes about 5 minutes and requires your Social Security number, annual income, and housing payment information. Most applicants receive an instant decision.
Before applying, check if you are pre-approved on American Express's website — a pre-approval uses a soft pull and does not affect your credit score.