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Delta SkyMiles Blue vs Delta SkyMiles Reserve

Delta SkyMiles Blue

Delta SkyMiles Blue

$0/yr
7.0/10
VS
Delta SkyMiles Reserve

Delta SkyMiles Reserve

$650/yr
5.5/10
Quick Answer

Delta SkyMiles Blue charges no annual fee with 1X base rewards. Delta SkyMiles Reserve charges $650/yr with 1X base rewards. Delta SkyMiles Blue offers better overall value for most spenders when comparing fees, rewards, and benefits side by side.

Apply for Delta SkyMiles Blue →
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Apply for Delta SkyMiles Reserve →
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Category
Delta SkyMiles Blue
Delta SkyMiles Reserve
Annual Fee
$0 ✓
$650
Base Earning Rate
1.0X
1.0X
Signup Bonus
None
None
Foreign Transaction Fee
$0
$0
Card Network
N/A
N/A
Reward Type
Points
Points

Winner by Category

Annual Fees

Delta SkyMiles Blue
Lower annual fee ($0 vs $650)

Rewards Earning

Delta SkyMiles Blue
3 earning categories

Benefits & Protection

Delta SkyMiles Blue
0 benefits vs 0

Statement Credits

Delta SkyMiles Reserve
$360 in annual credits

Flexibility

Tie
Both cards have similar redemption flexibility
OUR PICK

Delta SkyMiles Blue wins for most people

The $650 fee difference is hard to justify unless you maximize premium benefits.

Apply for Delta SkyMiles Blue
PREMIUM PICK

Delta SkyMiles Reserve wins for heavy spenders

If you can offset the higher fee with credits and perks, this card delivers more value.

Apply for Delta SkyMiles Reserve

Rewards Earning: Detailed Comparison

Delta SkyMiles Blue

Delta purchases2.0X
Dining (including takeout & delivery)2.0X
Everything else1.0X

Delta SkyMiles Reserve

Delta purchases3.0X
Everything else1.0X
15% off award travel1.5X
Read Delta SkyMiles Blue Review →Read Delta SkyMiles Reserve Review →