Delta SkyMiles Reserve vs Rakuten
Delta SkyMiles Reserve
$650/yr
5.5/10
VS
Rakuten
$0/yr
7.0/10
Quick Answer
Delta SkyMiles Reserve charges $650/yr with 1X base rewards. Rakuten charges no annual fee with 1X base rewards. Rakuten offers better overall value for most spenders when comparing fees, rewards, and benefits side by side.
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Winner by Category
Annual Fees
Rakuten
Lower annual fee ($650 vs $0)
Rewards Earning
Delta SkyMiles Reserve
3 earning categories
Benefits & Protection
Delta SkyMiles Reserve
0 benefits vs 0
Statement Credits
Delta SkyMiles Reserve
$360 in annual credits
Flexibility
Tie
Both cards have similar redemption flexibility
OUR PICK
Rakuten wins for most people
The $650 fee difference is hard to justify unless you maximize premium benefits.
Apply for RakutenPREMIUM 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 ReserveRewards Earning: Detailed Comparison
Delta SkyMiles Reserve
| Delta purchases | 3.0X |
| Everything else | 1.0X |
| 15% off award travel | 1.5X |
Rakuten
| Rakuten partner stores | 3.0X |
| Everything else | 1.0X |