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Program Comparison

Delta SkyMiles vs Southwest Rapid Rewards

A detailed comparison of Delta SkyMiles and Southwest Rapid Rewards to help you decide which loyalty program is the best fit for your travel needs.

Delta SkyMiles

Delta Air Lines

Southwest Rapid Rewards

Southwest Airlines

SkyTeam
Alliance
None
miles
Currency
points
5 base miles per $1 on Main Cabin+ fares. Elite bonuses: Silver +2, Gold +3, Platinum +4, Diamond +6 miles per $1. Basic Economy does not earn miles
Earn Rate
Business Select 14 pts/$, Anytime 10 pts/$, Wanna Get Away Plus 6 pts/$, Wanna Get Away 2 pts/$. A-List +25% bonus, A-List Preferred +100% bonus
1.1¢ per mile
Avg Value
1.4¢ per point
Silver Medallion, Gold Medallion, Platinum Medallion, Diamond Medallion
Elite Tiers
A-List, A-List Preferred
Miles never expire as long as the account is active and in good standing
Expiration
Points do not expire as long as the account is active and in good standing
Amex Membership Rewards, Marriott Bonvoy
Transfer Partners
Chase Ultimate Rewards (incoming only)
Travelers in Delta hub cities (ATL, MSP, DTW, SEA, SLC, JFK, LAX, BOS)
Best For
Budget-conscious domestic travelers who value flexibility, free checked bags, and no change fees

Choose Delta SkyMiles if you...

Travelers in Delta hub cities (ATL, MSP, DTW, SEA, SLC, JFK, LAX, BOS). Delta Air Lines' loyalty program with MQD-only elite qualification. Miles never expire and the domestic network is one of the strongest in the US.

Choose Southwest Rapid Rewards if you...

Budget-conscious domestic travelers who value flexibility, free checked bags, and no change fees. Southwest Airlines' loyalty program with no blackout dates, no change fees, and revenue-based earning. Companion Pass available at 135,000 qualifying points or 100 flights.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is better, Delta SkyMiles or Southwest Rapid Rewards?

It depends on your travel patterns. Delta SkyMiles is best for travelers in delta hub cities (atl, msp, dtw, sea, slc, jfk, lax, bos). Southwest Rapid Rewards is best for budget-conscious domestic travelers who value flexibility, free checked bags, and no change fees. Consider your home airport, preferred destinations, and how often you travel when choosing.

Do Delta SkyMiles or Southwest Rapid Rewards miles expire?

Delta SkyMiles: Miles never expire as long as the account is active and in good standing. Southwest Rapid Rewards: Points do not expire as long as the account is active and in good standing.

Can I transfer points between Delta SkyMiles and Southwest Rapid Rewards?

There is no direct transfer relationship between Delta SkyMiles and Southwest Rapid Rewards. You would need to earn points separately in each program.

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