SkyMiles (Medallion) vs MileagePlus (Premier): status compared (2026)
SkyMiles (Medallion) and MileagePlus (Premier) both offer elite status, but the fastest routes differ. Delta Air Lines offers a status match to Silver, Gold or Platinum (Diamond generally not a match target). United Airlines offers a status match to Silver, Gold, Platinum or 1K. If you want status fastest, both take similar effort — pick by which perks you'll use more.
| SkyMiles (Medallion) | MileagePlus (Premier) | |
|---|---|---|
| Type | airline | airline |
| Top tier | Diamond Medallion | Premier 1K |
| Status match | Silver, Gold or Platinum (Diamond generally not a match target) | Silver, Gold, Platinum or 1K |
| Status challenge | Silver, Gold or Platinum | Silver, Gold, Platinum or 1K |
| Match/challenge fee | Free | Free |
| Fastest card | Delta SkyMiles Reserve American Express Card ($650) | United Club Card (Chase) ($695) |
| Verified | 2026-08-15 | 2026-08-15 |
SkyMiles (Medallion)
Platinum Medallion is the sweet spot — unlimited complimentary first-class upgrades plus an annual Choice Benefit (companion cert or Sky Club passes) without Diamond's $28,000 spend.
All Delta Air Lines status routes →MileagePlus (Premier)
Premier 1K delivers Star Alliance Gold global lounge access, top upgrade priority (96-hour window), 280 PlusPoints, 3 free bags and Group 1 boarding — the most valuable non-invite status.
All United Airlines status routes →FAQ
- Is SkyMiles (Medallion) or MileagePlus (Premier) status easier to get?
- Delta Air Lines offers a status match to Silver, Gold or Platinum (Diamond generally not a match target). United Airlines offers a status match to Silver, Gold, Platinum or 1K.
- Which has better top-tier perks, Delta Air Lines or United Airlines?
- SkyMiles (Medallion): Platinum Medallion is the sweet spot — unlimited complimentary first-class upgrades plus an annual Choice Benefit (companion cert or Sky Club passes) without Diamond's $28,000 spend. MileagePlus (Premier): Premier 1K delivers Star Alliance Gold global lounge access, top upgrade priority (96-hour window), 280 PlusPoints, 3 free bags and Group 1 boarding — the most valuable non-invite status.
Comparison built from StatusKart records verified 2026-08-15 (Delta Air Lines) and 2026-08-15 (United Airlines). Rankings reflect speed and cost to status, never commission.