Delta SkyMiles has four Medallion tiers: Silver, Gold, Platinum, and Diamond. To earn 2027 status, members need $5,000, $10,000, $15,000, or $28,000 in Medallion Qualification Dollars (MQDs), respectively, during calendar year 2026. Each tier raises mileage earning and may improve upgrade and airport-service priority; Platinum and Diamond members can also choose additional benefits.
Delta’s four Medallion tiers at a glance
Delta uses MQDs as its qualification metric. The thresholds below apply to activity from January 1 through December 31, 2026, for 2027 Medallion status. MQDs reset each calendar year, and status earned is valid from the date it is earned through January 31, 2028. Delta’s 2026 qualification page has the current terms.
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| Tier | MQDs for 2027 status | Miles per eligible dollar | Choice Benefits for 2026 Medallion Year |
|---|---|---|---|
| Silver | $5,000 | 7 | Not offered |
| Gold | $10,000 | 8 | Not offered |
| Platinum | $15,000 | 9 | One selection |
| Diamond | $28,000 | 11 | Three selections |
The mileage rates and Choice Benefit counts are from Delta’s current Medallion benefits comparison and Choice Benefits information. Mileage rates are per eligible dollar of fare, excluding taxes and government-imposed fees, under Delta’s program terms. The table pairs 2027 qualification thresholds with benefits information for the 2026 Medallion Year; these are distinct status periods.
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How MQDs are earned
Qualifying spend on Delta-marketed tickets operated by Delta or a partner can earn MQDs based on ticket price, subject to Delta’s terms. Eligible Delta SkyMiles American Express cards may also provide MQDs through MQD Headstart and MQD Boost. Delta describes a $2,500 MQD Headstart per Medallion Qualification Year for eligible cards, while Boost depends on eligible card purchases. Card eligibility and conditions vary, so check Delta’s qualification rules and the issuer’s current card terms before counting on card-based MQDs.
#1 Best Overall
- Smooth & Effortless Mobility: Equipped with 360° spinner wheels that glide smoothly and silently across all surfaces. The ergonomic telescopic handle ensures easy maneuverability, making this luggage a must-have for hassle-free travel
- Spacious & Organized Storage: Designed with dual compartments, including an expandable section for extra packing space. The left side features a zippered divider with a mesh pocket for small essentials, while the right side includes an X-strap to keep clothes secure and wrinkle-free
- Durable & Scratch-Resistant: Made from high-quality ABS hard shell, this suitcase is impact-resistant, lightweight, and built to withstand travel wear and tear. The reinforced aluminum telescopic handle is sturdy and resistant to bending, ensuring long-lasting durability
- TSA-Approved Lock & Stylish Design: Features a TSA-certified combination lock for enhanced security and worry-free inspections. The sleek textured surface with horizontal stripes adds a modern, stylish touch while minimizing scratches
- Lightweight & Travel-Friendly: Meets most airline luggage size regulations. The lightweight build, top and side carry handles, and 3-level adjustable telescopic handle provide added convenience, making packing and transport effortless
What each tier changes
Silver
Silver is the entry Medallion tier. Delta lists complimentary upgrade eligibility, priority boarding, and baggage benefits. Eligibility is not a promise of an upgrade: availability and the applicable fare, route, and program rules affect whether one clears.
Gold
Gold increases the earning rate to 8 miles per eligible dollar and adds the Sky Priority service suite to the tier’s listed airport benefits. It also has higher upgrade priority than Silver, but upgrades remain subject to availability and Delta’s prioritization rules.
Rank #2
- CARRY-ON DESIGN: Best for 1-5 day trips without the hassle of checking luggage; measures 14.8 x 10 x 21.7 inches, including wheels
- DURABLE AND RELIABLE: Extra-thick hard shell with scratch-resistant finish guards against impact and rough handling
- EXPANDABLE: Increase packing space up to 25% for added flexibility and organization
- ORGANIZED INTERIOR: Keep essentials organized with an interior divider and three zippered pockets
- EFFORTLESS TRAVEL: Navigate with ease thanks to four multi-directional wheels, telescoping handle, and short lift handle
Platinum
Platinum earns 9 miles per eligible dollar, includes Sky Priority services, and has greater upgrade priority than the lower tiers. It also provides one Choice Benefit selection for the 2026 Medallion Year.
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Diamond earns 11 miles per eligible dollar and has the highest upgrade priority and priority boarding among Medallion members. It includes three Choice Benefit selections for the 2026 Medallion Year.
Rank #3
- Airline-approved Luggage: This 20-inch carry-on Luggage meets the overhead compartment size requirements of most airlines. The durable hardside luggage features TSA-approved locks and smooth double-ended zippers for secure and convenient travel. It has a volume of 35 liters and weighs only 6.83 lbs
- 20% Expandable, Packing More: Maximize travel luggage storage space with expandable features. Simply unzip the expandable zipper to increase capacity from 35L to 42L, adding 20% more packing space when you need it. Dual main compartments feature a secure buckle compression system to keep clothes neatly organized, while convenient storage pockets hold small items
- Excellent Craftsmanship: Crafted from high-quality ABS composite materials, this lightweight carry-on luggage offers exceptional strength and flexibility. Its scratch-resistant surface maintains a like-new appearance trip after trip. Rigorously tested for impact resistance, it's built to protect your belongings under tough travel conditions
- Superior Maneuverability: Equipped with silent 360 spinner wheels, this travel luggage glides effortlessly through crowded airports and uneven streets. The 4-level adjustable aluminum handle offers a comfortable grip, while top and side silicone handles make lifting this carry-on suitcase easy and ergonomic
- Durable Construction and Support: Designed with durability in mind, our carry on luggage features reliable construction for all essential components, including the shell, handles, wheels, locks, and zippers. Travel confidently with quality materials and craftsmanship built to last
Delta’s benefits comparison describes the tier privileges. Complimentary upgrade eligibility and priority do not guarantee a seat; inventory and program rules determine the outcome.
Platinum and Diamond Choice Benefits
Choice Benefits are selections, not an automatic package. Delta’s menu for the 2026 Medallion Year includes options such as upgrade certificates, bonus miles, gifting Silver or Gold status, MQD Accelerators for the next qualification year, travel vouchers, Delta Vacations savings, Wheels Up flight credits, a Diamond Sky Club membership option, a statement credit for eligible cardmembers, Starbucks Stars, and a sustainable aviation fuel contribution. Some options consume multiple selections or have additional restrictions; review the current Choice Benefits terms before choosing.
Rank #4
- Airline-Approved & Expandable Design: Our carry on luggage 22x14x9 airline approved and meets most airline overhead bin requirements, saving you time and baggage fees. The expandable zipper instantly increases capacity from 33 liters to 41 liters, offering flexible packing for short trips, business travel, or leisure
- Effortless 360° Maneuverability: The carry-on luggage is equipped with silent, precision-engineered 360° spinner wheels, allowing you to glide smoothly through airports and city streets. The sturdy 4-stage aluminum telescopic handle delivers a wobble-free and comfortable grip, while top and side handles ensure easy lifting for every traveler
- Durable & Scratch-Resistant Exterior: Constructed with a high-quality ABS composite hard shell, this lightweight carry on suitcase weighs just 6.94 pounds and is rigorously tested for impact resistance. The scratch-resistant surface keeps its sleek appearance, and the integrated TSA-approved lock ensures secure and convenient travel
- Optimized & Organized Interior: The carry on luggage with wheels features a spacious main compartment, paired with multiple internal pockets for efficient organization. Tear-resistant lining and cross-straps keep everything neatly in place, whether packing for a family vacation or a business trip
- Reliable Lifetime Support: We stand behind the durability of every component. Our commitment includes dependable support for the shell, handles, wheels, locks, and zippers. Travel confidently, knowing we ensure your luggage performs reliably, trip after trip
| Tier | Examples listed for the 2026 Medallion Year |
|---|---|
| Platinum | 35,000 bonus miles; four regional upgrade certificates; a $350 Delta travel voucher; or a $1,000 MQD Accelerator |
| Diamond | 40,000 bonus miles; upgrade certificate combinations; a $550 Delta travel voucher; a $2,000 MQD Accelerator; or Sky Club membership options requiring two or three selections |
These are examples from Delta’s menu, not benefits every member receives. The value of a selection depends on whether its terms fit the member’s travel and whether the member can use it. For the 2026 Medallion Year, selections must be made in the Delta app by January 31, 2027, according to Delta’s Choice Benefits page.
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There is no universal best tier. The additional MQDs required for a higher level are most useful to a traveler who can make practical use of its incremental earning rate, airport services, upgrade priority, or Choice Benefits. Consider these factors before directing extra spending toward status:
Best Value
- Airline-Approved Carry-On Size: 22x14x9 carry on luggage meets the overhead compartment requirements of most airlines, making it a perfect travel companion for air, train, and bus travel. 20 inch carry on luggage measuring 22" x 15.16" x 9.65”, compact case measuring 19.29" x 14.33" x 9.65” ensure easy handling and seamless boarding, making your journey stress-free and convenient
- Expand Your Packing Capacity by 24%: Luggage designed to maximize your packing efficiency. The luggage features an expandable zipper that increases capacity from 33L to 41L. Carry on suitcase provides 8L more space for travel essentials, last-minute items or additional souvenirs
- Effortless Maneuverability: Carry on luggage 22x14x9 airline approved glide through crowded terminals with ease using the 360° spinner wheels. Suitcases with wheels smooth-rolling through tight spaces or rough surfaces effortlessly. Carry on luggage with sturdy 3-stage telescopic handle ensures a wobble-free experience as you roll your luggage in any direction
- Durable and Lightweight Construction: At just 6.94 lbs carry on bag is light enough for easy lifting and maneuvering. Carryon suitcase built with a robust ABS hardshell is both lightweight and durable, designed to withstand the rigors of travel. Carry on luggage with wheels offers impact resistance, scratch resistance, and reliable protection for your belongings, keeping your luggage looking sharp trip after trip
- Well-Organized Interior for Efficient Packing: Keep your belongings organized with the spacious interior, featuring dual compartments with a secure buckle compression system and practical storage pockets. Whether for business or leisure, this suitcase offers the organization you need to keep everything in place throughout your trip
- Eligible spend: Compare your likely MQDs from qualifying activity with the next threshold, rather than assuming total travel spending qualifies dollar for dollar.
- Routes and upgrade availability: Priority can matter only when an upgrade is available on the routes you fly; it does not assure one.
- Benefit fit: Platinum and Diamond selections have value only if you can use the chosen certificates, credits, status gifts, or other options within their terms.
- Card contribution: If using an eligible Delta SkyMiles American Express card to earn MQDs, verify current eligibility, purchase rules, and terms directly with Delta and the issuer.
Delta also lists tier-related CLEAR+ pricing effective June 1, 2026. Because this is a dated ancillary perk rather than a core qualification difference, check Delta’s benefit details for the applicable current rate and terms.
Quick Recap
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