Hilton and American Express offer four co-branded credit cards designed for frequent travelers. The best choice depends on how much you spend and how often you use Hilton properties. While the lowest-fee card might seem appealing, the premium options often provide greater overall value through perks that offset annual fees. Here’s a breakdown to help you decide.
The Four Hilton Honors Cards: Ranked by Value
The Hilton portfolio includes three personal cards and one business card. Each has unique benefits, but two stand out as the most valuable: the Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card and the Hilton Honors American Express Surpass Card.
The Hilton Aspire Card: For High Spenders
The Hilton Aspire Card carries a $550 annual fee, making it the most expensive option. However, it delivers significant value for those who can maximize its benefits:
- 14x Points: Earn 14x points on eligible purchases at Hilton hotels and resorts.
- Diamond Status: Automatic Hilton Honors Diamond elite status.
- Resort Credits: Up to $400 in annual Hilton resort credits ($200 semi-annually).
- Flight Credit: Up to $200 in annual flight credits ($50 quarterly).
- CLEAR+ Credit: Up to $209 annual credit for CLEAR+ membership.
- Free Night Awards: Earn a free night annually, plus additional nights for spending $30,000 and $60,000 on the card.
- Emerald Executive Status: National Emerald Club Executive status.
These perks can easily exceed the annual fee if you frequently stay at Hilton resorts, travel by air, or use CLEAR. The free night awards alone can cover the fee, especially when redeemed at high-value properties.
The Hilton Surpass Card: Easy Justification
The Hilton Honors American Express Surpass Card has a $150 annual fee. Its benefits are less extensive than the Aspire Card, but still valuable:
- 12x Points: Earn 12x points on Hilton purchases.
- Gold Status: Automatic Hilton Honors Gold elite status.
- Diamond Status (with Spending): Earn Diamond status by spending $40,000 annually.
- Hilton Credits: Up to $200 in annual Hilton credits ($50 quarterly).
- Free Night Award (with Spending): Earn a free night by spending $15,000 annually.
- Emerald Executive Status: National Emerald Club Executive status.
If you stay at Hiltons at least once per quarter, the $200 credits will likely cover the annual fee. The Gold status is a strong benefit, and the free night award is achievable for moderate spenders.
The Hilton Business Card: A Solid Option, But Not Top Tier
The Hilton Honors American Express Business Card has a $195 annual fee and provides:
- 12x Points: Earn 12x points on Hilton purchases.
- 5x Points: Earn 5x points on eligible purchases up to $100,000, then 3x points.
- Gold Status: Automatic Hilton Honors Gold elite status.
- Diamond Status (with Spending): Earn Diamond status by spending $40,000 annually.
- Hilton Credits: Up to $240 in annual Hilton credits ($60 quarterly).
This card is worthwhile if you specifically need a business credit card, but the Surpass Card generally offers better value.
The Hilton Amex Card: The Basic Entry Point
The Hilton Honors American Express Card has no annual fee but offers limited perks:
- 7x Points: Earn 7x points on Hilton purchases.
- Silver Status: Automatic Hilton Honors Silver elite status.
- Gold Status (with Spending): Earn Gold status by spending $20,000 annually.
This card is a starting point but doesn’t provide the same value as the others.
How to Decide
If you’re new to Hilton Honors credit cards, the Aspire or Surpass card is the best first choice. The Aspire is ideal for high spenders who want maximum perks, while the Surpass is easier to justify with moderate spending. It’s possible to hold multiple cards and cycle through welcome bonuses over time.
Consider product changing after 12 months; you can often downgrade premium cards to avoid annual fees.
Ultimately, Hilton and American Express offer a range of options. Choose the card that aligns with your spending habits and travel preferences.
The most lucrative options remain the Hilton Aspire and Hilton Surpass Cards. Applying for both and maximizing benefits over time is a smart strategy.
