Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card vs IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card

This comparison aims to help you decide between the Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card and the IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card. Both cards offer unique benefits suited for different types of travelers and spending habits.

Card Overviews

Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card

The Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card is designed for travelers who frequently stay at Hilton properties. With an attractive points system and valuable perks, this card is ideal for those who want to maximize their rewards at Hilton Hotels & Resorts.

IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card

The IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card caters to loyal IHG customers, offering robust rewards and benefits for stays at IHG Hotels & Resorts. This card is perfect for individuals who often travel and stay at various IHG brands.

Detailed Feature Comparison

Rewards Highlights

Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card Rewards

• Earn 130,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points after you spend $3,000 in purchases in the first 6 months.
• Earn 12X Hilton Honors Bonus Points for each dollar of eligible purchases charged on your Card directly with a hotel or resort within the Hilton portfolio.
• Earn 6X Points for each dollar of purchases on your Card at U.S. restaurants, at U.S. supermarkets, and at U.S. gas stations.
• Earn 4X Points for each dollar on U.S. Online Retail Purchases.
• Earn 3X Points for all other eligible purchases on your Card.

IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card Rewards

• Earn 140,000 Bonus Points after spending $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months.
• Earn up to 26 total points per $1 spent when you stay at IHG Hotels & Resorts.
• Earn 5 points per $1 spent on purchases on travel, at gas stations, and restaurants.
• Earn 3 points per $1 spent on all other purchases.

Pros and Cons

Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card

• Pros:
  • Generous welcome bonus.
  • High rewards rate at Hilton properties.
  • Includes complimentary Gold Status.
  • Annual statement credits.
• Cons:
  • Higher annual fee compared to IHG card.
  • Limited rewards outside Hilton properties.

IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card

• Pros:
  • Lower annual fee.
  • Flexible rewards structure across multiple brands.
  • Includes Anniversary Free Night benefit.
  • Global Entry or TSA PreCheck® credit.
• Cons:
  • Lower welcome bonus compared to Hilton card.
  • Less focus on restaurant and retail rewards.

Who Should Consider Which Card?

The Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card is best for users who frequently stay at Hilton properties and want to maximize their hotel rewards and benefits. It's ideal for those who can take advantage of the higher rewards rates at Hilton locations and enjoy complimentary status upgrades.

The IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card is perfect for travelers who stay at various IHG hotels and want a lower annual fee with valuable perks like a free night and travel credits. This card benefits users who seek flexibility in their hotel choices and rewards structure.

Conclusion

In summary, both the Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card and the IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card offer compelling benefits. Your decision should be based on your travel habits, loyalty to hotel brands, and how you prefer to earn and redeem rewards. Consider your individual needs and spending patterns to choose the card that best aligns with your financial goals.

“Disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author's alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.”