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IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card vs Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card
This comparison aims to help users decide between the IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card and the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card. Both cards offer unique rewards and benefits tailored to different types of travelers and spenders.
Card Overviews
IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card
The IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card is designed for frequent travelers who prefer staying at IHG Hotels & Resorts. With a reasonable annual fee, this card provides significant rewards and benefits, including bonus points, free night awards, and elite status within the IHG loyalty program.
Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card
The Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card caters to those who often stay at Marriott properties. With a higher annual fee, it offers a range of premium benefits, including generous bonus points, dining credits, and elite status advantages, making it ideal for luxury travelers and loyal Marriott customers.
Detailed Feature Comparison
| Feature | IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card | Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Fee | $99 | $650 |
| Welcome Bonus | 140,000 Bonus Points | 185,000 Marriott Bonvoy® Bonus Points |
| Rewards Structure | Up to 26 points per $1 at IHG hotels, 5 points on travel, gas, and restaurants, 3 points on all other purchases | 6X at Marriott hotels, 3X at restaurants and flights, 2X on all other purchases |
| Foreign Transaction Fee | None | None |
| Other Fees | N/A | N/A |
| Additional Benefits | Anniversary Free Night, Automatic Platinum Elite status, Global Entry/TSA PreCheck credit | $300 Dining Credit, Free Night Award, Property Credit, Lounge Access, Cell Phone Protection |
Rewards Highlights
IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card
- Earn 140,000 Bonus Points after spending $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening
- 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
Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card
- Earn 6X Marriott Bonvoy® points for each dollar of eligible purchases at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy®
- Earn 3X Marriott Bonvoy® points at restaurants worldwide and on flights booked directly with airlines
- Earn 2X Marriott Bonvoy® points on all other eligible purchases made on the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card
Pros and Cons
IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card
- Pros: Lower annual fee, significant bonus points, automatic elite status, anniversary free night.
- Cons: Limited rewards outside IHG properties, fewer luxury benefits.
Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card
- Pros: High bonus points, extensive luxury benefits, dining credits, and elite night credits.
- Cons: High annual fee, requires higher spending to maximize benefits.
Who Should Consider Which Card?
The IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card is ideal for budget-conscious travelers who frequently stay at IHG hotels and want to maximize points on their stays without incurring a high annual fee. In contrast, the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card is better suited for travelers who value luxury benefits, dining credits, and high earning potential at Marriott properties, and who are willing to pay a premium for those perks.
Conclusion
Choosing between the IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card and the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card ultimately depends on your individual needs and travel patterns. Consider your spending habits, preferred hotel chains, and the types of rewards and benefits that matter most to you before making a decision.