Head to head

Blue Cash Preferred Card from American Express vs. Hilton Honors American Express Card

On the criteria below, Hilton Honors American Express Card wins 4 of 4. The verdict depends on which criteria matter to you.

Blue Cash Preferred Card from American Express

Amex

Hilton Honors American Express Card

Amex

At a glance

Hilton Honors American Express Card wins 4 of 4 criteria here, making it the stronger all-rounder.

Hilton Honors American Express Card leads on first-year math, annual fee, earning ceiling, and foreign transactions, while Blue Cash Preferred Card from American Express only ties the rest.

Pick the Hilton Honors American Express Card if year-one math is your priority; take the Hilton Honors American Express Card if you want a cheaper card to keep long-term.

Who wins what

0 vs 4
  • First-year math Hilton Honors American Express Card

    Hilton Honors American Express Card wins on bonus value minus annual fee.

  • Annual fee Hilton Honors American Express Card

    Hilton Honors American Express Card is $95 cheaper to keep.

  • Earning ceiling Hilton Honors American Express Card

    Hilton Honors American Express Card earns more on its best category (7× vs 6×).

  • Foreign transactions Hilton Honors American Express Card

    Hilton Honors American Express Card has a lower (or zero) foreign transaction fee.

By the numbers

Annual fee
$95
Free
Welcome offer (typical value)
$300
$400
First-year net
+$205
+$400
Peak earning rate
Top categories
U.S. Supermarkets, Streaming, Transit
Hotels Resorts, Dining, U.S. Supermarkets
Lounge access
No
No
Travel insurance
Yes
Yes
Elite status
No
Yes
Foreign transaction fee
2.70%
None
Reward currency
Cashback
Hilton Honors

Welcome-offer dollar values use each program's typical-tier valuation from our signup bonus calculator. See the methodology page for sourcing details.