Head to head

Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card vs. Chase Sapphire Preferred

Even split across the criteria below. Pick the one whose strengths match how you'll actually use it.

Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card

Amex

Chase Sapphire Preferred

Chase

At a glance

Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card and Chase Sapphire Preferred split the criteria evenly. Neither is the obvious all-rounder; the right pick depends on which dimensions matter to you.

Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card wins on earning ceiling and lounge access; Chase Sapphire Preferred wins on first-year math and annual fee.

Pick the Chase Sapphire Preferred if year-one math is your priority; take the Chase Sapphire Preferred if you want a cheaper card to keep long-term.

Who wins what

2 vs 2
  • First-year math Chase Sapphire Preferred

    Chase Sapphire Preferred wins on bonus value minus annual fee.

  • Annual fee Chase Sapphire Preferred

    Chase Sapphire Preferred is $455 cheaper to keep.

  • Earning ceiling Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card

    Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card earns more on its best category (14× vs 5×).

  • Lounge access Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card

    Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card includes lounge access; the other doesn't.

By the numbers

Annual fee
$550
$95
Welcome offer (typical value)
$750
$1,275
First-year net
+$200
+$1,180
Peak earning rate
14×
Top categories
Hotels Resorts, Airfare, Car Rentals
Chase Travel Portal, Dining, Travel
Lounge access
priority-pass
No
Travel insurance
Yes
Yes
Elite status
Yes
No
Foreign transaction fee
None
None
Reward currency
Hilton Honors
Chase Ultimate Rewards

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