Head to head

Hilton Honors American Express Surpass Card vs. United Quest Card

On the criteria below, Hilton Honors American Express Surpass Card wins 2 of 3. The verdict depends on which criteria matter to you.

Hilton Honors American Express Surpass Card

Amex

United Quest Card

Chase

At a glance

Hilton Honors American Express Surpass Card wins 2 of 3 criteria here, making it the stronger all-rounder.

Hilton Honors American Express Surpass Card wins on annual fee and earning ceiling; United Quest Card wins on first-year math.

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

Who wins what

2 vs 1
  • First-year math United Quest Card

    United Quest Card wins on bonus value minus annual fee.

  • Annual fee Hilton Honors American Express Surpass Card

    Hilton Honors American Express Surpass Card is $200 cheaper to keep.

  • Earning ceiling Hilton Honors American Express Surpass Card

    Hilton Honors American Express Surpass Card earns more on its best category (12× vs 10×).

By the numbers

Annual fee
$150
$350
Welcome offer (typical value)
$650
$910
First-year net
+$500
+$560
Peak earning rate
12×
10×
Top categories
Hotels Resorts, Dining, U.S. Supermarkets
Airfare, Travel, Hotels Resorts
Lounge access
No
No
Travel insurance
Yes
Yes
Elite status
Yes
No
Foreign transaction fee
None
None
Reward currency
Hilton Honors
United MileagePlus

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