Chase Ritz-Carlton Card vs. Amex Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant: Which Marriott Co-Branded Card is Best for You?

Choosing between the Chase Ritz-Carlton Card and the Amex Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant Card can be a tough decision for frequent Marriott travelers. Both cards offer incredible benefits but come with limitations, as Marriott enforces strict rules preventing cardholders from receiving welcome bonuses on both cards at the same time. However, savvy strategies can allow you to maximize the perks of both cards. Let’s dive into the details.

More about Marriott Status Benefit: The Ultimate Guide to the Marriott Bonvoy Program: Unlocking the Best Travel Experiences

Chase Ritz-Carlton Card Benefits

Though no longer directly available for new applications, the Chase Ritz-Carlton Card remains a highly lucrative option for Marriott loyalists. You can obtain it by upgrading from the Chase Boundless Card after one year. Key benefits include:

1. Earning Rates:
   • 6x Points: Marriott hotel stays.
   • 3x Points: Dining, flights, and car rentals.
   • 2x Points: All other purchases.
2. Annual Free Night:
   • After the second year, cardholders receive a Free Night Award valid for stays at Marriott properties requiring up to 85,000 points.
3. Travel Credits:
   • $300 Airline Fee Credit: Covers incidental expenses like baggage fees or seat upgrades.
   • $100 Ritz-Carlton Credit: Available on stays of two or more consecutive nights.
4. Priority Pass Select Membership:
   • Unlimited access to airport lounges worldwide for the primary cardholder and authorized users.
5. Elite Status and Perks:
   • Complimentary Marriott Gold Elite status (can be upgraded to Platinum with $75,000 annual spending).
   • 15 Elite Night Credits to help you reach higher Marriott status tiers.
6. Ritz-Carlton Club Level Upgrade Certificates:
   • Three certificates per year for club-level upgrades on paid Ritz-Carlton stays.
7. Additional Benefits:
   • Global Entry/TSA PreCheck Credit.
   • No additional fee for authorized users, who also receive lounge access.
   • Metal card design for a premium feel.

Amex Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant Card Benefits

The Amex Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant Card stands out with its exceptional welcome bonus and effortless Platinum Elite status. Here are the key features:

1. Welcome Bonus:
   • Earn 185,000 Marriott points after spending $6,000 in the first three months. This bonus is worth approximately $1,295, making it one of the best in the market.
2. Earning Rates:
   • 6x Points: Marriott hotel stays.
   • 3x Points: Dining and airfare.
   • 2x Points: All other purchases.
3. Annual Free Night:
   • Receive a Free Night Award for stays at Marriott properties requiring up to 85,000 points, starting in the second year.
4. Dining Credit:
   • $25 Monthly Dining Credit: Valid at restaurants worldwide, including popular chains and fine dining establishments. Total annual value: $300.
5. Elite Status and Perks:
   • Complimentary Marriott Platinum Elite status, with benefits like suite upgrades, free breakfast, and late checkout.
   • 25 Elite Night Credits annually, making it easier to reach Titanium Elite.
6. Luxury Hotel Benefits:
   • $100 On-Property Credit: Available on qualifying stays at Ritz-Carlton and St. Regis properties.
7. Priority Pass Select Membership:
   • Lounge access for the cardholder and up to two guests.

Which Card Offers More Value?

Key Considerations for Choosing a Card

• Choose Chase Ritz-Carlton Card if:
  • You’re a long-term Marriott enthusiast willing to put in the effort to upgrade from the Boundless Card.
  • You value low net annual fees after credits and want exclusive perks like club-level upgrade certificates.
  • You’re okay with earning Gold Elite status but are willing to spend $75,000 annually to reach Platinum.
• Choose Amex Bonvoy Brilliant if:
  • You prioritize ease of maintaining Platinum Elite status without additional spending.
  • The welcome bonus of 185,000 points aligns with your immediate travel goals.
  • You appreciate the flexibility of a monthly dining credit for consistent value.

Maximizing Both Cards

For those who don’t want to choose, here’s how you can strategically hold both cards:

1. Step 1: Apply for the Amex Bonvoy Brilliant first. Use the card to meet the welcome bonus spending requirement (ideally in the last month of the 90-day window to buy time).
2. Step 2: Wait 91 days after the Amex approval and then apply for the Chase Boundless Card.
3. Step 3: After holding the Boundless Card for one year, upgrade to the Ritz-Carlton Card.
4. Step 4: Repeat the process every two years to cycle through both cards and maximize rewards.

Final Verdict

Both cards offer incredible value for Marriott enthusiasts, but each caters to slightly different priorities. The Chase Ritz-Carlton Card is perfect for travelers seeking high-value perks at a lower net cost, while the Amex Bonvoy Brilliant shines for those who want immediate Platinum Elite benefits and a lucrative welcome bonus.

For savvy travelers, the best approach might be to strategically hold both cards using the method outlined above. After all, why choose when you can have the best of both worlds?