By Bryce Casson, Founder · Cardocrat · Updated June 2026
The short answer: American Express transfers Membership Rewards to Hilton Honors at 1 to 2, doubling your point count, but Hilton points are worth only about half a cent each, so the math roughly nets to a cent per Membership Rewards point. That is a mediocre use of a premium currency, worth it only for a specific high-value Hilton stay.
The 1-to-2 ratio in context
One Membership Rewards point becomes two Hilton points, which looks generous until you remember Hilton points are worth only around half a cent each. Two Hilton points at half a cent is about a cent of value per Membership Rewards point, near the floor for a currency that can be worth several cents transferred to an airline. The big multiplier just offsets a weak currency. See what points are worth.
When it can make sense
The transfer works when you have targeted a Hilton property where the cash rate is high relative to the points price, so your Hilton points punch above half a cent, and a fifth-night-free benefit can help. In that narrow case, the 1-to-2 transfer can deliver solid value. Otherwise, Membership Rewards are better aimed at airline partners. See our Hilton Honors guide.
The opportunity cost
Every Membership Rewards point sent to Hilton is one not transferred to ANA, Virgin Atlantic, or Flying Blue for a premium-cabin award worth several cents. So reserve Hilton transfers for a specific, high-value stay you have priced out, and keep the bulk of your Membership Rewards for higher-ceiling airline redemptions. See transferable points explained.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Amex to Hilton transfer ratio?
One Membership Rewards point to two Hilton Honors points. The large multiplier reflects that Hilton points are worth only about half a cent each, so the value nets to roughly a cent per Membership Rewards point.
Is transferring Amex to Hilton worth it?
Only for a specific high-value Hilton stay where the cash rate is high relative to the points price. As a general move, it nets near the floor value and wastes the airline-transfer potential of Membership Rewards.
What is a better use of Amex points than Hilton?
Transfers to airline partners like ANA, Virgin Atlantic, or Flying Blue for premium-cabin awards worth several cents per point. Save Hilton transfers for a targeted, high-value stay.
Bryce Casson, Founder of Cardocrat. Every card is ranked by what it actually returns, with all points valued at a flat 1 cent and offers verified against issuer sources. About the author.
