Amex Membership Rewards vs Citi ThankYou Points

By Bryce Casson, Founder · Cardocrat · Updated June 2026
The short answer: Amex has the broadest partner network and premium perks; Citi ThankYou is underrated, with standout partners like Turkish Airlines and a strong no-fee earner in the Double Cash. Citi often gives more value per dollar of annual fee.

Partners and sweet spots

Amex reaches more than 20 partners, the widest network around. Citi has fewer but includes Turkish Miles and Smiles, one of the best programs for booking United and Star Alliance flights cheaply, plus Avianca and others. For specific sweet spots, Citi can outshine Amex.

Earning and cost

Citi pairs the no-fee Double Cash, an effective 2 percent that converts to transferable points with a Strata Premier, with the mid-fee Strata Premier hub, a low-cost path to transferable points. Amex leans on the Gold and Platinum, which earn more in categories but cost more in fees.

Which to choose

Pick Amex for breadth, premium perks, and category earning. Pick Citi for strong transfer value at low cost, especially the Double Cash plus Strata Premier stack. See the ecosystem ranking to compare.

Frequently asked questions

Is Citi ThankYou as good as Amex Membership Rewards?
For value per dollar of fee, often yes. Citi has fewer partners but includes standouts like Turkish Airlines, and the Double Cash plus Strata Premier is a cheap way into transferable points.

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Bryce Casson

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.