Chase Ultimate Rewards vs Amex Membership Rewards

By Bryce Casson, Founder · Cardocrat · Updated June 2026
The short answer: Both are top transferable-points programs. Chase has a shorter but elite partner list anchored by World of Hyatt and is easier to start under 5/24; Amex has the broadest partner network and elite everyday earning on the Gold. Many people end up with both.

Transfer partners

Chase Ultimate Rewards transfers to a focused set of partners, with World of Hyatt the standout for outsized hotel value, plus United, Southwest, and others. Amex Membership Rewards has the widest network of any program, more than 20 airline and hotel partners, including several no other bank reaches. For maximum flexibility Amex wins on breadth; for Hyatt value, Chase is hard to beat.

Earning and cards

Amex Gold earns 4x at restaurants and US supermarkets, among the best everyday rates anywhere, and the Platinum layers on travel perks. Chase earns through the no-fee Freedom cards with a Sapphire as the transfer hub. Both let cheap no-fee earners feed a premium hub, and Chase is shaped by the 5/24 rule.

Which to choose first

If you are under 5/24 and want a clean path to premium travel, start with Chase and a Sapphire. If you spend heavily on dining and groceries and want the broadest transfer options, Amex and the Gold are excellent. Compare both in our ecosystem ranking.

Frequently asked questions

Is Chase Ultimate Rewards or Amex Membership Rewards better?
Neither is strictly better. Chase has elite partners like Hyatt and is easier to start under 5/24; Amex has more partners and stronger everyday earning. Many people hold both.
Can I transfer Chase points to Amex or vice versa?
No. You cannot move points between bank programs. Each transfers only to its own airline and hotel partners.

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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.