Question 1

Which is better, American Express Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant or The Ritz-Carlton Credit Card?

Accepted Answer

The Ritz-Carlton Credit Card is better with -$120 net annual value compared to the American Express Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant at -$320. The Ritz-Carlton Credit Card wins by $200/year.

Question 2

What's the difference between American Express Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant and The Ritz-Carlton Credit Card?

Accepted Answer

The key differences: American Express Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant has a $650 annual fee and $330 in annual benefits, while The Ritz-Carlton Credit Card has a $450 annual fee and $330 in annual benefits. The annual fee difference is $200.

Question 3

Which has a lower annual fee, American Express Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant or The Ritz-Carlton Credit Card?

Accepted Answer

The Ritz-Carlton Credit Card has a lower annual fee at $450 compared to the American Express Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant at $650. However, the American Express Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant offers $330 in total annual benefits.

Question 4

Is the Ritz-Carlton Credit Card worth it compared to the American Express Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant?

Accepted Answer

Yes, the Ritz-Carlton Credit Card offers better value with -$120 net annual value compared to -$320 for the American Express Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant. It also has a lower annual fee.

Question 5

Amex vs Chase: which issuer is better?

Accepted Answer

For these specific cards, Chase's The Ritz-Carlton Credit Card offers better value with -$120 net annual value. Consider which issuer's broader ecosystem (transfer partners, redemption options) fits your needs.

Question 6

Which card is better for food_and_dining?

Accepted Answer

The American Express Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant is better for food_and_dining with $300 in annual food_and_dining benefits compared to $0 for the Ritz-Carlton Credit Card.

Question 7

Should I get the Ritz-Carlton Credit Card?

Accepted Answer

If you're deciding between the American Express Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant and The Ritz-Carlton Credit Card, the Ritz-Carlton Credit Card is the better choice with -$120 net annual value. However, make sure you can use the key benefits to maximize value. Compare the full benefit breakdown to see which fits your spending better.

CATEGORY	MARRIOTT BONVOY BRILLIANT	THE RITZ-CARLTON CREDIT CARD
🍽️Food & Dining	$300	—
🌎Travel	—	$300
Hotel Free Night Certificates	Marriott 85k Free Night	Marriott 85k Free Night
Lounge Access	—	Chase Sapphire Lounge Access Priority Pass Select (No Restaurants)
Total credits	$330	$330
Annual fee	$650	$450
Net value	-$320	-$120

American Express Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant or The Ritz-Carlton Credit Card?

Where to use each card

Frequently asked questions