Question 1

Which is better, American Express Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant or U.S. Bank Altitude Reserve?

Accepted Answer

The U.S. Bank Altitude Reserve is better with -$45 net annual value compared to the American Express Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant at -$320. The U.S. Bank Altitude Reserve wins by $275/year.

Question 2

What's the difference between American Express Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant and U.S. Bank Altitude Reserve?

Accepted Answer

The key differences: American Express Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant has a $650 annual fee and $355 in annual benefits, while U.S. Bank Altitude Reserve has a $400 annual fee and $330 in annual benefits. The annual fee difference is $250.

Question 3

Which has a lower annual fee, American Express Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant or U.S. Bank Altitude Reserve?

Accepted Answer

The U.S. Bank Altitude Reserve has a lower annual fee at $400 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 U.S. Bank Altitude Reserve worth it compared to the American Express Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant?

Accepted Answer

Yes, the U.S. Bank Altitude Reserve offers better value with -$45 net annual value compared to -$320 for the American Express Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant. It also has a lower annual fee.

Question 5

Amex vs U.S. Bank: which issuer is better?

Accepted Answer

For these specific cards, U.S. Bank's U.S. Bank Altitude Reserve offers better value with -$45 net annual value. Consider which issuer's broader ecosystem (transfer partners, redemption options) fits your needs.

Question 6

Which card is better for travel?

Accepted Answer

The U.S. Bank Altitude Reserve is better for travel with $325 in annual travel benefits compared to $0 for the American Express Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant.

Question 7

Should I get the U.S. Bank Altitude Reserve?

Accepted Answer

If you're deciding between the American Express Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant and U.S. Bank Altitude Reserve, the U.S. Bank Altitude Reserve is the better choice with -$45 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	U.S. BANK ALTITUDE RESERVE
🌎Travel	—	$325
🍽️Food & Dining	$300	—
Hotel Free Night Certificates	Marriott 85k Free Night	—
Lounge Access	—	Priority Pass Select (Limited Visits)
Total credits	$330	$355
Annual fee	$650	$400
Net value	-$320	-$45

American Express Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant or U.S. Bank Altitude Reserve?

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