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Ranking Credit Cards by Transfer Partner Power

Determining the best credit cards based on the strength and diversity of their transfer partners requires a comprehensive look at several factors. These include the number of transfer partners, the quality of those partners, the transfer ratios, the flexibility in redeeming points, and the overall value derived from the program. Here's a detailed ranking of the top programs, considering these elements:

1. American Express Membership Rewards

American Express Membership Rewards consistently ranks at the top due to its extensive and high-quality transfer partner network. With over 20 airline and hotel partners, Amex provides a wide range of options for travelers. The program's strengths include:

Number of Transfer Partners: Amex boasts the most extensive list, with over 20 airline partners and a few hotel partners, providing a wide array of choices for different travel needs.
Quality of Transfer Partners: The program includes premium airlines such as Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer, ANA Mileage Club, Emirates Skywards, and Delta SkyMiles. These partners offer excellent redemption opportunities for international and domestic travel. Hotel partners like Marriott Bonvoy and Hilton Honors also provide valuable options for accommodations.
Transfer Ratios: Most transfers occur at a 1:1 ratio, which is highly favorable. However, some exceptions exist, such as JetBlue (1.25:1) and Hilton Honors (1:2). It's also worth noting that there is a small fee for transfers to domestic airlines.
Flexibility: While points can be redeemed for travel, cash back, gift cards, statement credits, and merchandise, the best value is typically achieved through transfers to travel partners. This flexibility allows users to maximize the value of their points based on their specific needs.
Overall Value: American Express Membership Rewards points are highly valued, often estimated at around 2.0 cents per point when transferred to high-value partners. The program also offers regular transfer bonuses, which can further enhance the value of points.
Unique Features: The program's regular transfer bonuses (e.g., 30% bonus to certain partners) provide additional opportunities to maximize point value.

Top Partners:

Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer (1:1)
ANA Mileage Club (1:1)
Emirates Skywards (1:1)
Delta SkyMiles (1:1)
Marriott Bonvoy (1:1)

2. Chase Ultimate Rewards

Chase Ultimate Rewards is another top contender, known for its strong and versatile transfer partner network. The program offers a balanced mix of airline and hotel partners, making it a great choice for a variety of travelers. Key features include:

Number of Transfer Partners: Chase has 11 airline partners and three hotel partners, providing a solid selection of options.
Quality of Transfer Partners: The program includes high-value programs such as United MileagePlus, World of Hyatt, Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer, and British Airways Avios. These partners offer excellent redemption opportunities for both domestic and international travel.
Transfer Ratios: All transfers occur at a 1:1 ratio, which is highly favorable and simplifies the process of maximizing point value.
Flexibility: Points can be redeemed for cash back, gift cards, statement credits, merchandise, travel through the Chase Ultimate Rewards portal, or transferred to airline and hotel partners. This flexibility allows users to choose the redemption method that best suits their needs.
Overall Value: Chase Ultimate Rewards points are valued at approximately 2.0 cents per point when transferred to partners. The combination of high-quality transfer partners, 1:1 transfer ratios, and flexible redemption options makes this program highly valuable.
Unique Features: Ultimate Rewards points are highly versatile, with strong domestic and international travel options. The ability to redeem points through the Chase Travel Portal at 1.25–1.5 cents per point (depending on the card) also adds to the program's flexibility.

Top Partners:

United MileagePlus (1:1)
World of Hyatt (1:1)
Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer (1:1)
British Airways Executive Club (Avios) (1:1)
Southwest Rapid Rewards (1:1)

3. Citi ThankYou Rewards

Citi ThankYou Rewards offers a robust list of transfer partners, particularly for international travel. While it may not have the same level of domestic coverage as Amex or Chase, it provides valuable options for those looking to explore international destinations. Key aspects include:

Number of Transfer Partners: Citi has 14 airline partners and two hotel partners, providing a good range of options for international travelers.
Quality of Transfer Partners: The program includes international programs such as Turkish Airlines Miles&Smiles, Avianca LifeMiles, and Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer. These partners offer unique redemption opportunities for specific regions and travel styles.
Transfer Ratios: Most transfers are at a 1:1 ratio, though some partners may have less favorable ratios or longer processing times.
Flexibility: Points can be redeemed for travel, cash back, gift cards, and other rewards, but the best value is often achieved through transfers to travel partners.
Overall Value: Citi ThankYou Rewards points are valued at approximately 1.8–2.0 cents per point when transferred to partners. While the program has a robust list of transfer partners, the variability in transfer times and ratios places it slightly below Amex and Chase.
Unique Features: Citi occasionally offers transfer bonuses to select partners, which can enhance the value of points.

Top Partners:

Turkish Airlines Miles&Smiles (1:1)
Avianca LifeMiles (1:1)
Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer (1:1)
Virgin Atlantic Flying Club (1:1)
Emirates Skywards (1:1)

4. Capital One Miles

Capital One Miles has significantly improved its transfer program in recent years, making it a more competitive option for travelers. The program offers a good number of partners and flexible redemption options. Key features include:

Number of Transfer Partners: Capital One has 14 airline partners and three hotel partners, providing a solid range of options.
Quality of Transfer Partners: The program includes programs like Air Canada Aeroplan, British Airways Executive Club, and Emirates Skywards. These partners offer valuable redemption opportunities for both domestic and international travel.
Transfer Ratios: Most transfers are at a 1:1 ratio, but some exceptions apply, such as 2:1.5 for EVA Air Infinity MileageLands.
Flexibility: Points can be used to erase travel purchases or transferred to partners for potentially higher value. This flexibility allows users to choose the redemption method that best suits their needs.
Overall Value: Capital One Miles are valued at approximately 1.7–1.9 cents per point when transferred to partners. While the program offers a good number of transfer partners, the overall flexibility and value are slightly lower than the top three programs.
Unique Features: Capital One has improved its transfer program significantly in recent years, making it more competitive.

Top Partners:

Air Canada Aeroplan (1:1)
British Airways Executive Club (1:1)
Emirates Skywards (1:1)
Turkish Airlines Miles&Smiles (1:1)
Wyndham Rewards (1:1)

5. Bilt Rewards

Bilt Rewards is a newer program that has quickly gained attention for its unique approach to earning points on rent payments. While its partner network is smaller than the top programs, it offers valuable options for travelers. Key aspects include:

Number of Transfer Partners: Bilt has 12 airline and hotel partners, which is a smaller list compared to the top programs but still offers valuable options.
Quality of Transfer Partners: The program includes premium programs such as American Airlines AAdvantage, World of Hyatt, and Turkish Airlines Miles&Smiles. These partners offer excellent redemption opportunities for both domestic and international travel.
Transfer Ratios: All transfers are at a 1:1 ratio, which is highly favorable.
Flexibility: Points can be redeemed for travel or transferred to partners. This flexibility allows users to choose the redemption method that best suits their needs.
Overall Value: Bilt Rewards points are valued at approximately 1.8–2.0 cents per point when transferred to partners. The program's unique feature of earning points on rent payments makes it a valuable option for renters.
Unique Features: Bilt is the only program that allows users to earn points on rent payments without a fee.

Top Partners:

American Airlines AAdvantage (1:1)
World of Hyatt (1:1)
Turkish Airlines Miles&Smiles (1:1)
United MileagePlus (1:1)
Emirates Skywards (1:1)

6. Marriott Bonvoy

Marriott Bonvoy stands out for its sheer number of airline transfer partners, though its transfer ratios are less favorable compared to other programs. The program is primarily focused on hotel stays but offers a wide range of airline options for those looking to diversify their travel redemptions. Key features include:

Number of Transfer Partners: Marriott Bonvoy has no hotel transfer partners but boasts over 40 airline partners, which is a unique but less versatile approach for hotel redemptions.
Quality of Transfer Partners: The program includes programs like Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan, American Airlines AAdvantage, and Frontier Airlines Miles. However, the lack of hotel transfer partners is a significant drawback for those primarily interested in hotel stays.
Transfer Ratios: Most transfers occur at a 3:1 ratio, which is less favorable compared to other programs. However, Marriott offers a 5,000-mile bonus for every 60,000 points transferred, which can improve the effective transfer ratio.
Flexibility: Points can be redeemed for hotel stays or transferred to airlines. The absence of hotel transfer partners and less favorable transfer ratios reduce the overall value and flexibility.
Overall Value: Marriott Bonvoy points are valued at approximately 0.8–1.0 cents per point when transferred to partners. While the sheer number of partners is a strength, the less favorable transfer ratios make it less versatile than other programs.
Unique Features: The sheer number of partners makes Marriott Bonvoy a strong choice for frequent travelers who want a wide range of airline options.

Top Partners:

American Airlines AAdvantage (3:1)
Delta SkyMiles (3:1)
Emirates Skywards (3:1)
United MileagePlus (3:1 with a 10% bonus)
ANA Mileage Club (3:1)

Conclusion

Based on the strength and diversity of transfer partners, American Express Membership Rewards and Chase Ultimate Rewards consistently rank as the top programs. They offer a combination of extensive partner networks, high-quality partners, favorable transfer ratios, and flexible redemption options. Citi ThankYou Rewards and Capital One Miles provide strong alternatives, particularly for international travel, with competitive partner networks and redemption values. Bilt Rewards is a newer program that offers unique benefits, especially for renters, and is quickly growing its partner list. Finally, Marriott Bonvoy stands out for its sheer number of airline transfer partners, though its transfer ratios are less favorable.

The value of each program can vary based on individual travel needs and preferences. It's important to consider which partners align with your travel goals and how you plan to maximize the value of your points. The information provided here is based on the available data and internet consensus as of December 19, 2024.

References:
NerdWallet - Transferring Points
Frequent Miler - Transfer Partner Master List
Bankrate - Cash Back vs. Points and Miles
Thrifty Traveler - Credit Card Transfer Partners
The Points Guy - Transfer Partners
Daily Drop - Transfer Partners Cheat Sheet
Upgraded Points Methodology
Discover Card Online
The Points Guy - Loyalty Programs