topic Re: Edp MR points vs. Freedom UR in Credit Cards

Edp MR points vs. Freedom UR

ezdoesit — Wed, 13 Aug 2014 18:56:10 GMT

After the birth of our child 3yrs ago and our other child 19 months my wife left her job to be a stay at home mom. She is planning on going back to work not for monetary reasons but she wants to get back in the work force as an Architect which was always her plan and doesn't want to have such a large employment gap.

My youngest will be going to daycare which will run about $1600 a month. We found out the the daycare accepts CC payments.

I have both the EDP and CSP and Freedom and Chase checking so I will discount the CSP because of the 10% bonus on the freedom.

Out of the two cards which do you value more? Assuming I make the 30 swipes per month on the EDP.

I know each persons situation is different but I am interested in hearing different responses on why they value one over the other and why?

Re: Edp MR points vs. Freedom UR

Closingracer99 — Wed, 13 Aug 2014 19:06:35 GMT

I value UR a lot more since I have the Chase Freedom, Chase checking , CSP , CS for now and Chase Marriott premier card. So all the points will be either CB at certain times or going to my Marriott rewards account

Re: Edp MR points vs. Freedom UR

Anonymous — Wed, 13 Aug 2014 19:45:28 GMT

@ezdoesit wrote:
After the birth of our child 3yrs ago and our other child 19 months my wife left her job to be a stay at home mom. She is planning on going back to work not for monetary reasons but she wants to get back in the work force as an Architect which was always her plan and doesn't want to have such a large employment gap.

My youngest will be going to daycare which will run about $1600 a month. We found out the the daycare accepts CC payments.

I have both the EDP and CSP and Freedom and Chase checking so I will discount the CSP because of the 10% bonus on the freedom.

Out of the two cards which do you value more? Assuming I make the 30 swipes per month on the EDP.

I know each persons situation is different but I am interested in hearing different responses on why they value one over the other and why?

I think that "general" wisdom, ranks UR a little higher than MR (and sometimes you see SPG>UR>MR, and now we have to add TYP!) but it REALLY depends on what airlines/hotels you will use. So if MR partners serve your local airports and UR don't (or more likely much less frequently) any theoretical advantage of UR is diminished.

And look at what it takes in redemptions, you will be earning 2400 MR a month vs 1,760 UR.

Re: Edp MR points vs. Freedom UR

mongstradamus — Wed, 13 Aug 2014 19:54:31 GMT

@Anonymous wrote:
@ezdoesit wrote:
After the birth of our child 3yrs ago and our other child 19 months my wife left her job to be a stay at home mom. She is planning on going back to work not for monetary reasons but she wants to get back in the work force as an Architect which was always her plan and doesn't want to have such a large employment gap.

My youngest will be going to daycare which will run about $1600 a month. We found out the the daycare accepts CC payments.

I have both the EDP and CSP and Freedom and Chase checking so I will discount the CSP because of the 10% bonus on the freedom.

Out of the two cards which do you value more? Assuming I make the 30 swipes per month on the EDP.

I know each persons situation is different but I am interested in hearing different responses on why they value one over the other and why?
I think that "general" wisdom, ranks UR a little higher than MR (and sometimes you see SPG>UR>MR, and now we have to add TYP!) but it REALLY depends on what airlines/hotels you will use. So if MR partners serve your local airports and UR don't (or more likely much less frequently) any theoretical advantage of UR is diminished.

And look at what it takes in redemptions, you will be earning 2400 MR a month vs 1,760 UR.

Its all about the partners imo. MR for hotels you have hilton UR you have Hyatt and to lesser extent marriot. Marriots i don't like as much because of the HORRIBLE redemption values, but i am sure others will disagree with me on marriot usage. I guess it would be ok to use it if you have marriot card, but not for me:-)

You should also look at the airline partners compare the two which you would use more.

Re: Edp MR points vs. Freedom UR

Open123 — Thu, 14 Aug 2014 02:24:49 GMT

As Lurker has observed, in general, the points value hiearchy is SPG > UR > MR. Personally, I find all three useful and make an effort to accrue points in all of them.

If it's just between MR and URs, here's what I've found to be true.

1. For MR redemptions - SQ, ANA and Cathay business class redemptions offer a pretty good value, if you fly to SE Asia. Also, transferring to BA and booking AA domestic flights usually offer a pretty decent value too. For hotel redemptions, there isn't really anything compelling. With Amex, if you prefer hotel points, go with SPG.

2. For UR redemptions - UA, Hyatt and BA (for AA flights). While there has been some devaluation, transferring points to these three will still get you some pretty good value, especially if done prudently.

If it's point for point, I'd say UR points are more valuable than MR points, all things being equal. However, at 1.5 for the EDP, assuming you're going to pay the annual fee and can make the 30 swipe per month (which isn't hard, just pay your cell phone bill once per day), MRs are more valuable. The 50% bonus is hard to overcome. I'd even take the 50% bonus on MR over a single SPG point.

For me, with MRs, I'll use to transfer to wherever I'm short a few points. For example, when there's a BA or Virgin bonus, I'll transfer some MRs. Or, if I'm short some HA miles, I'll transfer some MRs. But mostly, I use them for premium cabin seats on the SE Asian routes through SQ or Cathay.

That's my take. I'd recommend going with the 50% MR bonus. Eventhough URs may be a more valuable currency, it's isn't enough to overcome the 50% MR point bonus, which is quite significant.

Good luck!

Re: Edp MR points vs. Freedom UR

ezdoesit — Thu, 14 Aug 2014 02:37:19 GMT

@Open123 wrote:
As Lurker has observed, in general, the points value hiearchy is SPG > UR > MR. Personally, I find all three useful and make an effort to accrue points in all of them.

If it's just between MR and URs, here's what I've found to be true.

1. For MR redemptions - SQ, ANA and Cathay business class redemptions offer a pretty good value, if you fly to SE Asia. Also, transferring to BA and booking AA domestic flights usually offer a pretty decent value too. For hotel redemptions, there isn't really anything compelling. With Amex, if you prefer hotel points, go with SPG.

2. For UR redemptions - UA, Hyatt and BA (for AA flights). While there has been some devaluation, transferring points to these three will still get you some pretty good value, especially if done prudently.

If it's point for point, I'd say UR points are more valuable than MR points, all things being equal. However, at 1.5 for the EDP, assuming you're going to pay the annual fee and can make the 30 swipe per month (which isn't hard, just pay your cell phone bill once per day), MRs are more valuable. The 50% bonus is hard to overcome. I'd even take the 50% bonus on MR over a single SPG point.

For me, with MRs, I'll use to transfer to wherever I'm short a few points. For example, when there's a BA or Virgin bonus, I'll transfer some MRs. Or, if I'm short some HA miles, I'll transfer some MRs. But mostly, I use them for premium cabin seats on the SE Asian routes through SQ or Cathay.

That's my take. I'd recommend going with the 50% MR bonus. Eventhough URs may be a more valuable currency, it's isn't enough to overcome the 50% MR point bonus, which is quite significant.

Good luck!

Thanks that is what I was looking for someone's personal take on it to just get their viewpoint even if it's just their viewpoint. In that regards there can be no wrong answer. If they were in my shoes which would they prefer based on their own needs.

Re: Edp MR points vs. Freedom UR

mongstradamus — Thu, 14 Aug 2014 03:44:10 GMT

@Open123 wrote:
As Lurker has observed, in general, the points value hiearchy is SPG > UR > MR. Personally, I find all three useful and make an effort to accrue points in all of them.

If it's just between MR and URs, here's what I've found to be true.

1. For MR redemptions - SQ, ANA and Cathay business class redemptions offer a pretty good value, if you fly to SE Asia. Also, transferring to BA and booking AA domestic flights usually offer a pretty decent value too. For hotel redemptions, there isn't really anything compelling. With Amex, if you prefer hotel points, go with SPG.

2. For UR redemptions - UA, Hyatt and BA (for AA flights). While there has been some devaluation, transferring points to these three will still get you some pretty good value, especially if done prudently.

If it's point for point, I'd say UR points are more valuable than MR points, all things being equal. However, at 1.5 for the EDP, assuming you're going to pay the annual fee and can make the 30 swipe per month (which isn't hard, just pay your cell phone bill once per day), MRs are more valuable. The 50% bonus is hard to overcome. I'd even take the 50% bonus on MR over a single SPG point.

For me, with MRs, I'll use to transfer to wherever I'm short a few points. For example, when there's a BA or Virgin bonus, I'll transfer some MRs. Or, if I'm short some HA miles, I'll transfer some MRs. But mostly, I use them for premium cabin seats on the SE Asian routes through SQ or Cathay.

That's my take. I'd recommend going with the 50% MR bonus. Eventhough URs may be a more valuable currency, it's isn't enough to overcome the 50% MR point bonus, which is quite significant.

Good luck!

I agree for the most part SPG>UR>MR , but the thing about that is there is no bonus spend really for spg cards like there are say for INK cards or PRG/EDP. I would think its not as easy to accumulate SPG points as it is for UR and MR points.

I am still trying to figure out how to best use UR points. Short domestic trips via avios could be good use, even an quick flight to bermuda wouldn't be bad its 15k RT on economy. There was an deal with SQ an while ago flying to Maui from JFK for 35k econ or 60k for business RT. Those are some pretty good deals.

Re: Edp MR points vs. Freedom UR

red259 — Thu, 14 Aug 2014 04:34:49 GMT

@Open123 wrote:
As Lurker has observed, in general, the points value hiearchy is SPG > UR > MR. Personally, I find all three useful and make an effort to accrue points in all of them.

If it's just between MR and URs, here's what I've found to be true.

1. For MR redemptions - SQ, ANA and Cathay business class redemptions offer a pretty good value, if you fly to SE Asia. Also, transferring to BA and booking AA domestic flights usually offer a pretty decent value too. For hotel redemptions, there isn't really anything compelling. With Amex, if you prefer hotel points, go with SPG.

2. For UR redemptions - UA, Hyatt and BA (for AA flights). While there has been some devaluation, transferring points to these three will still get you some pretty good value, especially if done prudently.

If it's point for point, I'd say UR points are more valuable than MR points, all things being equal. However, at 1.5 for the EDP, assuming you're going to pay the annual fee and can make the 30 swipe per month (which isn't hard, just pay your cell phone bill once per day), MRs are more valuable. The 50% bonus is hard to overcome. I'd even take the 50% bonus on MR over a single SPG point.

For me, with MRs, I'll use to transfer to wherever I'm short a few points. For example, when there's a BA or Virgin bonus, I'll transfer some MRs. Or, if I'm short some HA miles, I'll transfer some MRs. But mostly, I use them for premium cabin seats on the SE Asian routes through SQ or Cathay.

That's my take. I'd recommend going with the 50% MR bonus. Eventhough URs may be a more valuable currency, it's isn't enough to overcome the 50% MR point bonus, which is quite significant.

Good luck!

Great post. I have points in SPG/UR and MR. I cringe when I see people using URs to get cashback. It defeats the purpose of having a card like the CSP! SPG points are useful (i'm asctually using my spg signup to top off my AA account so I can fly first to Asia), but they are much much harder to earn. MRs are harder to earn via signup offers compared to the URs from chase but with the new amex card if you can get that 50% bonus you should be able to earn at a decent rate. 2014 is mostly geared towards UR points for me, but I think 2015 once I get that new amex card will have me doing a lot more serious earning in the MR category. As always its good to gather points in multiple programs as well as a cash redemption card like venture or barclays etc.

Re: Edp MR points vs. Freedom UR

red259 — Thu, 14 Aug 2014 04:38:42 GMT

@mongstradamus wrote:
@Open123 wrote:
As Lurker has observed, in general, the points value hiearchy is SPG > UR > MR. Personally, I find all three useful and make an effort to accrue points in all of them.

If it's just between MR and URs, here's what I've found to be true.

1. For MR redemptions - SQ, ANA and Cathay business class redemptions offer a pretty good value, if you fly to SE Asia. Also, transferring to BA and booking AA domestic flights usually offer a pretty decent value too. For hotel redemptions, there isn't really anything compelling. With Amex, if you prefer hotel points, go with SPG.

2. For UR redemptions - UA, Hyatt and BA (for AA flights). While there has been some devaluation, transferring points to these three will still get you some pretty good value, especially if done prudently.

If it's point for point, I'd say UR points are more valuable than MR points, all things being equal. However, at 1.5 for the EDP, assuming you're going to pay the annual fee and can make the 30 swipe per month (which isn't hard, just pay your cell phone bill once per day), MRs are more valuable. The 50% bonus is hard to overcome. I'd even take the 50% bonus on MR over a single SPG point.

For me, with MRs, I'll use to transfer to wherever I'm short a few points. For example, when there's a BA or Virgin bonus, I'll transfer some MRs. Or, if I'm short some HA miles, I'll transfer some MRs. But mostly, I use them for premium cabin seats on the SE Asian routes through SQ or Cathay.

That's my take. I'd recommend going with the 50% MR bonus. Eventhough URs may be a more valuable currency, it's isn't enough to overcome the 50% MR point bonus, which is quite significant.

Good luck!
I agree for the most part SPG>UR>MR , but the thing about that is there is no bonus spend really for spg cards like there are say for INK cards or PRG/EDP. I would think its not as easy to accumulate SPG points as it is for UR and MR points.

I am still trying to figure out how to best use UR points. Short domestic trips via avios could be good use, even an quick flight to bermuda wouldn't be bad its 15k RT on economy. There was an deal with SQ an while ago flying to Maui from JFK for 35k econ or 60k for business RT. Those are some pretty good deals.

Those are some good deals. I was saving my UR points for Hyatts stays for the most part as I have a bunch of AA miles saved up, but I may use some for short hop flights as well.

Re: Edp MR points vs. Freedom UR

mongstradamus — Thu, 14 Aug 2014 04:42:01 GMT

@red259 wrote:
@mongstradamus wrote:
@Open123 wrote:
As Lurker has observed, in general, the points value hiearchy is SPG > UR > MR. Personally, I find all three useful and make an effort to accrue points in all of them.

If it's just between MR and URs, here's what I've found to be true.

1. For MR redemptions - SQ, ANA and Cathay business class redemptions offer a pretty good value, if you fly to SE Asia. Also, transferring to BA and booking AA domestic flights usually offer a pretty decent value too. For hotel redemptions, there isn't really anything compelling. With Amex, if you prefer hotel points, go with SPG.

2. For UR redemptions - UA, Hyatt and BA (for AA flights). While there has been some devaluation, transferring points to these three will still get you some pretty good value, especially if done prudently.

If it's point for point, I'd say UR points are more valuable than MR points, all things being equal. However, at 1.5 for the EDP, assuming you're going to pay the annual fee and can make the 30 swipe per month (which isn't hard, just pay your cell phone bill once per day), MRs are more valuable. The 50% bonus is hard to overcome. I'd even take the 50% bonus on MR over a single SPG point.

For me, with MRs, I'll use to transfer to wherever I'm short a few points. For example, when there's a BA or Virgin bonus, I'll transfer some MRs. Or, if I'm short some HA miles, I'll transfer some MRs. But mostly, I use them for premium cabin seats on the SE Asian routes through SQ or Cathay.

That's my take. I'd recommend going with the 50% MR bonus. Eventhough URs may be a more valuable currency, it's isn't enough to overcome the 50% MR point bonus, which is quite significant.

Good luck!
I agree for the most part SPG>UR>MR , but the thing about that is there is no bonus spend really for spg cards like there are say for INK cards or PRG/EDP. I would think its not as easy to accumulate SPG points as it is for UR and MR points.

I am still trying to figure out how to best use UR points. Short domestic trips via avios could be good use, even an quick flight to bermuda wouldn't be bad its 15k RT on economy. There was an deal with SQ an while ago flying to Maui from JFK for 35k econ or 60k for business RT. Those are some pretty good deals.
Those are some good deals. I was saving my UR points for Hyatts stays for the most part as I have a bunch of AA miles saved up, but I may use some for short hop flights as well.

The problem i find with hyatt their international presence isn't the greatest. I was looking at St Thomas or Grand Cayman Islands i don't think hyatt has any hotels in either of those places.

On an unrelated topic i am still waiting on PRG 50k offer i am thinking of doing PRG/Delta for my next two amex cards. That new delta public offer looks pretty nice. Once my PRG reaches time to pay AF i may go for either ED or EDP to use for grocery and gas spend possibly. Not 100% sure what i wanna do.

Re: Edp MR points vs. Freedom UR

red259 — Thu, 14 Aug 2014 04:50:25 GMT

@mongstradamus wrote:
@red259 wrote:
@mongstradamus wrote:
@Open123 wrote:
As Lurker has observed, in general, the points value hiearchy is SPG > UR > MR. Personally, I find all three useful and make an effort to accrue points in all of them.

If it's just between MR and URs, here's what I've found to be true.

1. For MR redemptions - SQ, ANA and Cathay business class redemptions offer a pretty good value, if you fly to SE Asia. Also, transferring to BA and booking AA domestic flights usually offer a pretty decent value too. For hotel redemptions, there isn't really anything compelling. With Amex, if you prefer hotel points, go with SPG.

2. For UR redemptions - UA, Hyatt and BA (for AA flights). While there has been some devaluation, transferring points to these three will still get you some pretty good value, especially if done prudently.

If it's point for point, I'd say UR points are more valuable than MR points, all things being equal. However, at 1.5 for the EDP, assuming you're going to pay the annual fee and can make the 30 swipe per month (which isn't hard, just pay your cell phone bill once per day), MRs are more valuable. The 50% bonus is hard to overcome. I'd even take the 50% bonus on MR over a single SPG point.

For me, with MRs, I'll use to transfer to wherever I'm short a few points. For example, when there's a BA or Virgin bonus, I'll transfer some MRs. Or, if I'm short some HA miles, I'll transfer some MRs. But mostly, I use them for premium cabin seats on the SE Asian routes through SQ or Cathay.

That's my take. I'd recommend going with the 50% MR bonus. Eventhough URs may be a more valuable currency, it's isn't enough to overcome the 50% MR point bonus, which is quite significant.

Good luck!
I agree for the most part SPG>UR>MR , but the thing about that is there is no bonus spend really for spg cards like there are say for INK cards or PRG/EDP. I would think its not as easy to accumulate SPG points as it is for UR and MR points.

I am still trying to figure out how to best use UR points. Short domestic trips via avios could be good use, even an quick flight to bermuda wouldn't be bad its 15k RT on economy. There was an deal with SQ an while ago flying to Maui from JFK for 35k econ or 60k for business RT. Those are some pretty good deals.
Those are some good deals. I was saving my UR points for Hyatts stays for the most part as I have a bunch of AA miles saved up, but I may use some for short hop flights as well.
The problem i find with hyatt their international presence isn't the greatest. I was looking at St Thomas or Grand Cayman Islands i don't think hyatt has any hotels in either of those places.

On an unrelated topic i am still waiting on PRG 50k offer i am thinking of doing PRG/Delta for my next two amex cards. That new delta public offer looks pretty nice. Once my PRG reaches time to pay AF i may go for either ED or EDP to use for grocery and gas spend possibly. Not 100% sure what i wanna do.

Yes Hyatt's smaller footprint is an issue.

Re: Edp MR points vs. Freedom UR

mongstradamus — Thu, 14 Aug 2014 04:53:03 GMT

@red259 wrote:
@mongstradamus wrote:
@red259 wrote:
@mongstradamus wrote:
@Open123 wrote:
As Lurker has observed, in general, the points value hiearchy is SPG > UR > MR. Personally, I find all three useful and make an effort to accrue points in all of them.

If it's just between MR and URs, here's what I've found to be true.

1. For MR redemptions - SQ, ANA and Cathay business class redemptions offer a pretty good value, if you fly to SE Asia. Also, transferring to BA and booking AA domestic flights usually offer a pretty decent value too. For hotel redemptions, there isn't really anything compelling. With Amex, if you prefer hotel points, go with SPG.

2. For UR redemptions - UA, Hyatt and BA (for AA flights). While there has been some devaluation, transferring points to these three will still get you some pretty good value, especially if done prudently.

If it's point for point, I'd say UR points are more valuable than MR points, all things being equal. However, at 1.5 for the EDP, assuming you're going to pay the annual fee and can make the 30 swipe per month (which isn't hard, just pay your cell phone bill once per day), MRs are more valuable. The 50% bonus is hard to overcome. I'd even take the 50% bonus on MR over a single SPG point.

For me, with MRs, I'll use to transfer to wherever I'm short a few points. For example, when there's a BA or Virgin bonus, I'll transfer some MRs. Or, if I'm short some HA miles, I'll transfer some MRs. But mostly, I use them for premium cabin seats on the SE Asian routes through SQ or Cathay.

That's my take. I'd recommend going with the 50% MR bonus. Eventhough URs may be a more valuable currency, it's isn't enough to overcome the 50% MR point bonus, which is quite significant.

Good luck!
I agree for the most part SPG>UR>MR , but the thing about that is there is no bonus spend really for spg cards like there are say for INK cards or PRG/EDP. I would think its not as easy to accumulate SPG points as it is for UR and MR points.

I am still trying to figure out how to best use UR points. Short domestic trips via avios could be good use, even an quick flight to bermuda wouldn't be bad its 15k RT on economy. There was an deal with SQ an while ago flying to Maui from JFK for 35k econ or 60k for business RT. Those are some pretty good deals.
Those are some good deals. I was saving my UR points for Hyatts stays for the most part as I have a bunch of AA miles saved up, but I may use some for short hop flights as well.
The problem i find with hyatt their international presence isn't the greatest. I was looking at St Thomas or Grand Cayman Islands i don't think hyatt has any hotels in either of those places.

On an unrelated topic i am still waiting on PRG 50k offer i am thinking of doing PRG/Delta for my next two amex cards. That new delta public offer looks pretty nice. Once my PRG reaches time to pay AF i may go for either ED or EDP to use for grocery and gas spend possibly. Not 100% sure what i wanna do.
Yes Hyatt's smaller footprint is an issue.

That is main issue with MR and UR based cards, the choice of hotels isn't the greatest in the world . MR has hilton but hilton points are not valued the best and UR has Hyatt , but presence isn't the best. I wouldn't use UR points for marriot because the value is just horrendous. I think its actually less than 1 to 1. What do you do for hotels? I was thikning of picking up something like arrival+ or something.

Re: Edp MR points vs. Freedom UR

red259 — Thu, 14 Aug 2014 04:55:54 GMT

@mongstradamus wrote:
@red259 wrote:
@mongstradamus wrote:
@red259 wrote:
@mongstradamus wrote:
@Open123 wrote:
As Lurker has observed, in general, the points value hiearchy is SPG > UR > MR. Personally, I find all three useful and make an effort to accrue points in all of them.

If it's just between MR and URs, here's what I've found to be true.

1. For MR redemptions - SQ, ANA and Cathay business class redemptions offer a pretty good value, if you fly to SE Asia. Also, transferring to BA and booking AA domestic flights usually offer a pretty decent value too. For hotel redemptions, there isn't really anything compelling. With Amex, if you prefer hotel points, go with SPG.

2. For UR redemptions - UA, Hyatt and BA (for AA flights). While there has been some devaluation, transferring points to these three will still get you some pretty good value, especially if done prudently.

If it's point for point, I'd say UR points are more valuable than MR points, all things being equal. However, at 1.5 for the EDP, assuming you're going to pay the annual fee and can make the 30 swipe per month (which isn't hard, just pay your cell phone bill once per day), MRs are more valuable. The 50% bonus is hard to overcome. I'd even take the 50% bonus on MR over a single SPG point.

For me, with MRs, I'll use to transfer to wherever I'm short a few points. For example, when there's a BA or Virgin bonus, I'll transfer some MRs. Or, if I'm short some HA miles, I'll transfer some MRs. But mostly, I use them for premium cabin seats on the SE Asian routes through SQ or Cathay.

That's my take. I'd recommend going with the 50% MR bonus. Eventhough URs may be a more valuable currency, it's isn't enough to overcome the 50% MR point bonus, which is quite significant.

Good luck!
I agree for the most part SPG>UR>MR , but the thing about that is there is no bonus spend really for spg cards like there are say for INK cards or PRG/EDP. I would think its not as easy to accumulate SPG points as it is for UR and MR points.

I am still trying to figure out how to best use UR points. Short domestic trips via avios could be good use, even an quick flight to bermuda wouldn't be bad its 15k RT on economy. There was an deal with SQ an while ago flying to Maui from JFK for 35k econ or 60k for business RT. Those are some pretty good deals.
Those are some good deals. I was saving my UR points for Hyatts stays for the most part as I have a bunch of AA miles saved up, but I may use some for short hop flights as well.
The problem i find with hyatt their international presence isn't the greatest. I was looking at St Thomas or Grand Cayman Islands i don't think hyatt has any hotels in either of those places.

On an unrelated topic i am still waiting on PRG 50k offer i am thinking of doing PRG/Delta for my next two amex cards. That new delta public offer looks pretty nice. Once my PRG reaches time to pay AF i may go for either ED or EDP to use for grocery and gas spend possibly. Not 100% sure what i wanna do.
Yes Hyatt's smaller footprint is an issue.
That is main issue with MR and UR based cards, the choice of hotels isn't the greatest in the world . MR has hilton but hilton points are not valued the best and UR has Hyatt , but presence isn't the best. I wouldn't use UR points for marriot because the value is just horrendous. I think its actually less than 1 to 1. What do you do for hotels? I was thikning of picking up something like arrival+ or something.

For domestic travel I heard the SPG card is decent. I'm using my poijnts towards AA, but apparently doing the points with cash thing is a decent deal. actually if yuour using points then FTF isn't an issue so the points work international too.

Re: Edp MR points vs. Freedom UR

mongstradamus — Thu, 14 Aug 2014 04:59:41 GMT

@red259 wrote:
@mongstradamus wrote:
@red259 wrote:
@mongstradamus wrote:
@red259 wrote:
@mongstradamus wrote:
@Open123 wrote:
As Lurker has observed, in general, the points value hiearchy is SPG > UR > MR. Personally, I find all three useful and make an effort to accrue points in all of them.

If it's just between MR and URs, here's what I've found to be true.

1. For MR redemptions - SQ, ANA and Cathay business class redemptions offer a pretty good value, if you fly to SE Asia. Also, transferring to BA and booking AA domestic flights usually offer a pretty decent value too. For hotel redemptions, there isn't really anything compelling. With Amex, if you prefer hotel points, go with SPG.

2. For UR redemptions - UA, Hyatt and BA (for AA flights). While there has been some devaluation, transferring points to these three will still get you some pretty good value, especially if done prudently.

If it's point for point, I'd say UR points are more valuable than MR points, all things being equal. However, at 1.5 for the EDP, assuming you're going to pay the annual fee and can make the 30 swipe per month (which isn't hard, just pay your cell phone bill once per day), MRs are more valuable. The 50% bonus is hard to overcome. I'd even take the 50% bonus on MR over a single SPG point.

For me, with MRs, I'll use to transfer to wherever I'm short a few points. For example, when there's a BA or Virgin bonus, I'll transfer some MRs. Or, if I'm short some HA miles, I'll transfer some MRs. But mostly, I use them for premium cabin seats on the SE Asian routes through SQ or Cathay.

That's my take. I'd recommend going with the 50% MR bonus. Eventhough URs may be a more valuable currency, it's isn't enough to overcome the 50% MR point bonus, which is quite significant.

Good luck!
I agree for the most part SPG>UR>MR , but the thing about that is there is no bonus spend really for spg cards like there are say for INK cards or PRG/EDP. I would think its not as easy to accumulate SPG points as it is for UR and MR points.

I am still trying to figure out how to best use UR points. Short domestic trips via avios could be good use, even an quick flight to bermuda wouldn't be bad its 15k RT on economy. There was an deal with SQ an while ago flying to Maui from JFK for 35k econ or 60k for business RT. Those are some pretty good deals.
Those are some good deals. I was saving my UR points for Hyatts stays for the most part as I have a bunch of AA miles saved up, but I may use some for short hop flights as well.
The problem i find with hyatt their international presence isn't the greatest. I was looking at St Thomas or Grand Cayman Islands i don't think hyatt has any hotels in either of those places.

On an unrelated topic i am still waiting on PRG 50k offer i am thinking of doing PRG/Delta for my next two amex cards. That new delta public offer looks pretty nice. Once my PRG reaches time to pay AF i may go for either ED or EDP to use for grocery and gas spend possibly. Not 100% sure what i wanna do.
Yes Hyatt's smaller footprint is an issue.
That is main issue with MR and UR based cards, the choice of hotels isn't the greatest in the world . MR has hilton but hilton points are not valued the best and UR has Hyatt , but presence isn't the best. I wouldn't use UR points for marriot because the value is just horrendous. I think its actually less than 1 to 1. What do you do for hotels? I was thikning of picking up something like arrival+ or something.
For domestic travel I heard the SPG card is decent. I'm using my poijnts towards AA, but apparently doing the points with cash thing is a decent deal. actually if yuour using points then FTF isn't an issue so the points work international too.

I can be patient with SPG card. i want to wait and see if i could snag a 35k offer or something like that for SPG. Just want to make sure i get best value for signup bonus , since it seems to be 1 and done with amex as far as signup bonuses go with one card.

What are you doing for cross country flights since most are 25k no matter what airline you use ? I was thinking of doing with UR virgin atlantic to virgin america since they are probably one of the best domestic airlines out there.

Re: Edp MR points vs. Freedom UR

red259 — Thu, 14 Aug 2014 05:26:19 GMT

@mongstradamus wrote:
@red259 wrote:
@mongstradamus wrote:
@red259 wrote:
@mongstradamus wrote:
@red259 wrote:
@mongstradamus wrote:
@Open123 wrote:
As Lurker has observed, in general, the points value hiearchy is SPG > UR > MR. Personally, I find all three useful and make an effort to accrue points in all of them.

If it's just between MR and URs, here's what I've found to be true.

1. For MR redemptions - SQ, ANA and Cathay business class redemptions offer a pretty good value, if you fly to SE Asia. Also, transferring to BA and booking AA domestic flights usually offer a pretty decent value too. For hotel redemptions, there isn't really anything compelling. With Amex, if you prefer hotel points, go with SPG.

2. For UR redemptions - UA, Hyatt and BA (for AA flights). While there has been some devaluation, transferring points to these three will still get you some pretty good value, especially if done prudently.

If it's point for point, I'd say UR points are more valuable than MR points, all things being equal. However, at 1.5 for the EDP, assuming you're going to pay the annual fee and can make the 30 swipe per month (which isn't hard, just pay your cell phone bill once per day), MRs are more valuable. The 50% bonus is hard to overcome. I'd even take the 50% bonus on MR over a single SPG point.

For me, with MRs, I'll use to transfer to wherever I'm short a few points. For example, when there's a BA or Virgin bonus, I'll transfer some MRs. Or, if I'm short some HA miles, I'll transfer some MRs. But mostly, I use them for premium cabin seats on the SE Asian routes through SQ or Cathay.

That's my take. I'd recommend going with the 50% MR bonus. Eventhough URs may be a more valuable currency, it's isn't enough to overcome the 50% MR point bonus, which is quite significant.

Good luck!
I agree for the most part SPG>UR>MR , but the thing about that is there is no bonus spend really for spg cards like there are say for INK cards or PRG/EDP. I would think its not as easy to accumulate SPG points as it is for UR and MR points.

I am still trying to figure out how to best use UR points. Short domestic trips via avios could be good use, even an quick flight to bermuda wouldn't be bad its 15k RT on economy. There was an deal with SQ an while ago flying to Maui from JFK for 35k econ or 60k for business RT. Those are some pretty good deals.
Those are some good deals. I was saving my UR points for Hyatts stays for the most part as I have a bunch of AA miles saved up, but I may use some for short hop flights as well.
The problem i find with hyatt their international presence isn't the greatest. I was looking at St Thomas or Grand Cayman Islands i don't think hyatt has any hotels in either of those places.

On an unrelated topic i am still waiting on PRG 50k offer i am thinking of doing PRG/Delta for my next two amex cards. That new delta public offer looks pretty nice. Once my PRG reaches time to pay AF i may go for either ED or EDP to use for grocery and gas spend possibly. Not 100% sure what i wanna do.
Yes Hyatt's smaller footprint is an issue.
That is main issue with MR and UR based cards, the choice of hotels isn't the greatest in the world . MR has hilton but hilton points are not valued the best and UR has Hyatt , but presence isn't the best. I wouldn't use UR points for marriot because the value is just horrendous. I think its actually less than 1 to 1. What do you do for hotels? I was thikning of picking up something like arrival+ or something.
For domestic travel I heard the SPG card is decent. I'm using my poijnts towards AA, but apparently doing the points with cash thing is a decent deal. actually if yuour using points then FTF isn't an issue so the points work international too.
I can be patient with SPG card. i want to wait and see if i could snag a 35k offer or something like that for SPG. Just want to make sure i get best value for signup bonus , since it seems to be 1 and done with amex as far as signup bonuses go with one card.

What are you doing for cross country flights since most are 25k no matter what airline you use ? I was thinking of doing with UR virgin atlantic to virgin america since they are probably one of the best domestic airlines out there.

Haven't looked into cross country flights recently in terms of using miles. You can get kjfk/lax flights for around $330 RT depending on day of week etc and earn miles with the airline if you use a barclays. If you use 25k UR points you would be getting less than .02 back in value. The price of flying NY to Bermuda is about the same! cash wise, so the points are a much better play there.

Re: Edp MR points vs. Freedom UR

mongstradamus — Thu, 14 Aug 2014 05:37:03 GMT

@red259 wrote:
@mongstradamus wrote:
@red259 wrote:
@mongstradamus wrote:
@red259 wrote:
@mongstradamus wrote:
@red259 wrote:
@mongstradamus wrote:
@Open123 wrote:
As Lurker has observed, in general, the points value hiearchy is SPG > UR > MR. Personally, I find all three useful and make an effort to accrue points in all of them.

If it's just between MR and URs, here's what I've found to be true.

1. For MR redemptions - SQ, ANA and Cathay business class redemptions offer a pretty good value, if you fly to SE Asia. Also, transferring to BA and booking AA domestic flights usually offer a pretty decent value too. For hotel redemptions, there isn't really anything compelling. With Amex, if you prefer hotel points, go with SPG.

2. For UR redemptions - UA, Hyatt and BA (for AA flights). While there has been some devaluation, transferring points to these three will still get you some pretty good value, especially if done prudently.

If it's point for point, I'd say UR points are more valuable than MR points, all things being equal. However, at 1.5 for the EDP, assuming you're going to pay the annual fee and can make the 30 swipe per month (which isn't hard, just pay your cell phone bill once per day), MRs are more valuable. The 50% bonus is hard to overcome. I'd even take the 50% bonus on MR over a single SPG point.

For me, with MRs, I'll use to transfer to wherever I'm short a few points. For example, when there's a BA or Virgin bonus, I'll transfer some MRs. Or, if I'm short some HA miles, I'll transfer some MRs. But mostly, I use them for premium cabin seats on the SE Asian routes through SQ or Cathay.

That's my take. I'd recommend going with the 50% MR bonus. Eventhough URs may be a more valuable currency, it's isn't enough to overcome the 50% MR point bonus, which is quite significant.

Good luck!
I agree for the most part SPG>UR>MR , but the thing about that is there is no bonus spend really for spg cards like there are say for INK cards or PRG/EDP. I would think its not as easy to accumulate SPG points as it is for UR and MR points.

I am still trying to figure out how to best use UR points. Short domestic trips via avios could be good use, even an quick flight to bermuda wouldn't be bad its 15k RT on economy. There was an deal with SQ an while ago flying to Maui from JFK for 35k econ or 60k for business RT. Those are some pretty good deals.
Those are some good deals. I was saving my UR points for Hyatts stays for the most part as I have a bunch of AA miles saved up, but I may use some for short hop flights as well.
The problem i find with hyatt their international presence isn't the greatest. I was looking at St Thomas or Grand Cayman Islands i don't think hyatt has any hotels in either of those places.

On an unrelated topic i am still waiting on PRG 50k offer i am thinking of doing PRG/Delta for my next two amex cards. That new delta public offer looks pretty nice. Once my PRG reaches time to pay AF i may go for either ED or EDP to use for grocery and gas spend possibly. Not 100% sure what i wanna do.
Yes Hyatt's smaller footprint is an issue.
That is main issue with MR and UR based cards, the choice of hotels isn't the greatest in the world . MR has hilton but hilton points are not valued the best and UR has Hyatt , but presence isn't the best. I wouldn't use UR points for marriot because the value is just horrendous. I think its actually less than 1 to 1. What do you do for hotels? I was thikning of picking up something like arrival+ or something.
For domestic travel I heard the SPG card is decent. I'm using my poijnts towards AA, but apparently doing the points with cash thing is a decent deal. actually if yuour using points then FTF isn't an issue so the points work international too.
I can be patient with SPG card. i want to wait and see if i could snag a 35k offer or something like that for SPG. Just want to make sure i get best value for signup bonus , since it seems to be 1 and done with amex as far as signup bonuses go with one card.

What are you doing for cross country flights since most are 25k no matter what airline you use ? I was thinking of doing with UR virgin atlantic to virgin america since they are probably one of the best domestic airlines out there.
Haven't looked into cross country flights recently in terms of using miles. You can get kjfk/lax flights for around $330 RT depending on day of week etc and earn miles with the airline if you use a barclays. If you use 25k UR points you would be getting less than .02 back in value. The price of flying NY to Bermuda is about the same! cash wise, so the points are a much better play there.

Yea cross country to lax or las seems like paying "cash" may be better option. That is unfortunate.

Re: Edp MR points vs. Freedom UR

Closingracer99 — Thu, 14 Aug 2014 13:09:06 GMT

@mongstradamus wrote:
That is main issue with MR and UR based cards, the choice of hotels isn't the greatest in the world . MR has hilton but hilton points are not valued the best and UR has Hyatt , but presence isn't the best. I wouldn't use UR points for marriot because the value is just horrendous. I think its actually less than 1 to 1. What do you do for hotels? I was thikning of picking up something like arrival+ or something.

Errr glancing at the point system it seems a bit higher then less then 1 to 1.

Re: Edp MR points vs. Freedom UR

ezdoesit — Thu, 14 Aug 2014 13:56:27 GMT

I like Open's point with trying to accrue Points in each one SPG,UR,MR. It seems correct me if I am wrong but all three can be converted to Avios which in turn is accept by AA but then AA flights tend to be so much higher than other airlines is I feel that while you get a expensive flight on points that same flight might be 50% cheaper on another airline. So you lose what you just gained. The only problem with flying using Avios I see is unless you use another airline that takes Avios points is flying international using BA Or Virgin is horrible because of the ridiculously high fuel surcharge. I do like the fact the with the new EDP you can accrue points faster.

Is the conventional wisdom that SPG is rank higher is because it has a much larger transfer partner base? Getting points seems so difficult though.

From reading the post is seems that domestic and special get you the most bang for your buck.

Re: Edp MR points vs. Freedom UR

mongstradamus — Thu, 14 Aug 2014 13:56:39 GMT

@Closingracer99 wrote:
@mongstradamus wrote:
That is main issue with MR and UR based cards, the choice of hotels isn't the greatest in the world . MR has hilton but hilton points are not valued the best and UR has Hyatt , but presence isn't the best. I wouldn't use UR points for marriot because the value is just horrendous. I think its actually less than 1 to 1. What do you do for hotels? I was thikning of picking up something like arrival+ or something.
Errr glancing at the point system it seems a bit higher then less then 1 to 1.

I think most people value it at less than one but I guess it depends how you redeem it. When I was looking at hotels in Thailand. Would only be getting .7-.8 which is worse than using to buy with points through ur portal at 1.25?

Re: Edp MR points vs. Freedom UR

Closingracer99 — Thu, 14 Aug 2014 14:03:32 GMT

Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott New York Brooklyn

181 3rd Ave, Brooklyn, NY, US, 11217

From 15,214 Points
Avg. per night
or $190.17

Much better to buy from UR portal then transfering to a Marriott rewards account because that same room is 30,000 points but for $Cash calue is cheaper at $149 on Marriott's website