Hilton Honors American Express Surpass Card vs Barclays GM Rewards Card: Which Earns More?
The verdict
On typical spending the Hilton Honors American Express Surpass Card nets $1,042 a year after fees, $178 more than the Barclays GM Rewards Card at $864. That flips at about $1,100/month of spending, where the Barclays GM Rewards Card takes the lead.
Who earns more, by the numbers
| Spending level | Hilton Honors American Express Surpass Card | Barclays GM Rewards Card | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Light spender ($1,200/mo) | $448/yr | $432/yr | Hilton Honors American Express Surpass Card |
| Typical spender ($2,400/mo) | $1,042/yr | $864/yr | Hilton Honors American Express Surpass Card |
| Heavy spender ($4,500/mo) | $2,086/yr | $1,620/yr | Hilton Honors American Express Surpass Card |
Net of annual fees, typical category mix at baseline point values. The winner flips at about $1,100/month of spending.
Hilton Honors American Express Surpass Card
American Express
2.8/5
Annual Fee:$150
APR:22.49%-30.49% variable
Welcome Bonus: 130,000 Hilton Honors bonus points after $3,000 in purchases in 3 months
Rewards: 12X Hilton, 6X restaurants/supermarkets/gas, 3X everything else
EARNS MORE ON TYPICAL SPEND
The tables above are computed from each card's typed rewards rates and current
fees, on the same spending profiles used across the site. Editorial context to
follow.
FAQ
Which is better, the Hilton Honors American Express Surpass Card or the Barclays GM Rewards Card?▼
On typical spending the Hilton Honors American Express Surpass Card nets $1,042 a year after fees, $178 more than the Barclays GM Rewards Card at $864. That flips at about $1,100/month of spending, where the Barclays GM Rewards Card takes the lead.
What is the annual fee difference between the Hilton Honors American Express Surpass Card and the Barclays GM Rewards Card?▼
The Barclays GM Rewards Card charges no annual fee, versus $150 for the Hilton Honors American Express Surpass Card — a $150 difference every year.
Which has the better welcome bonus?▼
The Hilton Honors American Express Surpass Card, at 130,000 points (~$1,300) as of 2026-07-29. Bonuses change often — each card's page carries the date we last recorded it.