AAdvantage Executive vs Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant

AAdvantage Executive
$595/yr
5.5/10
VS

Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant
$650/yr
6.0/10
Quick Answer
AAdvantage Executive charges $595/yr with 1X base rewards. Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant charges $650/yr with 1X base rewards. AAdvantage Executive offers better overall value for most spenders when comparing fees, rewards, and benefits side by side.
Apply for AAdvantage Executive →
PointsPick may earn a commission. Disclosure
Apply for Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant →
PointsPick may earn a commission. Disclosure
Winner by Category
Annual Fees
AAdvantage Executive
Lower annual fee ($595 vs $650)
Rewards Earning
Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant
4 earning categories
Benefits & Protection
See card details
Visit each card's review for full benefits list
Statement Credits
Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant
$400 in annual credits
Flexibility
Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant
Transferable points to airline/hotel partners
OUR PICK
AAdvantage Executive wins for most people
The $55 fee difference is hard to justify unless you maximize premium benefits.
Apply for AAdvantage ExecutivePREMIUM PICK
Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant wins for heavy spenders
If you can offset the higher fee with credits and perks, this card delivers more value.
Apply for Marriott Bonvoy BrilliantRewards Earning: Detailed Comparison
AAdvantage Executive
| American Airlines purchases | 4.0X |
| Everything else | 1.0X |
Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant
| Marriott Bonvoy hotels | 6.0X |
| US restaurants | 3.0X |
| Flights (direct) | 3.0X |
| Everything else | 2.0X |