Valuation
A point isn't worth the same to everyone. Set how you redeem so rankings match your reality — every number below still feeds the optimizer.
CardWise converts points into dollars so it can rank cards. Your redemption style changes those dollars — pick it once below, then tweak any program if you have a personal number.
STEP 1
How do you usually redeem?
This is the big lever. It can flip which card wins on travel and dining.
STEP 2
Fine-tune point values
Optional. Leave blank to use the balanced defaults above. Override only when you know what a point is worth to you.
Transferable currencies
Flexible points you can move to airlines and hotels
Amex Membership Rewards
Default at balanced: 1.50¢ per point
Why this value
Weak as cash (0.6¢) — the value is in transfers. Rakuten payouts can land here too.
Chase Ultimate Rewards
Default at balanced: 1.50¢ per point
Why this value
Points Boost: select Chase Travel redemptions run up to 1.5–2¢/pt (legacy 1.25/1.5¢ into 2027). Hyatt transfers drop to 4:3 for NEW cardholders (existing keep 1:1 until Oct 1, 2026) — the aspirational value takes a haircut.
Capital One Miles
Default at balanced: 1.30¢ per point
Why this value
Portal/cash redemptions are weak (0.5–1¢) — these miles are for people who transfer to airline partners.
Citi ThankYou Points
Default at balanced: 1.40¢ per point
Why this value
Full transfer partners need a fee card (Strata Premier); otherwise best at 1¢ cash.
Wells Fargo Rewards
Default at balanced: 1.20¢ per point
U.S. Bank Points
Default at balanced: 1.20¢ per point
Bilt Points
Default at balanced: 1.50¢ per point
Why this value
Elite transfer roster (Hyatt, American, United) — and the only points you can earn on rent with no fee.
Airline & hotel currencies
Usually worth less unless you redeem in that program
Delta SkyMiles
Default at balanced: 1.10¢ per point
United MileagePlus
Default at balanced: 1.20¢ per point
Hilton Honors
Default at balanced: 0.50¢ per point
Marriott Bonvoy
Default at balanced: 0.70¢ per point
World of Hyatt
Default at balanced: 1.70¢ per point
Alaska Mileage Plan
Default at balanced: 1.40¢ per point
Southwest Rapid Rewards
Default at balanced: 1.40¢ per point