I have 2 credit cards both with the Hilton Honors program. A visa and amex (also a corporate card for when I travel but I do not pay or receive benefits from it). I live exclusively off the amex which I pay in full every month. I've been doing this since 1999. I've had no issues with amex, Hilton was touch and go for awhile but settled down and has been steady for 5 years although the points do not stretch anywhere near as well as they used to.

I used to travel a LOT (48 weeks/year for 7 years) but more and more customers have gone remote so travel has calmed down a bit.

The Hilton points are great and I primarily use them for friends/family. I've looked at switching and since the cash back would be insignificant I'll stick with the points and keep my Hilton Gold status.

My card has been compromised twice (waiters both times) and amex has dealt with the issue efficiently and at no cost and little inconvenience to me.

I've never had any problems will billing and the auto prepay works without issue.

I'd only bother getting a branded card if you spend at least $20k/year. This will get you status and enough points for a few nights. Or if you travel frequently and can regularly (1/month+) stay at one their hotels.

Way back when my only reasoning Hilton vs Marriott is there are way more Hilton Honors branded hotels then Marriott branded. I'm not sure if this is still true.

As far as hotels go I actually try to avoid the real Marriott/Hiltons. I've been in them all over the world and they are universally pretentious. Most still charge $10/day for internet access, have uncomfortable (but tastefully decorated!) rooms and expensive yet poor quality food. There are fees for everything and the nickel/dime you to death. Where as the "lower end" chains like Garden Inn (Marriott Courtyard) often offer a better bed and many more amenities for free.