Purchase Marriott Bonvoy Points: When It Makes Sense

Understanding Marriott Bonvoy Points and Their Purchase

Marriott Bonvoy points are the currency of Marriott International's loyalty programme, allowing members to redeem them for hotel stays, room upgrades, and other experiences. While earning points through stays, co-branded credit cards, and partners is the primary method, the option to directly purchase Marriott Bonvoy points is available. This facility is primarily intended for members who need a small number of additional points to complete an award booking or to take advantage of limited-time promotions where the cost per point is significantly discounted.

Buying points is usually a last resort for topping up accounts.
Promotional offers can significantly impact the value of purchasing points.
Always compare the cost of buying points against the cash price of a room.
Transferring points from partners like American Express is often a better value.
Marriott Bonvoy points can be purchased in increments.

The ability to purchase points directly from Marriott is a feature designed for flexibility, enabling members to bridge the gap between their current balance and the required amount for a desired redemption. However, it's crucial to approach this decision with a clear understanding of the economics involved. The standard rate for purchasing points can be high, making it an expensive way to acquire them unless specific circumstances, such as a bonus promotion, make the effective cost lower.

Marriott Bonvoy members can buy points in blocks, typically starting from 1,000-point increments up to a certain annual limit. The exact number of points available for purchase and the maximum limit can vary, so it is always advisable to check the official Marriott Bonvoy website for the most current details. This process is usually straightforward, accessible through the member's online account or a dedicated purchasing portal.

Before considering a purchase, it is essential to know how many points you currently possess and how many you will need. This clarity prevents overspending and ensures that the purchase aligns with your redemption goals. The number of points required for an award night varies based on the hotel category and the specific date of stay, with peak dates often demanding more points than off-peak ones.

The strategic decision to purchase Marriott Bonvoy points hinges on a careful cost-benefit analysis.

Why Would You Purchase Marriott Points?

The most common impetus for purchasing Marriott Bonvoy points is to facilitate an award booking when a member is just short of the required amount. This is particularly relevant for aspirational redemptions where cash prices might be prohibitive, or when a member identifies a specific, high-value redemption opportunity that requires immediate action.

Another significant driver is promotional offers. Marriott periodically runs campaigns where purchasing points comes with a bonus, effectively lowering the cost per point. These bonuses can transform a previously uneconomical purchase into a financially sound one, especially if the discount is substantial. For instance, a 'buy points and get a bonus' offer might provide an extra 30-50% on top of the purchased amount, making the effective rate considerably more attractive than the standard purchase price. It is during these limited-time promotions that buying points becomes a genuinely viable strategy for acquiring a significant number of points at a reduced rate.

Furthermore, some members may purchase points to take advantage of Marriott's 'Fifth Night Free' benefit on award stays. When booking five consecutive nights on points, one night (the lowest point value) is complimentary. If a member is slightly short of points for a five-night stay, purchasing the deficit could be more cost-effective than paying for the entire five nights in cash, especially if one of those nights is particularly expensive.

Finally, although less common, members might purchase points to achieve a specific Marriott Bonvoy elite status tier. While Marriott's elite status is primarily earned through nights stayed or a number of qualifying rooms, in some very rare circumstances, purchasing points might indirectly help if there's a specific promotion or a loophole that involves point redemption for benefits that contribute to status. However, this is not a standard or recommended method for status acquisition.

The decision is often driven by the immediate need to secure a specific hotel booking that might otherwise be unavailable or prohibitively expensive in cash. This urgency, combined with a favourable promotion, can make purchasing points a compelling option.

How to Purchase Marriott Bonvoy Points

Acquiring Marriott Bonvoy points directly from the loyalty programme is a straightforward process, accessible primarily through the Marriott Bonvoy website. Members need to log in to their account to initiate the purchase, which ensures the points are credited to the correct profile. This online portal is designed for ease of use, allowing members to select the number of points they wish to buy and to complete the transaction securely.

When you navigate to the 'Buy Points' section on the Marriott Bonvoy website, you will typically be presented with a calculator or a form where you can input the desired quantity of points. The system will then display the total cost, including any applicable taxes or fees. It is important to note that points are sold in fixed increments, and there might be a minimum purchase requirement, often starting at 1,000 points.

The transaction is handled by a third-party partner, Points.com, which specialises in loyalty point transactions for various programmes. This ensures a secure and efficient payment process. You will need a valid credit card or other accepted payment method to complete the purchase. Once the transaction is confirmed, the purchased points are usually credited to your Marriott Bonvoy account within a short timeframe, often within 24 hours, though sometimes it can be almost immediate.

Always verify the final cost, including any taxes or fees, before confirming your purchase.

The Purchase Process Step-by-Step

To purchase Marriott Bonvoy points, follow these general steps:

Log In to Your Marriott Bonvoy Account: Visit the official Marriott Bonvoy website and sign in using your membership credentials.
Navigate to the 'Buy Points' Section: Look for a link or menu option related to buying points, often found within the 'Account' or 'Rewards' sections.
Specify the Number of Points: Enter the quantity of points you wish to purchase. You will see the cost displayed in real-time.
Review Current Promotions: Before finalising, check if any bonus point offers or discounts are active. These are often prominently displayed on the purchase page.
Enter Payment Information: Provide your credit card details and billing address. Ensure your payment details are up to date.
Confirm and Submit: Review all details, including the total cost and the number of points you will receive (including any bonuses), then submit your order.
Check Your Account: Allow a short period for the points to appear in your Marriott Bonvoy account balance. If they do not appear within the stated timeframe, contact Marriott Bonvoy customer service.

It is worth noting that there is typically an annual limit on the number of points a member can purchase, which is designed to prevent arbitrage and ensure points are primarily earned through stays and other activities. This limit can be substantial, often in the tens or hundreds of thousands of points per year, but it is crucial to be aware of it if you plan to make multiple purchases over time.

For members outside the United States, the currency for transactions will typically be displayed in USD, although your credit card provider will handle the conversion based on the prevailing exchange rate. Always check with your bank regarding any foreign transaction fees that might apply.

Evaluating the Cost and Value of Marriott Points

The standard rate for purchasing Marriott Bonvoy points is typically set at $12.50 USD per 1,000 points, plus any applicable taxes. This translates to a base cost of 1.25 cents per point before any promotional bonuses. However, this base rate is often considered high when compared to the potential value one can derive from redeemed points. The perceived value of a Marriott Bonvoy point can fluctuate significantly, ranging from less than 1 cent to over 2 cents per point, depending on how and when the points are redeemed.

To determine if purchasing points is worthwhile, a comparative analysis is necessary. You should compare the effective cost per point when buying (especially during a promotion) against the cash rate for the desired hotel stay. If the cost of buying the necessary points is less than the cash price of the room, then purchasing points makes financial sense. For example, if a room costs £200 and requires 30,000 points, and you have 25,000 points, you need 5,000 more. If buying these 5,000 points (plus a potential bonus) costs less than the £200 cash rate, it's a good deal. However, remember to factor in the value of your existing points and any potential opportunity cost.

The effectiveness of purchasing points is directly tied to the redemption value you achieve.

Calculating the True Cost of Purchased Points

When Marriott runs a 'buy points' promotion, the effective cost per point can drop considerably. For instance, a common promotion might offer a 40% bonus on purchased points. If you buy 10,000 points and receive a 4,000-point bonus (40%), you receive 14,000 points for the price of 10,000. At the standard rate of $12.50 per 1,000 points, 10,000 points cost $125. For these $125, you receive 14,000 points. This means your effective cost per point becomes $125 / 14,000 = $0.0089, or approximately 0.89 cents per point. This is a significant reduction from the base rate of 1.25 cents per point.

When evaluating a redemption, calculate the cash price of the room and divide it by the number of points required. This gives you the cash value per point. For example, if a room is £200 and requires 30,000 points, the value per point is £200 / 30,000 = £0.0067 per point (or 0.67 cents per point, assuming a rough exchange rate). If you could acquire those 30,000 points for less than £201 (£0.0067 * 30,000), then the redemption is valuable.

It is also important to consider the redemption opportunities available. Marriott Bonvoy offers a wide range of hotels, from Category 1 (starting at 7,500 points per night) to Category 8 (starting at 40,000 points per night for standard rooms, and potentially more for premium suites or during peak times). The highest value redemptions are often found in high-cost luxury hotels or during peak demand periods when cash rates are exceptionally high. Conversely, using points for standard rooms at mid-tier hotels during off-peak times might yield a lower per-point value.

The 'Fifth Night Free' benefit further enhances the value of points. When booking five consecutive award nights, the lowest-priced night is free. This effectively reduces the average cost per night by 20% and increases the overall value of your points, making it an excellent strategy for longer stays. If purchasing points to complete such a booking, this benefit should be factored into the overall calculation.

Always remember that points are a depreciating asset; their value can be devalued by Marriott through changes to the award chart or redemption rates. Therefore, it is generally best to redeem points when you find a good opportunity rather than hoarding them indefinitely.

Strategic Considerations: When Buying Points Makes Sense

Purchasing Marriott Bonvoy points is rarely the most cost-effective way to accumulate a large balance. However, it can be a strategically sound move in specific, well-defined scenarios. The primary justification for buying points is to bridge a small gap for an imminent, high-value award redemption, especially when combined with promotional offers that significantly reduce the per-point cost. This approach avoids paying a premium cash rate for a room that could be obtained more economically using points, provided the purchase price is favourable.

For instance, if you have 45,000 Marriott Bonvoy points and need 50,000 for a specific award night that costs £400 in cash, you only need 5,000 additional points. If a 'buy points' promotion offers a 50% bonus, purchasing 5,000 points would grant you 7,500 points. Let's assume the standard rate ($12.50 per 1,000 points) applies before the bonus. You would pay for 5,000 points, costing $62.50. With a 50% bonus, you'd receive 7,500 points. If the effective cost per point is now below £0.01 (approximately $0.0125), then buying these points is cheaper than paying £400 cash. The key is that the bonus makes the per-point cost competitive.

Securing a high-value redemption during a bonus points promotion is the most common reason to purchase Marriott points.

Maximising Value with Point Purchases

A crucial factor is the 'Fifth Night Free' award benefit. When booking five consecutive nights on points, one night is complimentary. If you are just short of points for a five-night stay, purchasing the deficit can be significantly cheaper than paying cash for one or more nights, especially if the cash rate for one of those nights is high. Let's say you need 160,000 points for a five-night stay (with the cheapest night valued at 30,000 points). If you have 150,000 points and need 10,000, purchasing them during a 50% bonus promotion would cost you for 10,000 points ($125), giving you 15,000 points. This is more than enough to cover the deficit, and you benefit from the fifth night free, making the overall redemption extremely cost-effective.

Consider also the strategic transfer of points from other loyalty programmes. For example, American Express Membership Rewards points can be transferred to Marriott Bonvoy, often at a 3:1 ratio (with potential transfer bonuses). If you have a substantial balance of Amex points, transferring them might be more favourable than buying Marriott points directly, especially if you can achieve a better effective rate through transfer bonuses. However, if you have a small, urgent shortfall and no transferable points, purchasing might be the only viable option.

What to Compare:

Cash price of the room vs. cost of purchasing required points (factoring in bonuses).
Value per point achieved through redemption vs. cost per point when buying.
Alternative redemption options (e.g., using a different loyalty programme, or cash).
The 'Fifth Night Free' benefit's impact on the overall points needed.

Members should also be aware of the annual purchase limit. If you plan to buy points regularly, ensure you do not exceed this limit, as you will be unable to purchase more until the following year. Always check the Marriott Bonvoy website for the most current terms and conditions regarding point purchases, including any limits and active promotions.

It is generally not advisable to purchase points speculatively or in large quantities without a clear redemption goal, as the standard purchase price is often higher than the average redemption value of a Marriott Bonvoy point.

Alternatives to Purchasing Marriott Bonvoy Points

Before resorting to purchasing Marriott Bonvoy points directly, several alternative strategies can help you accumulate the necessary points or achieve your desired accommodation without incurring the often-high cost of buying them. These alternatives often provide better value or more flexibility, depending on your circumstances and existing loyalty balances.

The most common and often most rewarding method is earning points through hotel stays. Every qualifying stay at a Marriott Bonvoy participating hotel earns base points, and elite members receive bonus points, further accelerating accumulation. Maximising points earned per dollar spent is key. Furthermore, booking directly through Marriott Bonvoy channels ensures that you receive all the benefits and points associated with your membership.

Leveraging credit card welcome bonuses and everyday spending can rapidly build your Marriott Bonvoy point balance.

Exploring Other Earning and Transfer Methods

Co-branded Marriott Bonvoy credit cards issued in various markets, such as the UK, are a significant avenue for earning points. These cards typically offer substantial welcome bonuses upon meeting initial spending requirements, often equivalent to hundreds of pounds worth of hotel stays. They also provide ongoing earning opportunities, with bonus points awarded for spending at Marriott properties, and a standard rate for all other eligible purchases. Some cards may also offer benefits like free night awards annually, which can be more valuable than purchasing points.

A vital alternative, especially for those with other flexible rewards currencies, is transferring points from partner programmes. For example, American Express Membership Rewards points can be transferred to Marriott Bonvoy. The standard transfer ratio is 3:1, meaning 3 Amex points become 1 Marriott point. While this sounds less favourable than direct purchase rates at face value, Amex frequently offers transfer bonuses (e.g., 20-30% extra Marriott points when transferring from Amex). During such bonuses, 3 Amex points might yield 3.9 Marriott points, making the effective cost of a Marriott point much lower than buying them directly. Always check for active transfer bonuses before making a decision.

Other travel rewards programmes might also partner with Marriott Bonvoy or offer redemption options for Marriott stays. While direct airline partners like British Airways often have their own complex redemption charts, cross-programme synergies can sometimes be found, though they are less common for Marriott than for some other hotel chains. It is worth investigating if your airline miles can be converted or used in a way that indirectly benefits your Marriott Bonvoy balance.

Consider these alternatives:

Earn through stays: Maximise points on all qualifying Marriott Bonvoy hotel stays.
Use co-branded credit cards: Take advantage of welcome bonuses and ongoing earning rates.
Transfer flexible points: Convert points from programmes like American Express Membership Rewards, especially during bonus periods.
Look for Marriott Bonvoy promotions: Participate in limited-time offers for bonus points on stays or specific activities.
Utilise existing point balances: If you have points in other hotel programmes, check if they can be redeemed for Marriott stays or transferred.

If your goal is to achieve a higher Marriott Bonvoy elite status, purchasing points is generally not the most efficient method. Elite status is primarily earned through nights stayed, nights stayed in premium rooms, or total nights. While points can sometimes be used for upgrades or other perks that might indirectly help, they do not count towards elite night credits. Therefore, focusing on earning stays or meeting the required number of nights is paramount for status progression. Marriott's 'Status Match' programme also offers a way to gain elite status if you hold status with a competing hotel chain, which is a more direct route than point acquisition.

Understanding Marriott Bonvoy Elite Status and Points

Marriott Bonvoy's loyalty programme is structured to reward frequent guests with elite status tiers, each offering progressively better benefits. These tiers are primarily earned based on the number of nights stayed within a calendar year, although alternative methods like qualifying room spend or holding a specific co-branded credit card can sometimes contribute. The points earned through stays, credit card spend, and promotions are the currency for free nights, upgrades, and other experiences, while elite status enhances the value of these redemptions and provides additional perks during stays.

Understanding the interplay between points and elite status is fundamental to maximising the benefits of the Marriott Bonvoy programme. Elite status holders often receive bonus points on their paid and award stays, accelerating their path to future redemptions. For example, a Platinum Elite member earns a 50% bonus on base points earned during eligible stays, meaning that every dollar spent on a qualifying stay contributes more towards free nights and other rewards.

Elite status significantly enhances the value derived from Marriott Bonvoy points.

How Elite Status Benefits Point Redemptions

Elite members benefit from benefits such as room upgrades (subject to availability), late check-out, and welcome gifts, which can include bonus points. These perks can make an award stay feel more luxurious and valuable, even if the base number of points required for the redemption remains the same. For instance, receiving a complimentary room upgrade to a suite on an award booking can add considerable value that would otherwise require a much higher cash payment or a substantial number of points for a premium room.

The 'Fifth Night Free' benefit, available on award stays of five consecutive nights, is also a key aspect of point redemption strategy. This benefit applies to all members, but its impact is amplified for elite members who might be earning bonus points on their paid nights or receiving other perks that enhance their overall experience. When calculating the value of purchasing points, one must consider the potential savings realised through this benefit, especially if acquiring the final few points needed for a five-night redemption.

While purchasing points is primarily about acquiring redemption currency, it's important to note that purchased points do not count towards earning elite status. Elite status is earned through physical nights stayed or qualifying room revenue. Therefore, if your primary goal is to achieve a higher elite tier, purchasing points will not directly assist you. Instead, you should focus on booking actual stays. However, if you are an elite member and need a small number of points to top up for a redemption, buying them can be a sensible choice to leverage your existing status benefits.

Marriott Bonvoy's 'Status Match' programme offers an alternative route to elite status. If you hold elite status with a competing hotel loyalty programme, you may be able to apply for a status match. This allows you to enjoy Marriott elite benefits without needing to meet the usual stay requirements, which can be a significant advantage for travellers who frequently switch between hotel brands. This is a more direct and often more beneficial strategy for achieving elite status than trying to gain it indirectly through point purchases.

The value of Marriott Bonvoy points is also influenced by the redemption options available. While standard award nights are the most common redemption, points can also be used for room upgrades, experiences, and even towards certain retail purchases. The Marriott Bonvoy portfolio includes a vast array of brands, from the luxurious Ritz-Carlton and St. Regis to more accessible brands like Fairfield Inn and Courtyard. The points required for an award night vary by hotel category, with higher-tier hotels demanding more points but often offering a higher cash value, thus potentially increasing the return on invested points.

Risks and Considerations When Buying Points

While purchasing Marriott Bonvoy points can be a useful tactic, it is not without its risks and requires careful consideration. The most significant risk is overpaying for points that do not yield a good return on investment. The standard rate for buying points is often higher than the average value one can achieve through redemption, meaning that unless a substantial bonus is offered or you are topping up for a very high-value redemption, you might be spending more than necessary.

Marriott Bonvoy, like all loyalty programmes, reserves the right to change its terms and conditions, including redemption rates and the value of its points. Devaluations can occur, meaning that the number of points required for an award night could increase, or the effective value of your points could decrease. If you purchase a large number of points and then a devaluation occurs before you redeem them, your investment could diminish in value. This is a inherent risk with any loyalty currency, but it is amplified when you purchase points rather than earn them organically.

Always be aware of the potential for points devaluation by the loyalty programme.

Potential Pitfalls to Avoid

One common pitfall is buying points speculatively without a concrete redemption plan. Loyalty points should ideally be redeemed relatively soon after purchase, especially if bought during a promotion, to maximise their value and minimise the risk of devaluation. Holding onto purchased points for extended periods exposes them to potential changes in the programme's value structure. This is why purchasing points is best suited for topping up an existing balance for an immediate booking rather than accumulating a large balance from scratch.

Another consideration is the annual limit on purchasing points. Marriott Bonvoy sets a maximum number of points a member can purchase each calendar year. If you are not aware of this limit and attempt to make a purchase that exceeds it, the transaction will be declined. This can be frustrating if you are in a hurry to secure an award booking. It is advisable to check your current purchase history and the annual limit on the Marriott Bonvoy website to avoid disappointment.

The terms and conditions of point purchases can also be complex. For example, purchased points are often non-refundable and non-transferable, except under specific circumstances defined by Marriott. This means that once you buy them, you are generally committed to using them within the Marriott Bonvoy programme. Always read the fine print before completing a transaction.

Key risks and considerations:

Overpayment: Paying more for points than their redemption value.
Devaluation: The risk that Marriott Bonvoy may reduce the value of points in the future.
Non-refundable: Purchased points are typically non-refundable.
Annual Purchase Limit: Exceeding the yearly maximum number of points you can buy.
Lack of Elite Credit: Purchased points do not count towards elite status qualification.
Opportunity Cost: Funds used to buy points could potentially be invested elsewhere for a better return.

For members seeking Marriott Bonvoy gym membership or specific hotel amenities like the Worsley Marriott gym membership, purchasing points will not help. These are separate offerings, and point acquisition is irrelevant for them. Similarly, if you are looking for a Marriott credit card UK or considering how to exchange points with partners like British Airways voucher exchange for Marriott points, these are distinct strategies that require separate research.

Ultimately, purchasing Marriott Bonvoy points should be a calculated decision, undertaken only when the economics are favourable and the need is clear. It is a tool for fine-tuning your loyalty account, not a primary method for accumulating rewards.

The Role of Marriott Bonvoy Credit Cards and Transfers

Marriott Bonvoy credit cards, particularly those available in the UK and other international markets, represent one of the most potent tools for accumulating Bonvoy points and enhancing your loyalty programme experience. These cards are designed to reward cardholders with points on everyday spending and offer significant benefits that often outweigh the cost of purchasing points directly. Beyond earning, they can also provide pathways to elite status and valuable redemption opportunities.

Cards like the Marriott Bonvoy American Express card (where available) or similar offerings often come with substantial welcome bonuses. These bonuses can provide tens of thousands of Marriott Bonvoy points after meeting an initial spending threshold, which is frequently more points than a member might need to top up an account for a specific booking. This welcome bonus alone can be worth several free nights at mid-tier hotels, offering an exceptional return on initial spend.

Co-branded credit cards are typically a more sustainable and rewarding way to earn Marriott Bonvoy points than direct purchases.

Leveraging Credit Cards for Point Accumulation

Ongoing spending on these credit cards earns points at accelerated rates on Marriott Bonvoy hotel purchases, and often on other categories like dining or travel. This means that your regular expenses can steadily build your Bonvoy balance. Many Marriott co-branded cards also offer an annual free night award after your account anniversary, provided you meet a minimum spend requirement. This free night award, often valued at a specific point threshold (e.g., worth up to 40,000 points), can be more valuable than the cost of purchasing a similar number of points, especially if you strategically use it at a hotel where cash rates are high.

Furthermore, some Marriott Bonvoy credit cards can help members achieve or maintain elite status. For instance, certain cards may grant a set number of elite night credits each year, bringing you closer to Silver, Gold, or Platinum status without needing to stay as many nights. This is a significant benefit, as higher elite tiers unlock more valuable perks like room upgrades, late check-out, and enhanced earning rates, all of which amplify the value of your stays and your points.

Beyond co-branded cards, the strategic transfer of flexible points from other programmes, such as American Express Membership Rewards, is a critical alternative to purchasing Marriott points. As mentioned previously, while the base transfer ratio might seem less favourable, frequent transfer bonuses can make this route highly lucrative. For example, a 30% bonus on transfers from Amex means that for every 1,000 Amex points, you receive 1,300 Marriott points. If you have a large balance of Amex points, this can be a far more efficient way to acquire thousands of Marriott points than buying them directly, especially if you have an urgent need.

Key benefits of credit cards and transfers:

Welcome Bonuses: Substantial point grants upon meeting initial spend.
Accelerated Earning: Bonus points on hotel stays and other spending categories.
Annual Free Night Awards: A valuable redemption option often exceeding purchase cost.
Elite Status Benefits: Elite night credits or direct status grants.
Flexible Point Transfers: Strategic conversions from other programmes, especially with bonuses.

When considering if you should purchase Marriott points, always evaluate your current credit card rewards, transferable points balances, and any upcoming promotions from both Marriott and its partners. These avenues often present a more cost-effective and value-driven approach to building your Marriott Bonvoy point balance than direct purchase.

Frequently Asked Questions About Purchasing Marriott Points

Here are answers to common questions regarding the purchase of Marriott Bonvoy points, covering key aspects of value, process, and alternatives.

What is the standard cost to purchase Marriott Bonvoy points?

The standard rate is typically $12.50 USD per 1,000 points, plus applicable taxes. This equates to 1.25 cents per point before any promotional bonuses are applied, which can significantly alter the effective cost.

When is the best time to purchase Marriott Bonvoy points?

The optimal time is during promotional periods when Marriott offers bonus points on purchases, effectively reducing the per-point cost. Always compare the promotional purchase price against the cash rate for your desired stay.

Can I transfer points from other loyalty programmes to Marriott Bonvoy?

Yes, points from programmes like American Express Membership Rewards can be transferred to Marriott Bonvoy, often at a 3:1 ratio. Transfer bonuses can make this a more cost-effective method than direct purchase.

Do purchased Marriott points count towards elite status?

No, points purchased directly from Marriott do not count towards earning or maintaining elite status. Elite status is earned through nights stayed or qualifying room revenue.

What are the risks associated with buying Marriott Bonvoy points?

Risks include overpaying if there isn't a bonus, potential future devaluation of points by Marriott, and purchased points typically being non-refundable and not counting towards status.

How many Marriott points can I purchase in a year?

Marriott Bonvoy sets an annual limit on the number of points a member can purchase. You should check the official Marriott Bonvoy website for the most current maximum purchase limit per member.

Is it better to buy points or use a Marriott co-branded credit card?

Generally, using a co-branded credit card for earning points, particularly through welcome bonuses and annual free night awards, offers better long-term value and additional benefits compared to purchasing points directly.