If you visit Las Vegas more than once a year, choosing the right loyalty program can save you hundreds or even thousands of dollars. MGM Rewards and Caesars Rewards are the two dominant programs on the Strip, controlling about 70% of all hotel rooms.
But which one is actually better? The answer depends on how you play, how often you visit, and what benefits matter most. We've used both programs extensively and here's our honest comparison for 2026.
Program Overview
| Feature | MGM Rewards | Caesars Rewards |
|---|---|---|
| Las Vegas Properties | 13 (Bellagio, Aria, Cosmopolitan, MGM Grand, Mandalay Bay, Park MGM, Vdara, Luxor, Excalibur, NYNY, Delano, NoMad, Mirage) | 9 (Caesars Palace, Paris, Horseshoe, Flamingo, LINQ, Harrah's, Rio, Planet Hollywood, Cromwell) |
| Tiers | Sapphire, Pearl, Gold, Platinum, Noir | Gold, Platinum, Diamond, Diamond Plus, Diamond Elite, Seven Stars |
| Earning (non-gaming) | 1 point per $1 spent | 5 credits per $1 spent |
| Point value | ~$0.004-0.006 per point | ~$0.002-0.004 per credit |
| Status match | Yes (from Caesars, Wyndham, others) | Yes (from MGM, Hyatt, others) |
Mid-Tier Benefits Comparison
| Benefit | MGM Gold | Caesars Diamond |
|---|---|---|
| Room upgrades | Priority (not guaranteed) | Guaranteed (subject to availability) |
| Resort fee waiver | No | No (Diamond Plus and above) |
| Buffet access | 15% discount | 2 free buffet passes/year |
| Free parking | Yes (self-park) | Yes (self-park + valet at some) |
| Gift | Annual celebration dinner | $100 Celebration Dinner |
Free Room Strategies
MGM Rewards: myVEGAS App + Offers
- Download the myVEGAS slots app and earn loyalty points by playing free mobile games
- Redeem points for 1-2 night complimentary stays (no gambling required)
- Check your Offers tab in the MGM app weekly for discounted/comped room offers
Caesars Rewards: Introductory Offers
- New members often receive aggressive introductory offers (3-night stays for $50-100 total)
- Diamond members receive monthly offers that frequently include comped rooms
- Caesars tends to be more generous with dining credits and show tickets
Our Recommendation
| If You... | Choose | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Visit 1-2x per year | Sign up for both | Use whichever sends better offers |
| Prefer luxury hotels | MGM Rewards | Bellagio, Aria, Cosmopolitan are unmatched |
| Want the best value | Caesars Rewards | More aggressive offers, better mid-tier perks |
| Are a serious gambler | MGM Rewards | Better comp ratios for table game players |
| Travel with family | Caesars Rewards | More family-friendly properties |
Bottom line: Sign up for both (they're free) and concentrate your play at one to build tier status faster. For most visitors, MGM Rewards offers slightly better overall value due to superior properties.
Program details reflect 2026 terms. Both programs update benefits annually — check official websites for current tier requirements.
About the Author
Vegas Editorial Team
Our Vegas Editorial Team combines over 15 years of collective Las Vegas travel experience. We visit the city quarterly to verify pricing, test new venues, and update our recommendations based on firsthand experience.
Sources & Methodology
This article was researched using the following sources:
- •Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA)
- •Nevada Tourism Commission
- •Federal Trade Commission (FTC) consumer advisories
Editorial Standards
Our content is independently researched and regularly updated. Prices and availability are verified at the time of publication but may change. We recommend confirming details directly with service providers before booking. This article may contain affiliate links — see our editorial policy for details.
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