Hilton Gold is probably the right choice; Hamptons are nice enough and an occasional cheap HGI stay with the free breakfast is a good bonus.

I'd seriously consider Priority Club as I personally like the average HIX bed, shower, and breakfast better than those of the average Hampton. I'm upgraded to a suite much more often at HIX than Hampton, regardless of what the program terms require. Should be able to get to Platinum without much trouble given all the promos.

Maybe start with Hilton Gold and switch over to PC later to give it a try.