What is the best program, Membership (Amex), Ultimate (Chase), or ThankYou Rewards (Citi)?

I am looking for a program where I can earn points and have the freedom to transfer them directly to an airline and pay no annual fee for the card. I know Amex has a no fee card with Membership Rewards. But I don't know if Amex is still the best program to go with so I am asking for opinions.

Ultimately am looking to accumulate airfare to Brisbane for 3 in Business Class. I did this 12 years ago and am looking to start over again.

Thanks