I find the probability of having a poor Hampton Inn is higher than having a poor HGI. Put another way, I've stayed in some Hampton Inns which were really very nice, but some that are not. I haven't stayed in an HGI where I've thought - well this isn't well maintained. I've complained about the state of a couple Hamptons and never an HGI. For reference, I also stay at a lot of Mariotts and find the HGI superior to the Courtyards.

In general, the HGI can be a few dollars more a night. I will pay probably up to $20 more a night for an HGI over a Hampton given my experience.

I do agree they are often very similar though - slightly better finishes and better food options at HGI in general.