The GH is obviously the nicer hotel. It is the best airport hotel I've ever stayed at and one of the best GHs in the US probably. However, I find the HR at SFO to be a perfectly fine hotel. I've never had an issue with the shuttle, with the caveat being it can get packed in the early AM departing the hotel. The rooms are showing their age but are still comfortable, IMO. If on a tight overnight, I do think it's justified to splurge on the GH. If a longer layover, the HR comes into play more, personally. I always enjoy walking along the bay watching SFO arrivals and departures.