Knowledge Hub · Compare
Alaska vs. United
On the published numbers, Alaska carries the higher valuation, but the right answer depends on where you actually fly or stay.
At a glance
| Alaska | United | |
|---|---|---|
| TPG valuation | 1.4¢ | 1.4¢ |
| NerdWallet valuation | 1.2¢ | 1.2¢ |
| Currency | Single-program | Single-program |
| Expiration | 24 mo inactivity | Does not expire |
| Parent | Alaska Airlines | United Airlines |
Alaska Mileage Plan
Alaska is hands-on with award booking, often requiring phone calls for partner awards. Our specialists handle every Mileage Plan transaction directly with Alaska, never through automated systems.
- Cathay Pacific First Class, US to Hong Kong one-way:85,000 to 105,000miles via Cathay Pacific
- JAL First Class, US to Tokyo one-way:90,000 to 110,000miles via Japan Airlines
- Qantas Business Class, US to Australia one-way:70,000 to 90,000miles via Qantas
United MileagePlus
United runs identity verification on award redemptions and account changes. Our specialists coordinate with the account holder by phone to authorize the transaction within United standard flow.
- United Polaris Business, US to Europe one-way:75,000 to 100,000miles via United
- Lufthansa First Class via partner award:125,000 to 165,000miles via Lufthansa via United
- ANA First Class via partner award:125,000 to 165,000miles via ANA via United
When to sell either for cash
If neither balance lines up with a redemption that beats its cash value, selling is the move. The payout is personalized, so check a quote for whichever balance you are sitting on.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions, answered straight.
Independent valuations put Alaska near 1.4 cents and United near 1.4 cents. A valuation is an average, though. What you get depends on the specific redemption you can book.
Not directly. These are separate programs. Both are single-program currencies.
If you do not have a redemption that beats the cash value, selling can win for either. The payout is personalized to your balance, so request a quote to compare it against what you could book.
Ready to Cash Out Your Points?
Get your live estimate in under a minute. Most payouts complete within 1 business day.