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Delta vs. United
On the published numbers, United carries the higher valuation, but the right answer depends on where you actually fly or stay.
At a glance
| Delta | United | |
|---|---|---|
| TPG valuation | 1.2¢ | 1.4¢ |
| NerdWallet valuation | 1.2¢ | 1.2¢ |
| Currency | Single-program | Single-program |
| Expiration | Does not expire | Does not expire |
| Parent | Delta Air Lines | United Airlines |
Delta SkyMiles
Delta is one of the more vigilant programs around point sales. Our specialists handle every SkyMiles transaction through carefully structured award redemptions that mirror normal high-volume traveler patterns.
- Delta One Suites, US to Europe one-way:75,000 to 120,000miles via Delta
- Air France/KLM Business, Europe one-way:60,000 to 90,000miles via Air France or KLM
- Korean Air Business, US to Seoul:90,000 to 135,000miles via Korean Air
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 Delta near 1.2 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.
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