Southwest vs United: Which is Better?

Southwest Airlines offers low fares, free bags, and flexibility, while United provides global reach, premium cabins, and elite traveler benefits.

Southwest vs. United Airlines – Which One is Right for You? Are you all about budget-friendly travel with free checked bags, or do you prefer global routes and premium perks? Southwest keeps it simple with low fares and flexible policies, while United offers luxury and worldwide connectivity. It all comes down to what matters most—affordability or premium service. Which airline wins your journey?

Overview of United Airlines & Southwest Airlines

• Southwest Airlines

Southwest Airlines, headquartered in Dallas, Texas, has been a trusted name in U.S. air travel since 1971. Operating an all-Boeing 737 fleet, it connects 121 airports across 11 countries. With low fares, no change fees, and free checked bags, Southwest makes travel affordable, hassle-free, and customer-friendly.

• United Airlines

Based in Chicago, Illinois, United Airlines operates 4,500+ daily flights to 210+ U.S. and 120+ international destinations. With major hubs nationwide and as a Star Alliance founding member, it offers seamless global access to nearly 130 countries, catering to business and leisure travelers with premium services and elite perks.

Is United better than Southwest?

Choosing United Airlines vs. Southwest Airlines depends on what matters most to you. United offers premium cabins, international routes, and elite perks, making it reliable for travelers seeking a full-service experience. On the other hand, Southwest focuses on budget-friendly fares, free checked bags, and flexible policies, perfect for those who value affordability and simplicity.

So, which airline is right for you? Let's break down Southwest vs. United Airlines to help you decide:

Read more: American Airlines vs Southwest: Which is Better?

Pricing and ticket options

Airfare is just the beginning—baggage, seat selection, and change fees can add up fast. Comparing Southwest Airlines vs. United Airlines, these small differences can affect your budget and experience. Let's break it down to find the best fit for you.

• Baggage & Seat Selection Fees

• Flight Change & Cancellation Fees

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FlyO Tip: If you want low fares, free bags, and flexibility, Southwest is the better choice. But if you prefer premium service, global routes, and loyalty perks, United might be a better fit.

Seating options

Comfort varies by airline—some keep it simple, while others offer more options. Southwest and United take different approaches to cabin classes, but what truly sets them apart? Let's compare and find out.

• Southwest Airlines

✅ Open Seating – No assigned seats; choose any available one when you board. 
✅ No First or Business Class – All seats are standard, with extra legroom in exit rows. 
✅ Boarding Groups – Assigned A, B, or C based on check-in time or EarlyBird Check-In purchase. 
✅ Family & Priority Boarding – Families with kids under six board after Group A. Business Select boards first.

FlyO Tip: Check in exactly 24 hours before departure or buy EarlyBird Check-In for better seat choices.

• United Airlines

➤ Basic Economy: Seat assigned at check-in, no upgrades, no carry-on (personal item only), boards last. 
➤ Economy & Economy Plus: Free carry-on, paid seat selection, and extra legroom in Economy Plus. 
➤ First & Business Class: Spacious seats, priority boarding, premium meals, and lounge access (Polaris for international).

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Routes & destinations

When comparing United vs. Southwest Airlines, the right choice depends on your travel plans. United offers a vast global network, while Southwest focuses on affordable, domestic-friendly travel with select international destinations.

Let's take a look at the key routes & destinations of Southwest vs. United Airlines:

• United Airlines

✔ Domestic Routes: 210+ U.S. cities 
✔ International Reach: 120+ destinations across five continents 
✔ Popular Destinations: Europe, Asia, Australia, South America

• Southwest Airlines

✔ Domestic Routes: 120+ U.S. airports 
✔ International Reach: 11 countries, primarily in the Caribbean, Mexico & Central America 
✔ Popular Destinations: Mexico, Cuba, Aruba, Belize, Costa Rica

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Reliability

When it comes to reliability, United and Southwest take different approaches. United is a full-service airline with an extensive network, while Southwest focuses on simplicity and efficiency. Let's see how they compare to Southwest vs. United Airlines:

• Southwest Airlines

✔ On-Time Performance: Strong, but delays can occur due to its point-to-point network. 
✔ Flight Cancellations: Low overall, though weather and operational issues can disrupt schedules. 
✔ Customer Satisfaction: Highly rated for friendly service, free checked bags, and no change fees. 
✔ Awards: Best low-cost carrier & top customer service.

• United Airlines

✔ On-Time Performance: Good, but ranks slightly lower than competitors. 
✔ Flight Cancellations: Higher due to its hub-and-spoke system. 
✔ Customer Satisfaction: Improving, but still behind Southwest. 
✔ Awards: Recognized for business travel perks and global reach.

Here's an overview of the performance metrics: United vs. Southwest

Southwest wins on flexibility and customer satisfaction, while United offers better global reach and premium perks.

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Loyalty programs

United MileagePlus offers global reach and elite perks, while Southwest Rapid Rewards provides flexible redemptions, unlimited reward seats, and a companion pass.

Let's know more about the Southwest Rapid Rewards vs. United MileagePlus:

• United MileagePlus

United's MileagePlus program lets members earn miles on flights, partner airlines, and everyday flight purchases. United miles never expire and can be redeemed for flights, seat upgrades, hotel stays, and more. Higher-tier members get free upgrades, priority boarding, and lounge access.

• Southwest Rapid Rewards

Southwest's Rapid Rewards program is known for its simplicity and flexibility. Members earn points on flights and partner purchases, which can be easily redeemed for flights, hotels, and rental cars—with no blackout dates. Perks include:

✅ Unlimited reward seats 
✅ Points never expire 
✅ Companion Pass for free flights with a designated traveler 
✅ A-List status for priority boarding and bonus points

Credit Card Availability

Both United and Southwest offer co-branded credit cards with valuable perks, from earning rewards on purchases to travel benefits like free checked bags and priority boarding.

Here's a detailed breakdown of Southwest vs. United Airlines:

1. United Airlines Credit Cards

• Cards Available: United℠ Explorer, United Quest℠, United Club℠ Infinite
• Earning Rewards: MileagePlus® miles on everyday purchases, with bonus miles for United flights
• Perks: Free checked bags, priority boarding, airport lounge access (select cards)

1. Southwest Airlines Credit Cards

• Cards Available: Southwest Rapid Rewards® Plus, Southwest Rapid Rewards® Premier, Southwest Rapid Rewards® Priority
• Earning Rewards: Rapid Rewards points on purchases, with bonus points for Southwest flights
• Perks: Free checked bags, early boarding, anniversary points, no blackout dates

📌 Which one is better? United vs. Southwest credit cards offer broader travel perks, while Southwest's focus on flexible rewards and free bags makes it ideal for budget-conscious flyers.

Customer Service and Support

When it comes to customer service and support, both United Airlines and Southwest Airlines have their strengths.

• United Airlines

United provides 24/7 support via phone, online chat, and airport staff as a full-service global airline. They assist with special needs, elite status perks, and international travel, but customer service reviews can be mixed, with occasional long wait times.

• Southwest Airlines

Southwest is known for its friendly and hassle-free customer service. Their no-change-fee policy, easy cancellation process, and approachable staff make for a more personal and flexible experience. Customers often praise their responsiveness, especially when handling flight changes.

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Read more: Delta vs. Southwest Airlines: Which is Better?

How to Find the Cheapest Flights on United vs. Southwest?

Want the best deals on United or Southwest Airlines flights? Book early, set fare alerts, and use fare calendars for the lowest prices. Here's how to book Southwest vs. United step by step:

1️⃣ Visit their website – Go to united.com or southwest.com to start your search.

2️⃣ Enter your trip details – Add important details like departure and arrival cities, dates, and the number of passengers.

3️⃣ Find the lowest fares – Use United's "Best Fares" tool or Southwest's "Low Fare Calendar" to spot the cheapest flights.

4️⃣ Choose your flight – Compare ticket prices, baggage policies, and seat options.

5️⃣ Book and pay – Fill in traveler details, select any extras, and complete your booking.

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Which airline is better for your next journey: Southwest or United?

The best airline depends on your travel priorities! Southwest Airlines is ideal for budget-conscious travelers, offering free checked bags, no change fees, and flexible policies. Meanwhile, United Airlines provides a wider international network, premium seating options, and elite loyalty benefits—perfect for those seeking comfort and global connectivity.

Final Thoughts on United vs. Southwest – Which One Should You Choose?

Your choice between Southwest vs. United Airlines depends on what matters most—budget, flexibility, or premium perks. Southwest stands out with affordable fares, free checked bags, and no change fees, while United offers a global network, premium seating, and loyalty perks. No matter your pick, finding the best deal is key!

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