Is Delta First Class or United First Class Better?

Delta or United First Class—people ask this all the time, & not without reason. Both offer solid perks, but the experience isn’t the same. One feels smoother, the other leans flashier. Some flyers chase comfort, others care more about lounge access or aircraft type. If you are in the conundrum, this breakdown by WingsTravo will clear all cloud doubts. Just real differences that matter when you’re the one in that seat. Then you will know which one actually feels better in the air.

What Do I Get in Delta First Class and United First Class?

Seats & Cabin

Delta First Class seats generally feel newer on most domestic routes. Legroom is solid, and the layout is simple. United First class seats can vary—some aircraft feel dated unless you’re upgraded to Polaris. It is not typical for domestic flights.

Service

Delta is known for tighter, more consistent service. Flight attendants are usually quick and attentive. United’s service can be hit or miss—some routes have great crews, others fall short.

Food & Drinks

Delta usually serves better meals upfront. Portions, presentation, and drink options tend to be handled better. United’s catering has improved, but still feels inconsistent.

Wi-Fi & Entertainment

Both offer seatback screens on most newer aircraft, but Delta edges ahead with reliability and smoother streaming. Wi-Fi also tends to be more stable on Delta.

Lounges

United wins here—especially if you’re a frequent flyer. Their lounge network is larger, and Polaris lounges (where available) are a big plus.

Is Delta or United Better for International Travel?

When it comes to international travel, United usually has the upper hand. Their United Polaris business class isn’t just a label—it actually shows up. Lie-flat seats, private cabins, solid bedding, and upgraded meals make long flights manageable. Plus, United has reach. More direct routes, more partners through Star Alliance, and more consistent access to long-haul aircraft that actually feel premium.

Delta at 1-800-221-1212 or 1-888-413-6950 does have Delta One Suites. And they’re great when you can get them. But that’s the issue. You are not always vowed the Suite on international routes. Seldom it is just a basic flatbed seat with no privacy. Service is steady, and crews are often friendlier, but the product doesn’t hit as hard when compared side-by-side with Polaris.

Also, Polaris lounges make Sky Clubs look like a step down. If lounge experience matters, United wins easily. In short: if you’re flying long-haul and want a solid, full-package premium experience, United delivers more often than Delta.

How Do I Request First Class on Delta?

• Purchase Delta first class seat through delta.com or the Fly Delta app.
• Use SkyMiles during booking or via "My Trips" for existing bookings.
• Medallion members apply Global/Regional Certificates when booking.
• Opt for automatic upgrades in your SkyMiles profile.
• Inquire about paid upgrades when checking in or at the gate.
• Use SkyMiles® Reserve Card. As they get priority upgrades, even without Medallion status.

Call Delta at 1-800-221-1212 or 1-888-413-6950 for upgrades if online options aren't available.

What is the Cheapest Way to Book First Class on Delta?

To reserve Delta First Class without splurging is possible. Use SkyMiles to upgrade if you’ve already got a ticket. Keep an eye on flash sales—they pop up with decent cheap fares. Being flexible with dates works wonders; flying mid-week or during off-peak seasons lowers prices. Another trick is upgrade bidding—you place a bid, and if it’s accepted, you get a First Class seat for a lower cost. If you have a Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card, you get priority boarding and sometimes free upgrades. With these methods, First Class becomes a lot more affordable without sacrificing comfort.

How to Book First Class on United Airlines?

• Purchase United First Class via united.com or the United app.
• Book with miles by logging into your MileagePlus account.
• Upgrade from economy by using miles (not available for Basic Economy).
• Premier members can use PlusPoints for upgrades.
• Look for discounted upgrade offers after booking.
• Get upgrades with certain United credit cards.

Call United at 1-800-864-8331 or 1-888-413-6950 for First Class booking if online options aren’t available.

Verdict:

If comfort and reliability are top priorities, Delta First Class edges ahead. Delta keeps it clean, quick, and reliable. Seats are solid, crews are sharp, and you usually know what to expect. United hits harder on upgrades—especially if you end up on a Polaris-equipped route. But for standard First Class? Delta just feels more polished. Delta wins for consistent domestic First Class comfort. United shines if you catch the right aircraft or care more about lounge perks. How about you know more of that by letting WingsTravo help you at 1-888-413-6950.