SeatSpy vs Reward Flight Finder: UK's Best Award Search Tools

Overview

SeatSpy and Reward Flight Finder (RFF) are award seat search tools that help travelers find available reward flights. While they serve similar purposes, they differ significantly in their features, functionality, and user experience.

Key Features Comparison

Search Capabilities

SeatSpy

• Full year-at-a-glance calendar view

• Ability to search for up to 9 passengers simultaneously

• "Where Can I Go?" feature for route exploration (limited to BA and Virgin Atlantic)

• Comprehensive multi-airline coverage including American Airlines, Lufthansa and Etihad

Reward Flight Finder

• More limited search functionality

• Does not offer full year view

• Basic route search capabilities

• More restricted airline coverage

Alert System

SeatSpy

• Comprehensive alert service with customizable parameters

• Multiple notification channels (email, SMS, WhatsApp)

• Premium users receive hourly updates

• First Class subscribers get instant notifications

Reward Flight Finder

• Basic alert functionality

• More limited notification options

• Standard update frequency

Accuracy and Reliability

SeatSpy

• Generally reported as more accurate

• Consistent and reliable results

• Regular updates to seat availability

• Strong track record of accuracy

Reward Flight Finder

• Some reported accuracy issues

• Inconsistent results reported by users

• Historical controversy affecting user trust

• Mixed feedback on reliability

User Experience

SeatSpy

• Intuitive interface

• Easy-to-navigate website

• Fast search results

• Clear presentation of information

Reward Flight Finder

• Standard interface

• Basic functionality

• Variable search speed

• Less refined user experience

Cost-Value Analysis

SeatSpy

• Competitive pricing structure

• Better value for feature set

• Multiple subscription tiers

• Strong feature-to-price ratio

Reward Flight Finder

• Similar price points

• Less comprehensive feature set

• Basic subscription options

• Lower overall value proposition

Strengths and Weaknesses Summary

SeatSpy

Strengths

• Comprehensive search capabilities

• Robust alert system

• Multiple notification options

• Excellent accuracy

• Expanding airline coverage

Weaknesses

• Limited "Where Can I Go?" feature coverage

• Premium features require subscription

Reward Flight Finder

Strengths

• Basic functionality works well

• Familiar interface

• Established service

Weaknesses

• Limited search capabilities

• Accuracy concerns

• Historical trust issues

• Less comprehensive features

Recommendation

For most users, SeatSpy appears to be the superior choice due to its comprehensive features, better accuracy, and stronger value proposition. However, some travelers might benefit from using both services to maximize their chances of finding desired award seats, especially for complex itineraries or highly competitive routes.

The choice between the two services ultimately depends on individual needs, such as:

• Frequency of travel

• Preferred airlines

• Need for instant notifications

• Budget considerations

• Desired search flexibility

Users who frequently book award travel or need comprehensive search capabilities would likely find more value in SeatSpy, while occasional travelers might find RFF sufficient for basic searches.