As a UA 1k for several years who shifted to WN about 18 months ago I agree with the OP's findings.

Especially important to me personally are 1) the schedule convenience of having lots of flights per day on short-haul routes, and not just to/from major hubs; and 2) No change fees.

Though the OP at 800k lifetime UA miles should consider the value of finishing out the trek to 1MM for lifetime Gold status.