At least on the SEA/PDX-OAK/SJC routes, I have found that AS matches WN for advanced-purchase fares. Neither currently have stay requirements on their fares on this route, so you can book one-way without being penalized. WN is really strict with their inventories and they often lock you out of the cheap fares months in advance for busy travel days. AS doesn't seem to be quite as strict in this regard. However, WN has lower unrestricted fares, so for travel booked less than 3-days in advance, WN is the way to go.

I find WN to be decent for short flights. I have only seen the "joking around" on a couple of occasions. I haven't found WN to be all that punctual, but perhaps that's just my personal experience. I definitely like WN much better now that they offer kiosk and web check-in. The only advantages I see to AS are 1) better schedule frequency (at least to SJC), and 2) the possibility of a First Class upgrade.