CX catering has taken a big hit, but it is still one of the world's best airlines.
The CX Cirrus J seat is better than the B/E Diamond you'll get on UA EWR-HKG. More room, direct aisle access.
The CX aircraft will be cleaner overall, and the crew will keep the lav pristine during the flight. UA crews won't clean the lav.
I've always enjoyed the CX style of service. Agree with spin on this one.
The CX lounges at HKIA are among the best in the world.
While you might actually eat better on UA, I would still take CX. I don't think it's really a close call unless you're talking about the 77W with Polaris seat SFO-HKG.