Originally Posted by
manttium
So then option 1 is clearly better - we would both clear together, instead of myself as a 1k and my companion as a non-premiere member (both with RPUs).
It's more subtle than that, but if you would rather both fly in the same cabin, then option 1 is preferable. Option 2 would maximize your chance of upgrading, while reducing the odds that your companion clears.
Note that under option 2, you could secure an E+ seat at booking for your companion by calling UA (since you would both be in the same cabin given that there is currently no open R).