I want to buy a roundtrip economy international ticket (booked directly on UA / UA operated / JFK-PPT). I can pay in either miles or $ (the value equivalents are the same). What has more flexibility? Award or paid fare? I have no status with United. Rules keep changing and fine print is frustrating. The flight is in August, but borders might or might not be open. I just want to make sure I choose the option that allows me most flexibility (rescheduling, etc.). Thanks.
All else being equal, the award ticket would be more flexible. Either way, you'd be allowed to make a change without paying a change fee (but would be responsible for any increase in fare / miles required). However, with an award ticket, you can get a free redeposit 31+ days prior to travel. With a non-refundable cash ticket, you'd be limited to accepting flight credit unless the change was due to an action by UA -- you wouldn't be able to get a refund.