Back to the question of 2 million base points, or 1000 nights, which is easier-
2 million base points is a base spend of $200,000. So if you spend $200 per night (exclusive of taxes and service charges), then they are equally "easy".
If you spend less per night, then the nights are easier; if you spend more, then the base points is easier.
This is a generalization. Sometimes there are promotions, as at present, that allow you to earn base points without staying.
On the other hand, you can earn nights on free stays; and there may be promotions for "double nights".
But your credit card may not exist in several years, or it may be changed to not provide Diamond status. So don't assume that you can be "diamond for life" by spending $450 per year for an Aspire card.