Some highlights of best programs by benefit:

Customer Service in general: NW
Online functionality: NW
Promotions, easy miles, full earning all fares: NW
First class & one-way awards avail: FB
Platinum for Life: FB
US Domestic FC upgrades on NW: NW, FB, CO
AMEX benefits by geo (level miles and/or addtl cardholders with status): FB
Lower threshold for E+: FB
Clear intl upgrade process: CO
Not strictly op-up auto upgrades: OK


Bad aspects by program:

High $$ costs of award redemption: FB
Lower miles earning fare classes: FB, CO
Buggy, bad online services: FB
Poor customer service: FB
Miles upgrades only on high fare classes: DL, FB
Uncomfortable Y product: FB(KL), CO

... to be updated ...