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Airport lounges: Qantas First Lounge (Sydney) vs. United Polaris Lounge

Quick Verdict

Both lounges provide premium experiences, but the Qantas First Lounge emphasizes luxury and personalized service, while the United Polaris Lounge focuses on providing a comfortable and productive environment for international business travelers. The best choice depends on individual priorities and access eligibility.

Key features – Side-by-Side

AttributeQantas First Lounge (Sydney)United Polaris Lounge
Lounge access eligibilityFirst Class passengers on Qantas, Emirates, and Oneworld partner airlines. Qantas Platinum and Platinum One members, Emirates Skywards Platinum members, Oneworld Emerald members departing on a Oneworld flight. Complimentary lounge passes are sometimes available with specific credit cards or to Qantas Platinum One members. Access is granted when flying Emirates First Class and booked on a QF or EK flight number. Access may be possible by redeeming a large number of points to fly in First Class with eligible airlines.Passengers traveling in United Polaris business class on long-haul international flights; also accessible to passengers flying in business or first class on a Star Alliance partner airline for long-haul international flights, but only at the departure airport; access is granted with a same-day boarding pass for departing or arriving flights within 24 hours; no access via credit cards, lounge memberships, or elite status alone.
Seating comfort and availabilityVariety of seating options, including comfortable lounge chairs with runway views. Distinct zones created by wooden dividing panels, offering both open and private spaces. A library area provides a quiet space to relax. Can get crowded, making it difficult to find seating at peak times.Variety of seating options, including plush armchairs, quiet areas, and productivity pods; some locations have "signature seats" with wide leather chairs and partitions for privacy; seating includes options for solo travelers and groups; many seats have a spot to place a laptop and a nearby outlet.
Shower facilities and amenitiesShower suites are available without pre-booking. The suites are lined with white marble and kept very clean. Amenities include Aspar products, shower caps, combs, toothpaste/toothbrushes, shaving kits, and cotton towels.Shower suites are available with amenities like Saks Fifth Avenue towels and slippers; amenities often include a shaving kit, hair net, toothbrush and toothpaste, deodorant, shampoo, conditioner, and body wash; some showers have both standard and waterfall showerheads.
Wi-Fi speed and reliabilityWi-Fi is available throughout the lounge. Internet speeds are generally very fast, with downloads and uploads exceeding 100 Mbps.Wi-Fi is available throughout the lounge; many reviews report fast and reliable Wi-Fi.
Staff service quality and attentivenessStaff are generally considered friendly, attentive, and professional. Many reviewers highlight the excellent service provided by the lounge staff.Many reviews mention friendly, proactive, and professional staff; some reviewers have noted exceptional service.
Cleanliness and maintenanceThe lounge is generally clean, with staff continuously clearing sections. Bathrooms are spacious and clean. Some reviewers have noted that the lounge is showing signs of age.Generally reported as clean and well-maintained, including seating areas, restrooms, and dining spaces.
Noise levels and ambianceThe lounge offers a mix of environments, with quieter areas like the library and more lively areas like the dining space. The design incorporates natural light and views of the tarmac. The lounge has a relaxed and sophisticated atmosphere.Designed to offer a relaxing environment; some lounges have quiet rooms or relaxation areas with daybeds and white noise machines; noise levels can vary depending on the time of day, with some lounges becoming crowded in the evenings.
Business facilities (e.g., printers, meeting rooms)A small business area is available for working or printing. Meeting rooms are available and can be booked. Each meeting room contains a desk with seating, armchairs, a printer, and a television screen. Some reviewers note a lack of power points.Some lounges offer private phone booths or office suites; printers may be available.
Spa services availability and costSpa services are offered by LaGaia Unedited. Treatments are complimentary and typically last 20 minutes. It's recommended to book treatments in advance.Spa services may not be available at all locations.
Proximity to departure gatesLocated after security in Terminal 1. It is located near gates 8-10. The lounge is a 6-7 minute walk to gate 61.Locations vary by airport, but they are generally located within the terminal, near departure gates; The Newark lounge is in Terminal C, near the entrance to pier C3; The Chicago lounge is located within concourse C (near gate C18); The Houston lounge is located in terminal E, between the United Club and gate E12; The LAX lounge is located in Terminal 7, between gates 73 and 75A; The Dulles lounge is located in Concourse C by gate C17.
Operating hoursOpen from 5:00 am until the last Qantas international departure of the day.Vary by location, generally from morning to late evening; Chicago: 7 AM to 9 PM; Houston: 5:30 AM to 9 PM; Los Angeles: 6:30 AM to 10:30 PM; Newark: 5 AM to 10 PM; San Francisco: 6:30 AM to 11 PM or midnight; Washington Dulles: 6 AM to 10 PM.
PriceNot availableNot available
RatingsNot availableNot available

Overall Comparison

Qantas First Lounge (Sydney): Wi-Fi speeds exceeding 100 Mbps, complimentary 20-minute spa treatments. United Polaris Lounge: Offers both hot/cold buffet and a la carte dining, shower suites with Saks Fifth Avenue amenities.

Pros and Cons

Qantas First Lounge (Sydney)

Pros:
  • High-quality dining experience
  • Extensive drinks list
  • Fast Wi-Fi
  • Attentive and professional staff
  • Clean and well-maintained shower suites
  • Variety of seating options
  • Spa services available
Cons:
  • Can get crowded at peak times
  • Some reviewers note the lounge is showing signs of age
  • Power points not available at every seat
  • Lack of power points in business area

United Polaris Lounge

Pros:
  • Wide variety of seating options
  • Hot and cold buffet
  • À la carte dining
  • Extensive beverage selection
  • Shower facilities with amenities
  • Fast and reliable Wi-Fi
  • Attentive and professional staff
  • Clean and well-maintained
Cons:
  • Spa services not available at all locations
  • Noise levels can vary depending on the time of day
  • Access limited to specific classes of service or airlines

User Experiences and Feedback