Is it better to redeem a free night at a Starwood hotel through a AIRLINE?

[Deal Guy]

I was wondering if anyone is familliar with this.
We are all aware that 20k starwood points is worth 25k points on Delta or most airlines, so basically 10k spg points is equal to 12,500 Delta points. I looked into one example: The Sheraton Los Angeles Downtown is a cat 4, meaning that it costs 10k spg points per night. I put a random search on Delta for the same property, and for example on Feb 17, they were only asking for 11,885 Delta miles.
 So am I missing something here, or is it cheaper to convert to Delta, (or possibly another airline) to book a award stay?

[SuperFlyer]

I'm not the big SPG genius, but if using already delta, it would be cheaper to buy delta, then convert the spg (+%). Delta is from the cheapest miles around.

[Dan]

But you could also just use 4K SPG+$60 for a cat. 4.

[Deal Guy]

But you could also just use 4K SPG+$60 for a cat. 4.

I knew you would say that
I also know that when redeeming for 5 nights it's not either worth it, since you get the 5th night free.
My question only applies when you are redeeming strictly points (when c&p might not be available) for a stay less then 5 nights, and the airline is giving you a cat 4 (for example) for less than 12,500 points. Are you better off doing it that way?
 ( I'm thinking now that if you are gold or plat, or even preferred plus (with the amex card), it might not be worth it, as you are giving up a possible upgrade or late checkout)

[Deal Guy]

Dan, is my last comment correct in it's entirety or not?

[mordys]

( I'm thinking now that if you are gold or plat, or even preferred plus (with the amex card), it might not be worth it, as you are giving up a possible upgrade or late checkout)

I believe that you are still eligible for all upgrades/amenities/points etc. as Delta is no different than a travel agent booking your hotel room.  I do not have any confirmation of that though.
That being said, this usage of Delta miles, 1 mile= 1 cent is probably the most valuable usage for most as Delta's awards are so darn hard to book.

[Dan]

At least for SPG and Hyatt you only get upgrades and points when booked directly from Hyatt or SPG.
Booking made throught Orbitz, Delta, etc. will not get upgrades/points.