My commute has very few places I need to come to a complete stop. Over 15.5km there are 4 places I usually need to stop. There are also about 5 stop signs that are either at right turns or I can crawl up to, then proceed without stopping. If I had to deal with an excessive number of stop signs and lights, I'd look for alternative routes even if the distance was longer.

In the end its best to do what you feel is most comfortable / enjoyable / safe.