Originally Posted by
FBinNY
In terms of mechanical performance, ie. rolling resistance both are comparable at the same overall quality lever. I'm a fan of cup/cone systems, not because they're "better" but because they're serviceable. The ability to field strip, clean, grease, rebuild and adjust these allows them to last almost forever. Compare to cartridge bearings where there's no ability to adjust if play develops or field strip to clean and relube.
This is reasonable. I would note, however, that if you are not willing and able to do the regular maintenance required by cup and cone yourself then it's much more economical to just replace a cartridge BB when it wears out. Plus, if you are not an extremely skilled mechanic then being able to adjust the cup and cone is as likely to be a disadvantage as an advantage.