Depends on what kind of drivetrain you're running. 9+ speeds, I always prefer to use a master link over breakaway pins. For the rest, if it's included, I'll use it. but I find it to be more hassle with a single speed chain. I think they're great for the most part. I would always recommend a master link when people ask me at the shop, and I've heard people curse about them too, but then realized they just don't know how to use them properly.