I love my Gomah porteur rack and I use it daily on my commuter bike. When you start putting around 25 pounds or more on the front, then things get a little wonky. I just ride slower to be safe.

The porteur rack is more versatile to me. I can quickly add a basket or cargo net or a couple of bungee cords and carry most things. When I had the low riders and panniers on the front of my touring bike, I was limited on what I could carry. Plus I hated the way it handled.

You could have the best of both worlds if you bought a rack like Pass and Stow. You get the porteur rack plus a place to hang bags if need be. Check it ou online it is quite nice.