I have an Apollo crimp set ($100.00) and a Sharkbite clamp tool ($65.00). Each is a fine tool, but the clamp tool is my favorite. Admittedly, I haven't used the clamp tool anywhere near as much as the crimper so I might someday change my feelings.
I bought the crimp set many years ago and it works real well, but it can be a bear to use when working out of position, such as overhead or in confined spaces. In order to start a crimp, the tool must be opened quite wide and I've had several instances where the tool would not fit within the space in which I was trying to make a connection. One recollection was within a kitchen cabinet and another was at the top of a 12" joist bay, along with several other similar situations. There is also an issue that you must have clearance at the back and sides of the connection to accommodate the head of the crimper. That is a routine obstacle to work around and plan for.
When replumbing a bathroom more recently, I envisioned the issues I was going to have making connections within a double wall and at the back of the shower. Rather than fight with the issue, I bought a clamp tool. I should have done it years ago! It's smaller, does not need the width clearance and needs no space behind the connection. It is also easier for me to use as it requires only hand strength and not shoulders and chest muscles, which apparently aren't what they used to be.
The cost of a clamp over a crimp ring is negligible ... less than a dime. The time saved from not having to work around issues, as described, is well worth the extra cost of the clamps. I don't know which tool makes a better mechanical connection. As long as they don't leak, I don't care.
As far as removing clamps or crimps that are not perfect, I use a cutoff tool. Most often the pex is left somewhat unscathed and I've never ruined a fitting. A clamp ring can also be removed with pliers and a screwdriver, and there is a tool made to cut crimp rings from a fitting, but the Pex tubing has to be cut at the end of the fitting before removing the crimp ring. I have been known to make a bad crimp or clamp connection and when I do, I most often cut the faulty connection out and use a fresh fitting, saving the clamp or crimp removal for a less busy time.
