I always go with licensed versions of decals where possible, but sometimes that's not always the case if the decals aren't available or being produced.

Personally, I choose screened versions where possible, Next Gen if not.

In the end, it's always a personal decision, since YOU will be applying them (or hiring someone to do it for you)

Greg

Recommendation, do a LOT of Pinside searches first. There is one vendor that is horrible at product and service who's name escapes me.

https://pinside.com/pinball/forum/topic/stencils
https://pinside.com/pinball/forum/topic/pinball-pimp-premium-cabinet-stencils-available-now

Pinball Pimp appears to be the front runner in the good vendor race..

I think the OP is talking about decals, not stencils. As far as stencils go though, nobody can beat the PIMP.

I second the advice to chose screen printed decals if available. I've used PPS decals on an Indiana Jones (screened) and on a Fish Tales (next Gen) and can speak to my experiences. Both games turned out well and look great, but there are differences.

The screen IJ decals look fantastic with rich colors, good resolution and a smooth glossy finish. The next gen decals have more of a matte finish that fails to give the colors the richness of the screened decals. On close inspection you will also find that the next ten decals don't have the same sharpness and resolution as the screen prints. The causes sharp edges to have a fuzzy resolution on fine details like lettering, but is not really noticeable on larger sections of art. The print on the next gen decals is pretty heavy, enough that you can feel raised edges of the ink much link layers on a screen printed surface.

Overall I prefer screen printed but would not hesitate to use the next gen if that was my only option.