I'd say Curlformers have a bit of a learning curve but once you get the hang of them, I feel like you get smoother results with less effort. Then again, my hair is type 4 with tight little coils. So when I rollerset with flexirods, magnetic rollers, or anything else, I feel like I need to do more work (combing/detangling/product) to get a smooth result. With Curlformers, I literally detangle and pop them on. And I don't have to detangle thoroughly for a smooth finish either.
The learning curve is serious enough for some ladies to give up on them though... So consider your patience.
HTH!