The answer to 'gutter vs' is that gutters and downspouts are essential for protecting your home from water damage, while downspouts alone do not provide the same level of protection. Gutters collect rainwater from your roof and channel it away from your home's foundation, preventing water from seeping in and causing costly repairs. Downspouts, on the other hand, are responsible for directing the water collected by the gutters away from your home, but they do not have the same capacity to handle large volumes of water.
Gutters are typically made of aluminum, vinyl, or copper, and come in a variety of styles and colors to match your home's aesthetic. They require regular cleaning and maintenance to ensure they are functioning properly, while downspouts may need to be cleared of debris less frequently. The cost of installing and maintaining gutters can vary depending on the size of your home, the material used, and the complexity of the installation, but they are generally a worthwhile investment to protect your home from water damage.