The answer to 'which is better shut-off valve or' is that a shut-off valve is generally better than a faucet for controlling water flow to a specific fixture or appliance. Shut-off valves provide a more reliable and secure way to shut off water supply, which can be important in emergency situations or when servicing plumbing components.
Shut-off valves are installed directly on the water supply line leading to a fixture, allowing you to turn the water on and off as needed. This is particularly useful for things like sinks, toilets, washing machines, and water heaters. Faucets, on the other hand, only control the flow of water through the fixture itself, not the overall supply. Shut-off valves give you more control and flexibility over your plumbing system.