You hit the nail on the head my friend...You get less money/fiat per btc because they are all competing together for price so market efficiency is lower - usually withtin the scope of 20 percent lower. However for this loss in premium, you can be guaranteed to receive a deposit in two weeks or less in most cases.

However the volume on Gox is higher I believe because of the history large players probably continue to use their services because AML verification limits already occurred and those cost money. Plus, if the money is simply there to be traded and appreciated upon then it makes sense to keep the credits available such that you buy in low and sell out high.

It depends where you live, what currency you want to trade in and where your bank account is domiciled. I live in the U.K., and have bank accounts in various currencies and countries around the world. For me, localbitcoins in GBP has been the best solution.

Your situation may be different because withdraw/deposit times will depend on your financial institutions, the desired currency, and the transfer method you choose.