PEX Sticks vs Coiled PEX Tubing & Straight Copper Pipe
PEX straight lengths vs coiled tubing:
The main advantages of straight length of PEX pipe over common coiled variety is the absence of coiled memory and a shorter pipe length (no need to purchase a 50, 100 or 300ft coil). Coiled memory makes PEX tubing harder to install in confined spaces and increases with diameter (noticeable, but manageable for 1/2" and very noticeable but not easily manageable for 1"). Coiled PEX tubing is excellent for long runs (no need for couplings/connectors between shorter pipe sections), but can be a challenge when installing PEX inside studs (for shower, faucet, toilet, laundry supply & others).
The major disadvantages of PEX sticks are higher price than coiled PEX tubing and lack of shipping options due to length.
PEX straight lengths vs copper pipe:
The obvious major advantage of PEX sticks over copper pipe is the price, which is x6-7 times lower. It is also less rigid than copper and easier to make small bends/turns with.
The disadvantage of all PEX pipe in general (both straight lengths and coils) is a smaller inside diameter than copper, resulting in a higher pressure drop. With the addition of PEX fittings, which are installed inside the pipe (as opposed to outside installation of fittings with copper pipe), this increases the pressure drop even further. However, being more flexible, PEX requires much less fittings than copper and this partially resolves the pressure drop issue - enough to be practically unnoticeable in most residential applications.
