I can't really say if SSR pools are better or worse than AKL. Stayed at both, but we didn't have time at SSR except to look at the pools.
SSR has the main pool and severel quiet pools. AKL just has one pool. SSR has the splash area, where the water jumps out of the ground by the main pool.
AKL has a water slide, and a zero entry pool if they helps. Not sure about SSR.
If your staying dvc at SSR and not at AKL, you also might want to factor in the convenience of the microwave in the room, i believe the fridges in the stdios at SSR are bigger than the ones in the regular rooms at AKL. Plus, you get toaster at SSR.
THe microwave might be great for warming up foods for the kids at late night,early morning snacks.