It depends!!
I use Herma splits on photos, so much better than those millions of pieces of blue paper from the CM splits!!
I started off with the Herma Dots, and could make do with that, and use it a lot when I'm "not sure" which is most of the time!!
In the UK I think the Herma products are about the only ones that are better priced than US, as they're made in Germany (I think) CM are more expensive
I cannot live without my Sailor Glue Pen for all the little and fiddly bits. It seems easier than my Xyron 150.