Which is better? DDE or DDP??

[jeast]

I know it depends on our eating habits but I'd like to hear thoughts from people who might have done both. We have APs. We also like a table service meals every night. We will eat at least one per day, occasionally two (character breakfasts, etc.). We don't share entrees too much as we like our food, but rarely can we eat an appetizer each and a dessert each.

We have two kids, DD6 and DD3 who both eat pretty well with some variety. They like the grilled chicken and steak kid meals, not just the mac and cheese.

On the DDP, we will still put out money for a couple of extra TS meals, and we may have a hard time using CS meals (although maybe not if we utilize them for the occasional b-fast).

On the DDE, I'm not sure we save enough to make up for the savings of DDP.

I tried to think this out myself and sit down w/menus, but finally decided to ask your opinions. Even if you can't help me, I know I tried you guys. I always get such good ideas and insights from you!

Thanks!!
Jennifer

 

[goofy4tink]

I have the AP also...own DVC so now can buy the DDP as well. I was like you....couldn't figure out which was better for me when I go in Oct. My dd will turn 13 on this trip (that's the reason for the trip, going with another mom and her birthday dd), but my dd eats mostly the kids type stuff. So....I already bought the DDE last year but let it expire in May since I will need it for Oct, Dec, and then in August. Just bought the new one. I sat down with the menus, and made up a list of where we would be eating, based on our ADRs. I priced out the cost if we were to pay for it out of pocket the whole way. Then, I applied the 20%, to the things I could apply it to since it doesn't apply to counter service, added the cost of my DDE card. Then, totaled everything up. Then, I figured what I would pay if I bought the DDP for the two of us...2 adults. I compared the two costs and it came to within about $50 of each other.
Since I got the DDE already, I can use it for the meals that aren't covered on my DDP ( I have a couple that aren't covered since) as well as the 'adult beverages' the other mom and I will be enjoying. The other meals will be covered by my DDP. I figure it will just be easier to do it that way, rather than worry about who paid for what, and trying to split things 50/50 between the two families.
So, sit with the menus...figure what you would be most likely to eat for each meal and then compare how it would come out with the DDE and then with the DDP.