When I first started fishing and only had a few rods I used them all the time. Now that I have more, I tie everything direct. If you do use them you still have to check your line and retie accordingly, but it makes it quicker if you're running through a bunch of different baits. A word of warning though, if you do use them stay away from the really cheap ones. The collars have a tendency to slide and they can open up on you. I'd suggest the wire style ones that sort of interlock. I'd say give them a try and see what you think. I don't think they're as bad as the rep they are getting on here.

Thank you!  I appreciate the advice and will look into those types of swivels.  As of right now I use Eagle Claw ones I'm pretty sure.

Barrel swivels are no more than line connectors, I've seen some of the cheap ones pull apart but that is pretty rare, the one I saw was by a tarpon.  Cranes are only slightly better, they don't revolve a lot either.  Power swivels aren't too bad, some have incredible strength for their size, I have small ones that are 90#, some not much bigger are 230#.  BB are at the top of the list, Sampo and Spro considered to be the best, I have bought other brands not as expensive and they worked about the same.  Smaller BB's usually will have split rings and some of the larger ones have welded rings.

I use swivels almost 100% of the time, only real exception is targeting spanish mackerel, they can strike the swivel as well.  I mainly use about 20" or so of leader, retieing a new leader is quite easy and fast with a swivel.  Getting a wind knot with braided line that has to be cut out, then attaching a new leader can be a pain if it's very windy. Also better have something with you to make a close clean cut, I don't carry much in the way of excess baggage.  I never found any difference in catch rate swivel to non swivel.