Comparing Hop On Hop Off Rome vs Public Transport

[jainnorton]

I'm debating whether to use Hop On Hop Off Rome buses or just rely on Rome's metro and buses. On one hand, the bus tours look super tourist-friendly with clear routes and commentary. On the other, public transport is cheaper and probably faster. Has anyone compared both options during their trip? I'm especially curious about travel time, comfort, and ease of navigation. Do Rome bus tours justify the extra cost for convenience and sightseeing, or is it better to explore the city like a local?