No wrong answer here, and PPs have done a good job on how to use PHs or go without them. I would only add that if you're doing the
DDP, you might want them because of where you're planning to eat.
Good point.
Generally speaking, the best TS dining is in the WS and the resorts, and some at Disney Springs.
BUT...just as direct hopping ALWAYS costs TIME, getting to ADR's also COSTS quite a bit of time. No matter where you start/plan to eat- getting to an ADR location means setting aside other activities.
Disney buses sometimes run 30min apart! Sadly, WDW transportation also has VERY frequent additional hiccups and delays.
Last summer, Monorail was down, but we weren't told. Took almost an hour to get from MK lot to MK! The threat of lightning stops all boats, but you may not suspect it (or be informed) on sunny days! Another day, the dock CM's didn't know boats had stopped! It took us over 90min of wait/travel just to go MK to WL and back!
The choices are completely up to you, but we find it VERY helpful to base ADR's on proximity. MK resort area = long trek to WS. Also, no matter where you come from, in pouring rain there's no way to get to any WS or BOG ADR without getting drenched!
If you are staying at a value resort, you will have to travel to ALL your ADR's, rain or shine. Afternoon summer showers are common. Chilly nights are common in winter.
So....we prefer ADR's at our home resort, near our hotel, or the park we visit each day. We only hopp-into-Epcot for dinner when we staying in the Epcot area or the values. (maybe mods)