I don't think these three methods are currently anything like each other.
Using one stick (with or without aiders) is no different in concept than using multiple sticks, with one exception. When you're "hanging the next stick", your feet aren't on the "previous stick". That single thing seems to freak people out. Once you've gotten comfortable with that, or if you're comfortable with it from the beginning, carrying multiple sticks starts to feel sort of pointless. It has some nuance that may increase efficiency from one user to the next. But for the most part, you're just climbing the tree like you would with multiple sticks, but adding about 2 minutes total of hanging in your saddle with nothing besides the side of the tree under your feet.
Currently, using a platform folded up with aiders, or just aiders, has its warts. It may just be a matter of refining the technique, or some breakthrough that hasn't occurred yet. I can see the platform idea being similar to using one stick it if gets refined some. I don't see aiders only catching up to one stick climbing in speed/efficiency, especially when it comes to wonky trees. I could definitely be wrong. This is a large difference from one stick climbing in my opinion. Maybe that gap is closing. I like what
@Peterk1234 is trying over there.
The hand climber method is wildly different in that you're attached to the climbing method at the furthest point of your body from your hands (the tips of your feet). If you're climbing a tree with no branches, and one that doesn't require you to adjust the belt, it's wonderful. I'd be willing to bet that those types of trees comprise less than half of what we WANT to climb as a group. If you're crossing branches, I can't imagine getting as efficient as doing it with one stick or multiple sticks, but i could again be wrong. There's also a considerable amount of complication with the piece of equipment in having it modified to work outside it's intended purpose. Again, could be a matter of refinement.
The way you climb up the tree gets conflated with what your butt is sitting in when you're up there. Everyone seems to come to this site with the idea that saddle hunting and some climbing method are one in the same. What's interesting is that all three of the climbing methods mentioned here would be safer, more comfortable, and easier not using a saddle at all - a rock climbing harness is much better suited to the task.
If forced to choose one of the three of those methods, it wouldn't be close for me - it would be one stick climbing. For me a 14-20" stick, and two step aider of any flavor makes the most sense. If I'm climbing more than 20', I'll rappel down.
