I would say it depends on how competitive your stats are relative to the school you are applying to. Most schools wont fill up their class EARLY with mediocre students when they know they will yield a competitive pool. Some schools allow applicants to apply to early decision and the normal cycle. I can see how that would be a plus. However, early decision is best when you know the school and have the stats to back it up! This will save you a ton of money and stress!