I can't answer why some men prefer a catheter. But having had aquablation, I can honestly say that experience was hardly a walk in the park.
Four months after the procedure I'm not measurably better than I was before the procedure.
I am now wearing Depends, which is certainly not an improvement. I usually have to urinate sitting, rather than performing that task the old fashioned way, standing.
Will see my urologist in a few weeks to go over some issues.