There are two camps on this issue. The first or more traditional believes in bottom draining. Yes, pulling the pan may be a little more work, but you get to peek around underneath...see what's going on below. You might notice something that's about to become a problem. I don't mind pulling the pan.

The second group prefers using a "top sider" - device used to suction oil out the top. If your car has a top-mounted filter, you don't have to get on the ground. You stay clean. Many say they get more oil out this way and faster.

To me, it's irrevalent which way you go. Both drain oil. The main thing is to do it on a regular basis.

I suspect we'll see many posts on this issue.