So I have a Bitcoin ATM just a few blocks away from my house. I am wondering if anybody would be able to tell me about their recent experience using one. I am a bit hesitant in using it because of all the delays in confirmation times these days. Would be helpful if some users can tell me the pros and cons of their experiences using the ATM?
Wow. A Bitcoin ATM few blocks away? That is unheard of. Bitcoin ATMs are quite rare. I would say that you are really lucky to have one so close.
In terms of confirmations times, it really depends on the machine. Some bitcoin machines like Lamassu support a 15-second operation, which consists of scanning QR code of your bitcoin address, feeding bank notes to the machine and clicking “Send”. It is as simple as that. Personally, I did have any issues with confirmation times when I used a Bitcoin ATM. However, the last time I used a Bitcoin ATM was in 2015.
The main disadvantages are the facts that there is very little ATMs in the world now. Thus, they are hard to access and one may have to travel a considerable distance to use them. However, in your case, you have one right next to you! The other disadvantage is the large commission rates. They are much higher than exchanges.
In general, I would suggest you experiment with the Bitcoin ATM at least one and experience it for yourself, before continual usage.