This is really based on your individual situation.
A few points to consider:
- A full node is currently more expensive than a DTM. As of writing the Softnode outputs around 4,300 DAG while the DTM outputs around 160 - 180 DAG a day on average, which is 4,800 - 5,400 in a 30 day month.
- Softnode staking is subject to change to operational Nodes so the rewards are subject to change depending on uptime and other factors.
- DTM owners are growing in numbers and that means more owners receiving a share of the rewards pool. More owners means the pool is shared out to a greater number of people.
- Exact numbers of what a Node/ Shard will generate once fully assigned to a state channel and what a DTM placed in a retail store will generate from data sales is still unknown.
- Final Note: The DTM is currently a lot cheaper, but the markets are very volatile at the moment and no one knows which of the future earnings of each either a Node/Shard or a DTM will be higher. It more depends on which one can you afford and which one is right for you as a DTM will take some leg work to be placed in its optimal earning location of a retail/ commercial location.
- Join the Constellation Community Official Channel on Discord where you will find many different sources of information to make a personal judgement.
Helpful Links:
Hypergraph Hour Episode 45 - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T6ApoUgkIZk
Dag Chats: #07 Don’t be a snowflake, profit with Snowflake - https://dagchads.com/1148/