I think it's interesting that you say learn how to sponsor. We should all learn how to sponsor, it is a great thing to teach your group. Not all your downline will have the benefit of buying their affiliates, so yes I would tell you to please learn how to sponsor by recruiting,
The answer to which is better for you business is a quick answer, both are equally important and I highly recommend you do both, I mean why waste a resource at your disposal, RIGHT?