I figure by the time exchange fees are added in it probably works out near the same. Plus its simpler using the internal market and I don't have an account with any exchanges anyway. I'm hoping by the time I'm ready to actually use my Steem, I can buy stuff with it just the way it is! 1 wallet and that's it! Simple; just the way most people would like it.

Have you figured out that I had 2 distinct and separate issues regarding my original question? The 2nd one has nothing to do with earning more or less money, nor if you take it as Steem or split it. It has only to do with SP and how easy it is or is not, to earn it.