I'm just a newbie compared to you guys but from my observations I'd say candle formations and
VSA compliment eachother very nicely. They sort of go hand-in-hand, no use comparing one against the other. Use both and things become much clearer. I'm sure there are plenty of trades that can be taken just by using candles alone, but
VSA can give you a greater understanding of the potential of certain moves. Just my humble opinion...