If you want fast, low-variance places to stay with no research, pick a hotel. If you want something off the beaten path, try AirBnB, VRBO, etc.
AirBnB is where caveat emptor rules. AirBnB becomes more of a gamble was they allow gaming reviews. However, I've had plenty of problems with hotels (e.g., mechanical noise) and rarely experience anything delightful (although I did once get a very nice blueberry mule). Hotels are almost never better than expected.
Using AirBnBs, I've had some wonderful surprises (beautiful views, great human interactions) and a lot of variety. I've never had a problem, but I always make sure that the host is a superhost. My wife recently stayed at a place infested with roaches but it wasn't superhosted. . .