SAPE is definitely more powerful with proper filtering, but it has higher chance of getting hit.
PBN is generally weaker but usually longer lasting.
I haven't tested much with SAPE --> buffer sites, but i heard it is also quite risky from some experienced users, not as safe as it sounds.
For PBN --> buffer sites, this definitely work, but i doubt you can hit top #3 for a high comp kw with this strategy alone.
It really depends on what you are trying to achieve, ranking long term for high comp keywords will require a lot more than buying SAPE and PBN.