What should you choose ?  That really will depend on many factors… however as a rough rule-of-thumb shade sails and shade structures covering the same area will cost about the same.

You need to first determine your priorities – often this is a case of effectiveness versus aesthetics.  Good design can blend both.   There are certainly technical limitations with materials, site restrictions, regulations and prudent design parameters.  Cost is also a serious consideration.  A word often heard in the early stages is “compromise”.  For this reason we recommend a clear idea of what you want to achieve is an excellent starting point.  Professional shade designers will endeavour to work your priorities into a viable shade concept.

The next question might be to determine if shade only or waterproof is needed. 
Generally a PVC shade sail or shade structure will be noticeably more expensive than a similar shade cloth version.  People often think waterproof PVC is better but upon closer examination shade cloth (shade only) is more than sufficient for their needs.  The premium paid for waterproof and the fact that well-designed shade cloth can provide very good water resistance will often carry the debate.   See also the quality/longevity/price factors of PVC.  If PVC is the choice we recommend the best quality affordable should be selected.