Six of one, half a dozen of another.

Both work. I use HOT.

Specifically, I find "weak hand" manipulation of the slide stop more positive and "fluid" (economy of motion).

Not directed at the OP but anymore I find arguing over the minutiae of these techniques mind numbing. IMO what is even worse is trying to prove that one technique or another is superior by performing drills on a square range with a shot timer.

My first formal HG class was in 1996. Subsequent to that class I "stumbled upon" the slide stop technique on my own (no youtube or sportsman's channel in those days). Following year (1997) at a K. Hackathorn class I couldn't wait to show everyone what I had "discovered". Much to my dismay everyone pooh-pooed it. Now it's the "latest and greatest".

Go figure.

Define "faster" in the context of the unpredictable nature of a fluid, dynamic gunfight. IMO, "faster" as measured in tenths of seconds is negligible.

If we both shoot to slide lock and someone is 50% "faster" than me with their reload (regardless of what technique they're using) it will probably make a difference whereas if someone is only 5% or 10% faster than me then it won't as we'll both likely get our follow up shots off.

I firmly believe that one will reach a point of diminishing returns for all the time, effort and cost of ammo striving for sub one second reloads and presentations, etc. as there are a number of other issues that are far more important considering the skill level of even moderately trained shooters vs. the common street thug and the typical distances involved.

OTOH, if an ammo company was willing to sponsor me with 1K of free ammo a week and my family didn't mind my 3 to 4 times a week at the gun range then it might be worth the effort.

I'm not saying "faster" is bad. Simply suggesting it is all too often "over-valued". An IPSC grand master? Absolutely. The typical gun owner concerned with self defense? Questionable.

To the OP, adopt a slide release technique that you find most reliable and ergonomically "fumble free" with respect to your specific handgun and practice it until you achieve "unconscious competence".