I think I've figured this out on my own. If you have no other modifiers (e.g. subdivision surfaces) then auto smooth seems like it might be more efficient. However, if you are using modifiers, you should use an edge split modifier to achieve the same effect. However, the auto smooth feature looks like it does not export properly (at least to most formats I've tried). Whereas the effect of the edge split modifier does.
Kent Trammell
replied
Thanks for sharing your findings! Honestly it's more my preference to not use the modifier, nothing against the modifier though...it's funny having light shone on my preferences :D
