Given that the vast majority of artists use machines, I can’t think of a reason to limit yourself to the small number of artists that use the hand-poke method, unless you know an artist that uses that method and you like their work.
I haven’t either, I have also heard that. I know they do take a lot longer. Unless someone really wanted to get the experience I’m guessing most people would prefer a machine tattoo for comfort and the speed.
It’s your decision but unless you specifically wanted a hand poke tattoo I would have thought going with the machine method would be easier and give you a lot more choice with artists.