What are the pros and cons of using Coinstar?

Have you ever used Coinstar to convert your loose change into cash or gift cards? It's a convenient service, but it's important to weigh the pros and cons before you decide to use it. On the plus side, Coinstar is a fast and easy way to get rid of all that heavy change you've been carrying around. It's also widely available, with machines located in many grocery stores, retail stores, and financial institutions. Plus, you can choose to receive your funds as cash or as a gift card to a popular retailer, giving you some flexibility in how you use your money. However, there are some drawbacks to consider as well. Coinstar charges a fee for its service, which can eat into your earnings, especially if you're only converting a small amount of change. Additionally, some users have reported issues with the machines, such as them not accepting all types of coins or malfunctioning during the counting process. Finally, while you can receive your funds as cash, you may not be able to get the exact amount you're expecting due to rounding or other factors. So, what are your thoughts on Coinstar? Do you think the convenience and flexibility it offers are worth the fees and potential issues? Or would you rather save up your change and take it to a bank or credit union for free coin counting?