It depends on what experience you want to offer. If you follow the diverse discussions on this forum, you will find that people do not have a unified solution. I prefer having each listed separately and following this with my models. It has more benefits for the end-user and is only more work for the author.
When I am searching for models, for me it’s important to see at a glance, print time and and filament consumption. If a model comes with variants, I want to see also that to maybe foster my decision to print or not.
User Benefits:
- Realistic print time
- Realistic filament requirements
- Great overview of available variants
- Easy to browse
- No clutter since all variants are grouped and not dedicated models
Author Benefits
- Detailed statistics for each version, I see what variants are popular and which not
- Easy to maintain
- Easy to add new Variants
Examples:
Swatch Display Board Case, Variation on Slots
Drawers, Variation on Size
Still on this one, I need to explain what to print, and list print times because there are 2 use cases for the same size, that need explanation - not happy with that.
Boxes, Variation on Size, Shape
I would go for dedicated profiles anytime.
EDIT: I forgot a downside on print profiles
The user only can see the 3D Preview of the original model.