[Doc]

I wouldn't disagree with most of the points you make. However the later stages of STT (And MTT) require a lot of skill to play well. Many players are pretty poor about managing their equity here - folding hands they should call with, not moving all-in etc. As the blinds increase hands basically change values and a player who can recognise this has a big advantage over the majority - especially at low buy-ins.

I would also argue that the variance is lower - The most you can lose in 40 mins or so is your tourney buy-in, and if you're playing 6Max tables, you'll rarely (if you're half competent) lose enough tables in a row to really hammer your bankroll. I would suggest that your earn rate as a percentage of your bankroll is higher for the same risk - at least till you get to the big buy-in tourneys.

However, cash game play will definitely improve your tourney play, earn you more rake and there are a ton more games available to choose from typically.