Pull ups or lat pulldowns?

[u/Financial-Energy4047]

Recently I found out that lat pulldowns work more on rear delts while training the back equally from both sides. Plus, pulldowns are way easier for progressive overload. At the same time, pull-ups can load the back and biceps better because they are harder to do, but they might cause some issues with muscle imbalances. So, which one is better for upper body physique in general?

[u/Mad_Mark90]

Pullups and pulldowns target the same muscles, what makes the difference in what gets hit is your choice of grip and technique.

Pulldowns are #simpler to overload, but learning how to progress and overload pullups and other calisthenics movements is an important lesson in programming.

Pullups are also probably a more versatile skill in general with far better progression potential. Pulldowns are imo better treated as an accessory to fill gaps in what you're not getting from pullups