I personally went for MSc by coursework due to time factor. Took me 1 1/2 years to complete it. Whereas for research I think it requires min of 2 years. I've seen some of my friends extended their master research up to 4 years. Dislike such uncertainties. I was in the teaching line as well btw.

And I do intend to pursue my PhD. In fact, I left my full time job and went for it last year-but it didn't worked out due to some issues with my supervisor.