RecordTypeId using Describe & SOQL

RecordTypeId of an object can be determined by using 2 different options:

For example we will find out the recordtypeId of "Renewal" recordtype of opportunity.

By Using Describe:

Id renewalRecordTypeId = Schema.SObjectType.Opportunity.getRecordTypeInfosByName().get('Renewal').getRecordTypeId();

Advantage: Saves on SOQL limits but uses a describe call.

By using SOQL:

Id renewalRecordTypeId =[select id from recordType where  sobjectType='Opportunity' AND DeveloperName='Renewal'].Id;

Advantage of SOQL: If in future, someone change the name of recordtype, the code will work as it refers developername.