I have stayed in AirBnBs once or twice as an individual and was happy with both the accommodations and the pricing relative to other options. That said, a lot of "the hotel experience just doesn't work" is mostly about groups or large families. As an individual or a couple I'll generally take the relative predictability of a hotel or a traditional B&B.
I've stayed with Airbnb once as a large group, but as a terminal cheapskate I always check to see if they have a good deal available. I almost stayed at one in Memphis, then checked the Google street view and realized it was a shack, and a recent review mentioned that there wasn't a functioning toilet on the property.
I've stayed with a couple small competitors to Airbnb, though. Mint House was a good one, with solid rates and a nice living space.
I'll be trying Vrbo for my bachelor party next month.
