If we talk about performance, adguard can't beat a host file. And host can't bug, local vpn can.
Everything put in host file is a slowdowner, since the OS need to read the file everytime. Adaway couldn't suppress ads in some apps i used, Adguard did (in apps, in browser), that is all that matter.
Adguard uses special filters to remove ads and their banners in the apps. Adaway, as far as i know, just add a line in the host file. Adaway can't even compared.
and Adaway is not the best i found for rooted phones , Adfree was better, in my opinion, but seems discontinued.
Adguard is not better, just more user friendly(and even that i don't know), adaway block almost all ads on the phone.(except youtube, you need to use a xposed module).
Do you have Adguard for Android installed ? because i guess you don't , so talking about something you didn't tried is quite useless, no?
Adguard don't even need the phone to be rooted; user friendly, yes , you don't have to take the risk to brick your phone...
Now all i said is based solely on my opinion and tests (im a beta-tester for Adguard); for me it outshines all other adblockers for Android.