They are also typically easier to install than NetBSD-current . A release is done by creating a branch of the source tree. During this time, many developers concentrate on the release branch. This is why after a release, the changes on the release branch are merged back into the main branch. The biggest problem with running the latest formal release of NetBSD is that you don't have access to the latest features and bug fixes in the development tree.
Formal releases are relatively easy to install.
All of the platforms supported by a formal release come with a detailed set of installation instructions, and most also include some sort of bootstrapping media. There is also typically an upgrade procedure to bring a system from the previous formal release to the current one. In short, if you're not the type of person who'd be willing to upgrade your operating system on a semi-daily basis, or if you want a system that is relatively easy to install and upgrade, a formal release of NetBSD is for you.