Recruiters/Headhunters vs applying directly

I've always gone via a recruiter as I knew the space less. I've recently started looking and started applying directly. It could be due to lockdown but I've not heard back from several places I've applied to. My CV usually gets at least an initial interview to discuss the position and my interests etc.

I personally don't like using recruiters because they fling all kinds of positions at you. I'd much rather look at the positions available at the places I like and apply then and there. I'm also not too keen of having a another person's sit between me and my employer especially with the quality of recruiters having gone down considerably over the last few years IMHO.

I've also thought they get about 25% from your first year base. That's a nice sum of money. Often with me, it's not much work and even though there are hiring/HH budgets, one way or another this comes out of your pocket.

What is your experience?