Learning the violin- shoulder rest or pad?

[PoppityPing]

DS2 (5) is learning the violin, and his teacher has said he needs a pad or rest.
Does anyone know the relative advantages/disadvantages of either? I am finding it difficult to find anything out about them on line other than it's whatever you prefer, and there seem to be soooo many different options for both too.
I have ordered a pad from the local music shop, as the guy in there told me the rests were expensive for the length of time they are used (DS is only on 1/4 size at the mo), but now I wonder if they are more expensive for a good reason iyswim?
I don't mind getting both, but I just don't have any idea which rest to get!
TIA.

IIRC DD started off with a pad as a learner then got a rest when she progressed to a larger violin

Dont bother with a rest until they move to a bigger violin, pads are fine for beginners.

def pad to start with, esp on a 1/4 size violin - once they get up to full-size rests are much more comfy and stable, but they don't half knacker the polish on your violin

Ah, brilliant- thanks everyone, you've reassured me

My dd (almost 8) and on a 1/4 violin still uses a simple cheap sponge attached with a rubber band. Works fine .