I have stayed in preferred rooms twice and non-preferred twice. Our preferred rooms in Congress Park were a quick walk to Disney Springs and had a great view of the Springs, but a long walk to the main pool and main building.
We last stayed in The Paddock, which I actually preferred as it seemed closer to the main pool and the Paddock pool is also nice. The bus situation was better as well as it was one of the first stops and it increases your chances of getting a seat.
Saratoga Springs is such a sprawling resort everywhere you stay will have some pros and cons. Still, it's lovely, just be prepared to walk -- or ride the bus.