In our area the dual credit programs are less rigorous than the IB high school or magnet school with many required AP classes. The dual credit students tend to apply to in state colleges that accept their credits while the AP and IB students apply to and attend a wider variety colleges and universities including private schools and elite in and out of state colleges. I would expect that any program that is less rigorous would be less stressful if that is what you are looking for. Attending a diverse high school is also an enriching experience. However, the AP credits are more of a universal standard that indicates readiness for success at elite colleges. The dual credits need to be evaluated on a case by case basis.