While bail bonds offer more flexibility and are more affordable than cash bail, there are a few extra contingencies attached to bail bonds than cash bail.
With cash bail, the defendant has to stay out of trouble, show up for court, and if applicable, obey curfew, travel restrictions, restraining orders, or attend classes.
With bail bonds, all of the above still apply, but the defendant will also have to make sure payments are made on time and in-full. They will also may need to pledge collateral and get a loved one to co-sign the bail bond.
Though there are a few extra steps involved with using bail bonds, they are far more flexible and accommodating, which is why more people typically choose to post bail with bail bonds, even if they can afford cash bail.