Google Business Profile and Custom Maps Embedding Over Maps API

Hi, fellow SEOs. I am in a fix with this one.

Remember, how in 2018 everyone used to add Google Maps API on their local business websites and used to get ranked. Then the time came in when Google started charging for the Maps API and now everyone uses that of course judiciously.

My questions are has anyone given a thought about using

Google Business Profile (Maps listing) > Share > Embed map option

OR

Google Custom Maps (Create your map) > Embed map option

Instead of the Maps API. Some SEOs vouch for these methods over the Maps API for better SEO results.

Especially the Maps listing embed method, the other 2 options are totally free and do not need a billing account.

Also, what do you prefer adding a location map on the Contact Us page only or in the website footer or each location page?

My question is has anyone given a thought about using a GBP share / Custom Google Map over Maps API and experienced similar or better benefits for free?

Some write ups on the internet suggest that the only right way to do it is through the Google Business Profile share > embed map method

https://yoyofumedia.com/embed-google...ness-maps-seo/

https://lawncrack.com/custom-google-map-embed/

Thanks for your perspectives in advance!
-Ryan