I think the answer depends on each individual. For me, writing is part of the memorising process. It forces my mind to focus on what I'm doing and helps my visual memory. It may feel slow, but it also feels like solid learning, something I won't forget by tomorrow. Besides, it's not a race.
It can also be fun – you can use different colours for the particles, or verb conjugations, or whatever your weak spot is, or write new kanji on post-its and stick them on household objects, changing them as they become familiar.
That said, some people say they remember things better after listening. Basically, any extra way of engaging with the things you're trying to remeber is a good opportunity to learn. Rather than hunting for that elusive "most effective method", it may just be a matter of using every opportunity, and writing things down is one of them.
I haven't been writing for years at this point and I've been having a blast. I can read, type, understand native content, it's not a problem at all.
If you don't like writing, you do NOT need it. You'll get burned out and maybe even drop the language all together. You can always go back and learn how to write later.
Anyway, to me there's no "better", just do what feels best for you. Even the most effective method is going to be useless if you hate it.
Disclaimer: I've personally never really liked writing and have a chronic hand injury.
