They do swim at Williamsport and while still not serious 12 and 13 year olds playing in the LLWS is a little more serious than a random 12U tournament.
Growing up, my town was barred from the LLWS because we were a "Pony League Feeder" town. Our rules were more for pushing kids to Pony and travel.
It honestly was great compared to what I see with my kids now. Immediate competition was good for us. It taught us the game.
Hard to say Jered. I like them both in their own way. If my College (FSU) is in it or my adopted colleges UCLA and Long Beach State then might lean toward the CWS. If not then LLWS it is