In my opinion Zeolite is the way to go.
Well, I am such a sand advocate I just have to respond.

It seems to me that if the zeolite is capturing ALL those tiny particles that sand is missing, time between backwash and pressure build up would be greater since it's trapping so much more gunk.

I don't think I have any ammonia in my pool (or do I?) So that benefit wouldn't help me over sand. Nor do I have any chloramines to any appreciable extent. If the zeolite removes chloramines, does that eliminate the need to shock?

The use of a 2 micron filter and metal out may have answered the original question as to whether zeolite removes metal from the water.

Lastly, I have yet to backwash since start-up....I've gained about 2psi in filter pressure since. based on last year, I expect to backwash two or three times this Summer. My water, thanks to this forum, is pristine.

After all the above, I am not saying that everyone should run out and buy a sand filter. Conversely, I wouldn't be in a huge rush to use zeolite, either. If it is the "magic bullet", the marketplace will soon sort that out and sand as a medium will simply no longer exist....don't count on it.