As others have stated, there is a difference in an academy or ROTC. Any of the academies are total immersion in military life for four years, with only having time off when the military tells you that you can have it. ROTC, I believe any of the branches allow you to set your own schedule outside of the ROTC requirements (not 24/7). One gives you the "college" experience, the other the "academy" experience, it is up to the Candidate, NOT the parents to make that decision. YOU as the candidate have to be happy and secure in your choice, for some the academy is the way to go, for others ROTC is the better way to achieve their goals. One of the differences that hasn't really been considered is that the ROTC route allows for the choice of any major (fitting within the Type of scholarship if you go the scholarship route), and maybe one not offered at the academies but still Commission the same as an academy grad. Another thing to think about, that I have seen often posted on these forums is grad school, going to an academy generally requires a minimum of three years AD before any offer of grad school (and grad school usually comes with additional service obligations), with ROTC, if you have the option to Commission Reserve, you can do directly to grad school (on your dime) while attending drill and AD Training, then maybe go AD after finishing your graduate studies. A faster route to an end so to speak, and one without additional service time added on because the military is not paying the tab.
I don't think there is a "RIGHT" answer to OP's question, both USNA and NROTC get you there, you need to consider the route you wish to take and the commitment you want to make. Talk to admissions people at USNA (and any grads you can find), and talk to the Command at a couple of your college choices for NROTC, and some current and former members, and get an idea of the road you want. As others have said, choose wisely, four years being miserable is not a good start to a chosen career.