I use both XNTPD & NTPDATE. The one a user chooses depends on their requirements (server, client, etc.) NTPDATE is much easier to install, run from a cronfile, etc.

XNTPD is more comprehensive, but more to install and configure; by far more complete.

Selecting a utility depends on the application. If you want a simple way to sync with a NTP timeserver without too much thinking, use NTPDATE.

On the other hand, if you want to be more of an NTP-expert, dive into the details of the more comprehensive distros.