Is a hair transplant too extreme of a solution without exploring other treatments first?

My hairline has receded quite significantly and that was one issue, but in the last couple of months I've noticed the hair in my crown start to thin and hair loss is now noticeable on top when it previously wasn't. Now I'm looking into possibly getting a hair transplant but it seems like it might be too extreme of a step without experimenting with minoxidil/finasteride first.

From what I've read it can take at least 6 months for these things to work and there is also a risk of side effects. I've also read conflicting information with some saying that once you get a hair transplant you have to start taking minoxidil/finasteride anyway and others not, and if this is the case, it kind of makes it a moot point.

Anyone experimented with minoxidil, finasteride or other hair loss treatments and mind sharing? Thanks!