How is 1099 “better” than w2?

I keep getting the advice from older docs to go 1099 rather than stay w2. Most mention it'll be more money. But how?

My understanding is that I'll pay more taxes and have to pay my own insurance (which is probably brother going to be crappy, expensive, or both). So even if I'm paid slightly more, my expenses will be more.

Am I missing something?