Iconic weapon vs mods weapon which is better?

[KDA Seraphine]

besides those unique abilities on Iconic weapons, do they have higher stats than normal version at same rarity?
Are normal weapons with mods worth using?

[Tokenn]

That's basically something you need to explore and discover for yourself. IMO once you get a top-Tier standard weapon modded the way you want, the Iconic version doesn't give you a lot more. But in every case, it depends more on how effectively you use a weapon than any special properties. The nice thing about Iconics is that you can upgrade them to higher tiers faster than you can find them or buy them.

[Nar!]

Yeah, pretty much what Tokenn said. Despite having most iconics in my stash, I sometimes use tier 5s with 4 modded slots that stacks damage, crit chances and head shot multipliers quite effectively.
Essentially doing more damage than some iconics I have in my arsenal, of similar gun type. But this also depends on how you engage in combat. If you run and gun (doom style) or take cover, etc.

I love smart guns and tech weapons with stacked stats, personally (I also upped my tech weapons perks in my build). Some guns aren't as potent but a lot of fun to use.

Just use what you enjoy best and note the damage output for each one after you added more to their stats with mods. Raising crit chance is always good.

I test many weapons on Maxtac soldiers to see which are most effective against them. Especially on the heavies. Damage stacking and "fun" is what I seek the most in my weapons rather than damage per projectile.

They can have shock or burn effects, or even explosive rounds that trigger burn, etc, for several seconds, even while you're reloading your weapon. Good stuff!