I haven't used TDE or really any encryption in SQL Server. I prefer to have column level encryption done at the application level. I like the fact that the database is just storing the encrypted information and not responsible for encrypting/decrypting it. I really consider that something to e done in the business layer.

I would consider using TDE because it does protect your data at rest, so a stolen backup would not compromise your data, unless they get the keys as well.