There are a few advantages to using a digital potentiometer vs. a mechanical potentiometer, namely
- Higher resolution
- More reliability
- Better stability
- Faster adjustment
- More functions
- Better dynamic control
However, a digital potentiometer is not a direct replacement for a mechanical potentiometer. See the Digital Potentiometers vs. Mechanical Potentiometers: Important Design Considerations to Maximize System Performance | Analog Devices or AN-1121 (Rev. 0) (analog.com) for more information.