Get loan via brokers vs. directly from banks

[Chris Penny]

I know this is a very basic question but it's still a myth to me. A broker is like a middle man so I guess I would save if I get a loan directly from banks, wouldn't I? Of course working with brokers has the advantage of getting rates from multiple lenders at the same time, but can I just shop around enough to get a good one? Then why are brokers so popular? Am I missing any points? Thanks