Has anyone tried the smaller paracords for edc?

I don't know about EDC, but I employ braided nylon mason's twine on many (if not all) of my lightweight tarps that are deployed in the construction of shelters. They are significantly lighter and adequately strong. I also tuck away some lengths in various packs, because cordage, of course, can be very handy. There are lots of alternatives to paracord that are quite suitable.

For smaller kits I'm a fan of Gearward's Compact Survival Cord (no affiliation). Smaller paracords should be fine for any reasonable shelter building tasks.

I actually never really cared for paracord. Any cord will do for me. For shelter building and more bushcraft like activities, i like twine.

For other things prussic cord seems to pop up everywhere, but i'm a climber.

I think you would have to experiment to see what would work best for you. You may want to consider getting a spool of B-50 bowstring string. That stuff is pretty useful.

I really like 275 cord (4 strand). Half the weight and bulk, tighter weave so it doesn't snag and unknots easily.

http://atwoodrope.com

makes all sizes and colors, even glow cord.

I am a fan of MIL-C-5040 Type 1A cord. It is essentially smaller diameter 550.
1/16" diameter with 100lb tensile strength.