My answer is 100 articles on our own blog and internal links from them will make more sense than backlinks.
Best Answer
Google uses a known data processing method called hierarchal agglomerative clustering. This is a process that seeks to find value inside of your own website and apply it outwards through internal link structure.
There are many examples of websites who have built traffic and authority to themselves by being the comprehensive solution for all things related to the niche with dozens of high quality blogs, on page tactics and internal pass through of traffic.
This usually requires an adept understanding of SEO and is much harder to do than purchasing backlinks, but it can be done!
Also, Google “Hierarchal Agglomerative Clustering” for more information.
But as a general view, I have always seen faster improvements in rankings & traffic with new (well written and well optimized) content over back links.
If your site has a really strong link profile already, than internal links can have a big impact on your rankings.
On the other hand, if there is no link equity to manipulate through your internal links, then you could publish 100 posts or 1000 posts. It won’t move the needle much for anything competitive.