I use a Futabe 9C and assign all my dual rates/expo to a single 3 position switch, thereby creating a flight mode setup. The mode for precision has low rates and less expo ( I find it easier to fly precisely this way) and the 3D mode has full travel with a good bit of expo. So fo me, a combination of expo and dual rates works best. As mentioned above, each pilot will have different needs and methods of accomplishing the desired effect.
Dave