It is my experience that no matter what mode you fly, until you have mastered the use of the rudder, you are a 2nd-3rd rate pilot. As pointed out there are advantages and disadvantages to any mode. At the end of the day it all comes down to pilot skill.

In Europe the majority of F3A pilots fly mode 1. In the US it is about evenly split. Just proves that pilot skill is the final factor.

Safe flying!