I prefer a quilt frame to a hoop. I like that it holds my 3 layers securely without basting, and the quilt is off my lap and away from the cat (particularly in summer!). I've never been able to quilt without a hoop or the frame, and since you have to baste really well to keep the layers from shifting, I'm not apt to try it anytime soon.
I think some new quilters have trouble with the hoop because they keep the quilt sandwich tension too tight, like you would for embroidery. That's why hoopless quilting is so attractive to some.
However, in the end it doesn't matter - no one will ever know how you hand quilted, just that you did. Good luck with your quilting!
Janet