There are different types of quilting hoops. In general, smaller hoops such as 12" and 14" tend to be easier to use than large hoops (such as 16" or 18") just because it's hard to reach and sew. My preferred hoop is no longer available, but it is a lap hoop. If I had to replace it, I would probably get this one:
https://www.graceframe.com/en/hand-q...race-lap-hoops
What I like about mine is that it sits at an appropriate height in my lap so I don't have to worry about juggling it while I quilt, or prop it up against something. The swivel allows me to adjust the angle of the quilt for the direction that is easiest for me to quilt. And, there is very little underneath to interfere with my underneath hand.
Before getting the one I have, I tried a stationary lap hoop. This is a lap hoop that does not include the swivel feature. I found that the support struts interfered more with my underneath hand. Also, it was not possible to adjust the tilt of the quilt. Being able to adjust both the tilt and angle of the quilt is very helpful to me.
I started out with just a hoop. Although I could quilt with it, it was hard to try to juggle its position while using both hands to quilt. I never thought to prop it up, as some others describe, and see how that could work. However, that is pretty much a fixed position, so you still do not have the ability to easily change the tilt and angle of the hoop as you work.