These days, most people (in the UK at least) learn mode 2. With a single stick for pitch and roll, it is of course similar to full size control and since everyone buys a Tx with at least 5 channels, there are no issues with the hardware. Mode 1 flyers seem to be predominantly people like me who started with two channel sets where the sticks only moved in one axis each. Moving later to "full house" transmitters didn't change the choice of primary control. For each mode, there are people who will swear that their mode is the best. For example, mode 1 flyers will tell you that having the roll and pitch on separate sticks reduces the risk of control input when it's not needed! However, I don't personally think there is any disadvantage in using any mode and in my opinion, the fact that there are top class pilots using mode 1, 2, 3 and 4 backs this up. So I think the best option for beginners is to go for the most popular mode on the local flying field, in order for others to be able to support them. For those like me used to one mode, I would recommend staying with it. Finally, there are two additional advantages from mode 2: i) you can fly those simple quads and helicopters which come with transmitters. They seem to be 95% mode 2, and ii) you don't need to reconfigure your new transmitter when you buy it!