There is no one true path. There equally is no one best filtration technique. The trick is to select the best filtration for both the particular setup and the tank-keeper.
For me the best technique is several filters most often, and those most commonly are canisters, both internal and external. But I do have RFUG in several tanks, supplemented with other filters for mechanical and current. I also have W/Ds, veggie filters (both submerse and emerse), plenums, sponges, FBF, etc. The only filter types I do not use are HOB (I can't stand the noise)and biowheels (ditto, plus CO2 blow-off). That is personal choice as I am neurotic about silent tanks, not anything "wrong" with the function of those filters - they do their filtration job, just not quietly enough for me.
For me the best technique is several filters most often, and those most commonly are canisters, both internal and external. But I do have RFUG in several tanks, supplemented with other filters for mechanical and current. I also have W/Ds, veggie filters (both submerse and emerse), plenums, sponges, FBF, etc. The only filter types I do not use are HOB (I can't stand the noise)and biowheels (ditto, plus CO2 blow-off). That is personal choice as I am neurotic about silent tanks, not anything "wrong" with the function of those filters - they do their filtration job, just not quietly enough for me.