I have both and just started myself. The Paddle strop was easy to use, not sure if I would say easier to use than my Star Shaving Big Daddy strop. But it is what I started with first as I transitioned in a couple of weeks to the hanging strop. I enjoy using the hanging strop more. I did manage to dull my razor on the paddle strop initially by using too much pressure but that can happen with the hanging one also. I think it is easier to use too pressure on the paddle though as it is not as yielding as the hanging one. If I had to do it again, I would have bought just the hanging strop. Though the paddle can be used for CrOx paste which is likely what I will repurpose it for now.

Good luck!