I use both methods depending on what I'm doing. I haven't experienced the crashes you have but I will occasionally get delayed screen redraws when oGL. Usually, simply switching between the two resolves the problem. 

This is a Carrara issue because I have other 3D applications that do not show similar problems when in oGL. However, I personally haven't been able to reproduce it regularly which makes it a real problem to identify and report as a trackable bug. 

There is really no right or wrong way to use the two methods. I use oGL when working with transparency, hi def textures or doing 3D painting.