I had the two-sided platform/spd pedals, came stock on my bike. I tried to use them, but after a while I gave up. The problem that I had was that the spd side was heavier than the flat side and it would hang down, I'd have to spin the pedal 180 degrees to be able to clip in, all while still pedaling. It was just too much hassle.
I didn't give up on clipless pedals though. I bought some Crankbrothers Egg Beaters and use those now. I can clip in from just about any angle and I love them. They make some that have a platform around them too so you can get the best of both worlds, although I haven't used those.