I traditionally have my barber do #2 on the sides and #4 on top. My hair is also thinning (I'll be 40 next year). I grow a full beard. A while back I did the opposite... 90's grunge hair and I would trim the face with the clippers once a week. hated combing hair and the helmet head that went with wearing a lid.

I did get a neck gator to wear during cold weather. Allows me to keep the beard all winter longer. Love it!