Successful use of toe clips needs a number of things to work together:
Clips the correct size (S/M/L)
Straps the right tension : I prefer quite loose. If you have to use them tight for "efficiency" then you are better off clipless.
Shoes with a clean profile and not-too knobbly sole.
Pedals with a well aligned axle. Bent axles cause the pedal to wobble and are really bad for your knees.


Shimano leisure cycling shoes have a series of slots for toe-clip users, but these assume that
the orientation of the shoe in the pedal is normal. I prefer to keep some free rotation on my shoes, so avoid slots and knobbles on the sole.

It is easy to get these factors wrong and find clips difficult to use. By comparison, clipless may seem easy. Get them right and you will be happy enough in clips.
I avoid clipless because the rotation required for exit hurts a knee injury.