I have used many different types, and the Aquamaxx HOB performs as well as skimmers twice as much and fits sleekly on the back of your tank. It is quiet and doesn't add heat to your tank as the pump is inside the skimmer. The collection cup is large enough to determine whatever type of skimmate you prefer and you don't have to keep adjusting. It also has an overflow outlet. I believe it is hands down the best hob skimmer on the market and the price is awesome!!!
I was just going to recommend against a HOB skimmer because I've never used one that wasn't loud/ugly/inefficient or produced micro-bubbles, but I looked at that Aquamaxx posted above and it doesn't look too bad.
Just one comment though - it will add heat to the tank if that pump is submerged as the water its in is returned to the tank.
If it came down to a skimmer hanging off the back or side of the tank with a pump in the tank instead of neatly away in the sump, I would just use the sump as a refugium and not use a skimmer at all. It will be fine with your normal water changes.
No sump for a refugium, a hang on skimmer like the Reef Octopus is nice and clean looking.