There is really no point in arguing which is better, or whether one or the other is somehow ineffective. The fact is that built and used right, any of the 3 options is overpowering and extremely effective. Choosing the "wrong" one is not going to lead anyone to an imminent demise. The thread is simply about preference.
As I said, I like the sword and shield for my first character as it's a change of pace from my usual MO. I find the active blocking in this game far better than most, especially since many games simply treat a shield as an ornamental stat booster.
As far as damage, I am pretty happy with a 1h sword with almost 300 displayed damage. I am able to load up on fortify 1H enchants because between the 50% of elemental perk and the 30% on the Otar mask, I am at 80% resists to fire, frost and shock by simply raising my shield. No enhancements slots used, other than putting magic resist on the shield.