Face to face communication is the best, because you can see the body language also. You can see and express emotions, react quickly and see if somebody is lying too.
I agree that face to face is best but depending on the subject. If it is related to business or any form of contract, it needs to be documented and agreed to in writing.
There is a saying: "An oral agreement isn't worth the paper it is written on"
True, but there is another saying as well. "If his word is no good, his signature is no better". Oral agreements are perfectly suitable, if both parties are honorable people.