You will be able to do less frequent water changes growing macroalgae in a sump and using a skimmer. Canisters do not let you do that and weekly water changes will be important.
If you compare the water quality, the "canister + large (30-50%) weekly water changes" combo has superior water quality than the skimmer + macroalgae (water change every 3-4 weeks, or tiny every week). Basically you'll be paying more money and time for the superior water quality. Canisters aren't a bad thing at all in this regard.