I don't find hardware wallet user friendly.
If you follow the instructions, I've always considered the major hardware wallets to be extremely user friendly. Make sure not to just write them off.
I am quite happy with exodus. What is the security risk it may have?
-Their code is closed source, so even though this is unlikely, they could implement malicious code without our knowing.
-Hardware wallets are not affected by the viruses that plague PCs - if you get a virus it could potentially steal your BTC.
I backed up the private key so even if they shut down, I can still get my btc??
Yes.