I started out with a 16" Craftsman because of price and uncertainty of the hobby. Well, it wasn't long and I was hooked. A year later I upgraded to a Craftsman 20" because I was doing bigger projects. Then one day I was in a specialty tool store that carried Excalibur. There on display was a 30" Excalibur and to top it off they had reduced the price. After doing my research and reading endless reviews on this saw and company I took the plunge. That was almost 20 years ago and I haven't regretted ever since. This saw is amazing. It for sure will outlast me. I would go with the saw within your budget because all three brands are good and if operated and maintained properly will give you the same end result. Like buying a car. They will all get you from A to B. Good luck with your decision.