I do my research before purchasing "big items." I settled on a ~$300 Toro about 5 years ago and don't regret it.

I have used my neighbors 5 year old honda, and it cuts great, it has dual blades and the chipping are extremely fine. I really didn't like the speed son tool system which is just a stepped lever from turtle to rabbit. I also don't like the fact that it has no side ejwction. Wtf is that fluff? I'd does have a nifty feature where you can step the size of the bag opening, just for the fact that it is an interesting idea, how practical it is I don't know, as it isn't my mower and I hadn't used it many times.

As long as it comes with a honda or brigs and straton or honda engine, it really just comes down to personal preference, and the layout of your lawn. The latter being fairly important in choosing a mower.