I usually use the various options for a contrived test case or two, hack together a quick trade study, and pick something that meets my needs. Not so possible with hardware or closed-source though...
The background is that after doing some thorough evaluations (and debriefings) for my last startup, I thought this must be re-done over and over by founders. So I'm considering making some kind of for-pay info-product aimed at tech founders. Also looking for authors ;)