Look at the area you will be hunting the most, and if you will be moving around a lot. If you will not be moving your stand daily then I would suggest a fixed position stand. Then look for one with a seat height that is compatable to your height and one that will give the greatest comfort while in the stand. Yep a comfy seat. A comfy hunter is a better hunter and you will be able to stay in the stand longer. If moving around often then look for a stand that has good seat height, good comftorable seat itself and a platform that is not to small. Then you must choose which manufacturer and type of stand you want also the weight of the stand will comeinto equation. If you are packing a long way you will not want a heavy stand but do not sacrifice to much to get a light weight stand. Stands are as different as bows and trucks it all depends upon the owner and how they feel about it. Some like Fords,Chevys while others like Toyota's and Nissans.