There are a number of variables that affect a purchase. I' m assuming these stands are in a remote spot where you are going to leave them out. If that is the case, and you don' t have to worry about theft then a screw in step would work.

There is a reason Ameristep is one of the cheaper brands out there. They are not always the easiest to start in the tree. I think Game Trackers Gorilla series are better. As has been mentioned Canford is the easiest to start although the folding kind can be hard on your hands. Deer Me tree steps start fairly easily but are spindley. I like them for bow hangers.

If you take your steps out each time you leave the stand then I would recommend The Skyhook system. You put a lag screw in the tree and then attach a step to it. I have used the folding ones for years and never had a failure. The folding ones are light and don' t take up much room. They aren' t cheap but they are convienient if one has to take out the steps each time. Obviously you leave the lag screw in and simply pull off the step.