Comparing the latest and greatest
It takes work to compare the latest and the greatest with the 95%, the 90%, the 85% or lower item. It's not just one item. More expensive items usually do something not done with older models. Or why else is it more expensive? If you're not buying the most expensive, a general comparison has to be made.
If I were hunting with a newbie, I'd bring him to a big box sporting goods store, and point out the many wonderful products.
How many could he buy at that moment? How many in his lifetime? If you hunt for years, there is something you won't buy or can afford? Even if you could use it.
If it works can I work with it? Can you work with limitations ? With a stand, am I fit enough to carry it? Carry it how far? Is it limiting me to one area? How much weight can I carry?