There’s so many good braid options, I can’t decide

I’ve only used the 8lb Finesse Braid from Xbraid, and I like it.

It all depends on what you’re planning to use it for.

X-braid brand is YGK packaging for USM, sold by lb-test, rather than diameter and reported breaking strength (IGFA) in JDM.

When introduced in Japan in 2018, 4th generation drawn PE-braid, YGK WXP1, sold for $1/yd. A year later, when X-braid Upgrade was introduced and prices were back in the troposphere, it was a no-brainer to switch from 6-lb 832 to same diameter X-braid with 16-lb breaking strength. I've also consistently found that 832 average diameter is larger than reported, while X-braid diameter never exceeds reported diameter.

All JDM braid is made by Izanas, with each brand picking from Izanas menu for their drum spool - fiber grades, weave, dyes, coating.

The best coatings I've found on JDM braid are YGK, Varivas, and Duel - these brands have lasted me 3 years and longer - other brands, including Yamatoyo and one unmentioned, the coatings were simply unacceptable, and peeled from the go.

I don't think you can go wrong with X braid.

While I mix up Varivas and YGK, I fish X-braid in sizes from finesse to frogger and surf.