I would guess some of it depends on your goals and purpose. Last year, I went with the hype and bought seed from Hancock Seed. All I really am after is bare soil coverage for the winter months with my dog running around. In the spring, I killed it all off. So not being a front yard showcase, the Hancock was probably overkill for me. This year, I spent half as much getting seed from Tractor Supply. My goals are the same, and I'm killing it in the spring again.

 

ChampionGQ from Hancock has served me well.

 

I've had good luck with Empro Ace from Ewing in the past. This year I used this and it is fabulous so far. There is an extreme shortage of seed this year, at least around here. I think you'll be limited to whatever you can find this year.