I'd spend a little extra and go the Norco Storm 2 for the simple fact you pick up the 1x drivetrain (a massive improvement over the 3x drivetrain). If you are happy to wait a little, the Aldi hardtail was amazing bang for buck at $450. 1x drivetrain, and made by Polygon (decent brand) they were an absolute steal. No idea when they'll do them again though.