Hi Michael,
It's not a black or white decision - there are many, many shades of grey in tyre selection.
For example, I'm sure you are aware of premium brands like Pirelli, Dunlop, Michelin, Goodyear, Continental, and Bridgestone (and others) and these makers have a pecking order - and then there's the different tyre models in their ranges.
You need to be quite specific about your needs - tyre life or grip, wet weather grip or noise levels - and then pick the right tyre for you with the help of an authoritative internet tyre review.
I'd suggest looking at www.tyretest.com
Robert