There are 100's of makers and opinions on who makes the best.
What you need to know.
1) buy mil spec
2) don't buy a poly lower
3) don't take opinions from your coworker based on his hours of playing COD
4) because it costs more doesn't make it better
5) you don't absolutely have to have a dust cover and forward assist like your 395 pound neighbor that thinks he's a tactical operator says
6) no matter who's name is stamped on the lower and other parts they're all made in the same places. There's only a handful of factories that make lowers and bolt carriers and such. They just stamp names on them.
Barrel length is decided by what you want to do with it. 16" is standard and a good do all length. You want long range get longer. I prefer 10".
Stock, Grip and Forend are personal preference. Find what you like. I prefer Magpul stock and Forend and an Ergo grip
Sights and optics are also personal preference. I use magpul flip sights and a Lucid optic.
You just want an entry level play rifle to take to range and keep around the house, any off the shelf AR will work. You want one your way, building one is pretty easy.
PSA offers many good combinations and very good prices for a good do all standard rifle.
Go to the store and gun shows, handle them all and find the the things you like and dislike and go from there.
I can order anything you want or build one for you from the parts you prefer also.