Hey guys, I'm looking to buy an entry level mountain bike under $450 and I've looked at the Specialized Hardrock, Giant ATX, Cannondale Catalyst 4, Trek 3500, and a few others. However, I read some bike forums and they suggested that Diamondback was a better buy since most of the components are the same brand (sram/shimano) and the frames are probably built in the same place.

I'm new to mountain biking so I'm hesitant to buy Diamondback mainly because they aren't sold at my local bike shops, although I've read that I'm basically paying extra for the name at this price range if I go with the other brands. Is this true? Is Diamondback the better value for the price?

pic related: it's the bike I'm looking to buy off amazon for $430.