Looking to get a hardtail bike. I went and rode a Trek Roscoe 8 and Specialized Fuse Comp. I liked the Trek better so far. I also plan to test out a Norco Fluid and Giant Fathom. Anyone here have experience with these bikes? Which bike might give me more options to upgrade in the future?

I can't spend much more than $1500 so I'm limited to these bikes. I'd also prefer a dropper post which is why I'm looking at these bikes in particular.