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Z.
I am researching entry level mountain bikes myself to replace my $150 bycicle so I can share with you my ideas so far.
Dual shocks are for aggresive downhill riding. If you only ride around town and light trails a dual shock will only add weight and cost (you will get less bike for your money).
All bikes use Shimano components (well, not all but most). You need to know the hierarchy between Shimano components, which for mountain bikes is Tourney < Altus < Acera < Alivio < Deore < ... (there are more levels upwards but they are not relevant to your needs). Tourney is basically what I have in my $150 bike and hope to get around Alivio for the $600 new bike.
Most bikes mix the components so you can have an Acera levers and an Alivio derailleur or vice-versa. So you will want to check the full component list and compare them.
If you link the specific bikes you are looking at it will be easier to recommend you one.
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