I went the lower cost option to start because, while I thought I might attempt doing full grooms one day, I wasn't committed just yet. Trying the lower cost option first, and for long enough to justify the cost to my budget, made sense for me.
If you're committed to doing the full grooming yourself regardless of some initial and possible amusing results, then I'd agree that spending the money one time, even if it is a higher starting investment, is the way to go, if you can.
The AGC2 is also a nice step up for the additional $40 ish, if you can swing that.
I've learned from DH and his hobby of working on unusual cars that the right tool for the job is the best investment.
Either way you approach this, buying from a source like Chewy or Amazon is a good move since their CS is darn good overall, if you need to make a change. It also helps that you can search online for 15% off coupons for Chewy at retailmenot, etc, and if there's one that works, that can take the price down. It looks like the same model on Amazon and on Chewy to me so either source should be a good choice. Eventually your starter clipper can become your back up clipper so it's still a reasonable way to go.
Some older threads on grooming supplies have also mentioned ebay as a source, used or new, so if you're ok with ebay, check there for pricing.
A lot of members have also separately purchased a mini version of the clippers for doing feet. I also ended up doing that.
I bought my primary clipper thru Chewy since that was my biggest investment and I wanted a company with customer service I could work with.
I bought my mini clipper thru ebay tho. Most folks are buying Wahl minis but those usually run more than the clippers I started with, so I kept looking. It turns out that Andis also has a mini version which sells for $50 +/- on theirs and other sites. For that one I went to ebay and took a chance buying a new one for $16.00 and it was new and works very nicely on the feet and other small bits.
The same Mini Trimmer At PetSmart
Andis® ProClip Ion Pet Hair Trimmer
by
Andis
Item #5250652
Discounted Price$28.99Old Price$59.99
View attachment 464600
I'm remembering that you're thinking of setting up your grooming station in a living area. I'm sure you've thought of this but the trainer in me asks anyway if there's an outlet handy for the corded clippers?
I thought of something else. I think I know that Wahl and Oster blades are interchangeable, but that Andis uses a different design and may not be. Check on that before you decide on using a 2 different manufacturer strategy.