I started out with a Xdeck when they came out. (used for 5 yrs) Pros: polydecking, arched ramp, cost, easy to remove and install, under deck lighting. Cons; wiring isn't the greatest, plastic guided on ramp don't last too long with chipping off, slides don't retract to smoothly. winch eyelets pulled off when winching atv down.
I now run Truck boss. Pros: All aluminum (wont rush or need deck replacing ever), pull out slides are smooth, ability to add accessories to channels. Sealed to your bo (no wateror dirt in the box) Fit and finish is top notch. Cons: being modular,it takes a good 6hrs to install, heavy deck (I'd guess approx. 500lbs). Pricey
Best thing you can do with any deck is have it armour guarded. The Marlon I bought had it done from factory and it's way yyyyy better tan paint or powder.
I bought my first deck a couple weeks ago for $1100, used X-deck, slides fines, had to repair a couple wires to connect to my trailer plug, other than that it's in excellent condition. I could not justify spending $3000 plus for a first deck, I will use this for a couple years and if needed buy a better one.
Truckboss here. Use it year round for everything. Winch was the best option I added. Endless mounting options and tie down locations. The only issue I have ran in to is the knobs that tighten down to hold the slide out in rusted in place. My fault though for not using anti seize. Like mentioned before they take awhile to take in and out. But they do come out in one peace.
I bought a new X-deck last year. It came with all the glides for 2 sleds. its light, easy to get in and out and pricing was excellent. Is it as nice as some of the other ones... no. but i wasn't going to spend 4-6K on a high end deck. My X-deck was $2150 all in with the glides. NO cracked welds, the lights all work and 10.5 foot ramp is not very steep.
I had the Marlon but found the decking warped and twisted very quickly. I had bought the shorter version to make the tailgate accessible but found it too short for the 155s.
Heard Full Lotus was the way to go but wanted to hear what you all found.
M-Line has been by far the best deck I've had. Mine has held up to abuse that my previous ones wouldn't have stood a chance. They're not cheap but you get what you pay for when it comes to decks.
Going on year 6 with running a marathon classic. Only think I don't like is the rear slides always freeze in after a wash if parked outside. Im sure others are like that, and it doesn't bother me cause I never put them in till im back from a trip anyway.