Basically, you get what you pay for. I can’t knock a mini-14, but if you go that route, get one beginning with 580xxxx or newer serial number. They say these are made better and more accurate. For a few more bucks though, there are some REALLY good (and accurate) flat-top AR-15 platforms out there, and a slew of available mods and parts for them.
Watched a 10 shot 100 yard group go into 1.75” with PMC Bronze .223 through a new $535 S&W M&P Sport II with just the plastic Magpul rear sight and GI A-frame front sight.
Hard to beat that in a practical sense.
Couldn’t agree more that there are some REALLY good (and accurate) examples of the AR out there.