Best eBike brands overall

Hey everyone! I've been lurking for a bit, but I wanted to jump in and get some opinions. I'm planning my next eBike project, probably a hardtail MTB for some trail riding and commuting, and I'm really torn on which brand to base it on.

When it comes to custom builds, what do you all consider the "best" eBike brands for donor bikes or even just for sourcing quality components like motors and batteries? Are we talking Bosch, Shimano, Bafang, or are there some hidden gems out there that offer great value and reliability for a DIY project? I'm curious to hear your experiences!