Close your eyes, open your ears, and let your hands tell you what they can. The name on the headstock means nothing. The country of origin only affects the shipping cost.

The best Strat I've ever owned was a 1986 MIJ '62 re-issue. I rewired it for master Volume & Tone because I kept jamming my knuckles into that damned knob next to the bridge.

If it feels right, and it sounds right without an amp, it's a good one. Pickups and switchgear are easily upgraded. If the basics are right, you can go from there.

I prefer a mid-60s Yamaha SG-2 to any Strat these days. The ergonomics are just so much better for me. To each their own...