One instrument isn't better than another per say. They each serve different purposes,
whether it's a crisper tone, or just an easier instrument to master in general,
it's a-matter-o' opinion.
Brands in my opinion are not as important as what the clarinet is made out of. If it is a wood instrument, and not a plastic one, the sound is so much better and much more clear. Wooden clarinets will be more expensive than plastic clarinets.
Noblet, Yamaha, Vito, Buffet are some of the most popular brands. Before purchase, you should consider the quality, material (wood or plastic, and price and how they affect you.