Originally Posted by
BlazingPedals
I tend to stay away from Shimano chains only because I like having a quick connect instead of a one-use pin. Otherwise, they all work equally well for me. I have SRAM and I have Shimano drivetrains and I've never noticed a difference between chains. You need a chain tool even with a quick-link, because you still have to break the chain to the correct length.
KMC sells missing links for other chain brands.
I buy a $13 card of six every few years to go with my Campagnolo chains (10CR).
Pin and plate hardness varies between brands, and more or less can double or halve chain life. Pick a chain brand for life and silence, and use a separate master link if your chosen brands comes with single use pins for joining the ends.