I assume we're comparing a Checkpoint AL 3 to a Topstone Sora, right?
If so, the Sora is $1050 and the Checkpoint is $1199. As they're both mechanical Sora and aluminum frames, I'd absolutely go for the Topstone and use the $150 to get some accessories.
I've got about 35-40 miles on a Topstone demo and own a Checkpoint (a carbon model). So my direct comparison of these two bikes is somewhat tangential. But you could do a lot with the $150 (slick tires, nice shoes, some new shorts, maybe some lights, whatever you might need).