Try not to let others' views on planes affect which one you choose. Let them give you the data and then make your own conclusions. If they give an opinion whether it's 'that plane's uber' or 'that plane is useless' make up your OWN conclusion after youve heard FACTS. Research what people say if you're not sure of its credibility.
A point I like to state is choose a plane. Depending on which one it is, you may wish to fly a few other planes to help you master your first choice. Before I flew the F4U Corsair, I flew my Spit like any other dweeb... in circles. After flying the Hog, I learned a totally new style of combat which really helped me find success in the Spitfire. Any immature little kid who complained about my noobishness didn't know my story so I just didn't say anything. Nothing pisses 'em off more than receiving no words from someone they're sadly attempting to insult.