MIM Fender Strat vs Squier standard strat?

I agree with the other respondents. If you are not buying a premium guitar (Made in USA Fender or Gibson etc.) then the feel and playability, or your gut reaction to the axe, must govern your choice. There is no resale value so buy it if it works for you. We all have a budget guitar that plays and sounds well above the way it should "on paper".