I had several lesser saws before getting my 36 inch, 1.75hp PCS. I built a lot of furniture for me and my kids with the lesser saws but it is sure nice to have a nicer saw. I can't say that it has changed what I can make or how well it is made but it is just easier to do good work. The last lesser saw I had was a Ryobi BT3100. I used it for around 10 years until the height mechanism threads wore out. I had extension rails on it and I could rip about 60 inches to the left of the blade. But it was huge and I struggled to position it within my small shop. Then I got a track saw and knew I didn't need that big a table saw. The combination of a track saw and a smaller table saw work great for me. I have zero desire to "upgrade". The track saw really helps with managing sheet goods. I can back my truck up to the shop garage and slide a sheet directly onto my outfeed/assembly/track saw cutting table. Then use the track saw to cut to finished size if it's a big piece or rough cut it if I want to make smaller pieces on the table saw. I can still handle full sheets of 3/4 other ways but if I had a bunch to do they would definitely go from truck to cutting station.
I used the lesser saws for about 40 years with no injury from them. Then early last year I got stupid raising a dado blade through the throat plate and needed six stitches and a splint for a broken bone despite the blade brake. Without the safety system I would have lost the end of at least one finger. It can happen. SawStops are pricey but not much if any more than other really nice cabinet saws. The safety system is a good idea. Even experienced careful woodworkers can make a mistake. I don't think you give up anything in the quality of the saw to get the blade brake. It and it's electronics were a nuisance at first and I still keep the manual handy if the lights start blinking but that hardly ever happens any more.
I am happy with my 1.75 hp motor now that I have learned it needs thin kerf blades. I cannot imagine needing more than 3hp. I rip 3 inch hardwood and softwood fine with the 1.75hp motor. By fine I mean regular to slightly reduced feed rate and a clean cut. Occasionally goofy grain can make it a bit harder but the saw has always gotten it done.
Lastly, I use a "2hp" HF DC that you at least used to be able to get under $200. You have to budget for different filters and/or a cyclone too but for $500 or so, I have a DC I also do not have any desire to upgrade. I have it set up with 5 inch snap lock and one long flex for infrequently used tools. You don't have to spend a ton of money to have a decent DC. I used to use a 1hp Delta and it did not do a good job at all. The HF is much more capable. I'm sure the 3-5hp DCs do better but I am good with my HF.