It's kind of a toss up with all those 'hybrids'. I didn't check out the specs closely, but they are all very similar from first glance--wider tires fender and rack mounts--what you need as a commuter. Which ever one fits your budget, and which ever one fits you and feels most comfortable, get that one.

Not sure what you mean by hybrids being a joke. There's nothing wrong with hybrid bikes. I own one myself (Giant Rapid 2). However, I prefer to ride a drop bar. If you prefer to ride a hybrid don't let nonsense talk dissuade from it.

Cross bikes are also great. They give you the versatility of being able to mount racks and fenders, as well as the comfort of wider tires in a drop bar package. I use that one for most of my commutes.