I would say there are two main categories of "hybrid" bike, though lines are blended all the time. The "fitness" type (look up a Trek FX or Raleigh Cadent) generally have a slightly sportier riding position and quicker handling. They will feel very connected to the road and very quick to maneuver. The "comfort" type (look up a Trek Verve or Specialized Crossroads) will typically have a more upright riding style and may offer greater riding comfort at the expense of maneuverability and agility. Obviously, "comfort" is subjective, and different bikes will feel different to everyone. I would encourage you to ride a few different models from each brand. In Trek, an FX and a Verve will ride very differently. In Specialized, a Crossroads and a Sirrus will probably ride very differently. Above all else, you need to find something that is comfortable FOR YOU.

I personally ride a 2015 Trek Verve 3 as my "daily driver". Our daughter has a Raleigh Alysa (the "female version" of the Cadent) and I like riding it also (though I find the Verve's geometry to be more comfortable to me). My dad has a Trek DS, and I think that's a comfortable bike as well -- it has more of a comfort/mountain bike setup than a "fitness" geometry. In general, the more aggressive the riding style, the less comfortable I am on it. Upright positions aren't for everyone, though, and trying various models from multiple brands will be the best way to find what you like.

In general, I would recommend you get one with a rear freehub and cassette vs. something with a freewheel. Most bikes with freewheels will come with a low-line Shimano Tourney drivetrain. These are serviceable bikes (it's what our daughter's Raleigh has), and very usable. They just aren't as refined as ones with better drivetrains, and the freewheel design isn't quite as robust as a freehub, mostly due to the freehub putting the drive side wheel bearing out at the end of the freehub, rather than near the center of the axle, as is the case with a freewheel. The freewheel design results in a greater potential of bending an axle, just because of where the load is supported. Freehubs and cassettes are much less prone to axle problems. Something with a freehub and cassette will likely also come with a Shimano Acera or Alivio drivetrain, which is a step up from a Tourney drivetrain, both in refinement and durability. Base model bikes, with Tourney stuff, will also likely have twist shifters vs. trigger shifters. In general, trigger shifters are regarded as superior to twist shifters, especially the Tourney-grade Shimano Revoshift twist shifters.

Otherwise, components are fairly standardized. It's not like cars where Honda uses Honda parts, Ford uses Ford parts, etc. Treks, Cannondales, and Giants will all generally be using Shimano derailleurs, KMC chains, Suntour cranks, and Formula hubs. These are very standard components at this price point. You will find some variation depending on brand and model, but most of this stuff is interchangeable in terms of physical fitment and quality level.

Let the bike comfort guide your purchase rather than a specific brand.