Start with where you park and how far you drive. That will often tell you more about which powertrain suits you than an argument about which technology is best.
A conventional hybrid uses a gasoline engine and electric assistance. You fill it with fuel and drive it; there is no plug-in charging routine to arrange. A plug-in hybrid carries a larger rechargeable battery as well as an engine. A battery-electric car runs from its battery and needs an external source of electricity.
Those differences have consequences you will notice long before you think about the engineering.
A regular hybrid fits a routine without charging
If you want to reduce fuel use without arranging charging, a conventional hybrid deserves an early look. Its battery receives energy from the engine and regenerative braking. The system manages that process as you drive.
For someone who parks on the street, changes parking places often, and has no dependable charging access, that simplicity can be worth a lot. There is little value in designing a purchase around a charger you hope will become available.
Compare the actual models, though. A hybrid badge does not tell you the purchase premium or how much fuel you will save on your routes.
A plug-in hybrid needs a reason to be plugged in
Imagine a driver whose daily travel fits within a plug-in hybrid's usable electric range and who can charge overnight. Much of that routine may use electricity, while the engine remains available for longer journeys. Depending on the model and conditions, the engine can also run before the battery is depleted.
Now imagine the same vehicle bought by someone who rarely charges it. It can still operate, but much of the reason for paying for the larger plug-in battery is being left unused. Compare that price with a conventional hybrid before choosing.
An electric car asks for a workable charging routine
With a battery-electric vehicle, regular charging is part of ownership. Reliable overnight charging can make that routine convenient. Frequent long trips require more attention to charging stops, and an owner relying on public charging needs to evaluate the locations and costs they will actually face.
Choose a few specific vehicles and compare them against the same week of driving. Include the ordinary trips and the longer journey you make often enough to matter. Then compare purchase price, energy costs, space, and equipment.
The right choice should make your normal use easier to manage. Buy for the driving you do, with a practical plan for the exceptions.