The range of flavors and varieties of cuisine from Northern to Southern India is akin to how the food in New York is very different from the food in Texas! That's a roundabout way to say there a zillion blends of combinations of curry powder and of garam masala. And companies who make them. And it can be overwhelming to decide on which brand and exact type of spice when there are so many choices! Very much like trying to decide on a bottle of wine. Personally, when I don't know what I'm looking for, I read the reviews on Amazon; in this case the reviews on their top sellers and on their 'Amazon's Picks'. Or go to a local spice store if you have one and ask their opinions, or go to an ethnic market if you have one. As with anything, it's trial and error. I am currently using this garam masala and either mild or hot curry powder depending on my mood. They both get great reviews on Amazon which is frankly how I selected them in the first place!