I've used the NCE Power Cab, and while it operates similar to the bigger NCE systems, it does have on major downfall...the handheld MUST remain plugged in for the layout to operate. With the MRC system, you can unplug the throttle and walk around to the next location to plug in. The MRC throttle will also remember your locos (up to 5 on reset) when the power goes off. Neither system, that I am aware of, will power up locomotives when you turn the system on, you still must do that manually.
To answer your question; the MRC Prodigy Express was my first DCC system, and while I have upgraded to the Wireless unit, I am still satisfied with the old express system, and it's been running great for three or four years now.