Who plays the better Buffy?
Sarah Michele Gellar.
Why?
Because, IMHO, she is a better actress.
Judging by the few performances I have seen Kristy Swanson in, I can’t imagine her carrying Buffy with the same strengths that SMG has brought to the character.
But she is hot!
I read that Charisma Carpenter auditioned for the role. But she is, and will always be, Cordelia in my mind. It is odd that SMG also auditioned for Cordielia (and got the part) before being asked to try out for Buffy. Hmm. How the series might have been different.
I have also read that Elizabeth Anne Allen, who plays Amy the witch, also auditioned for the role of Buffy.
As did Julie Benz, who plays Darla.
As did Katie Holmes (Dawson’s Creek).
As did Selma Blair, the girl who kissed SMG in Cruel Intentions.
I'm wondering how Buffy might have been different if someone else had played the role. They must have had massive auditions for the part of Buffy when the series was in development.