Question on test kits and hydrometer vs refractometer

[Laz A]

I know Salifert and La Motte and Elos all make great kits but since I need to buy 5 at the same time to have atleast the basics and still need the rest of my stuff I was wondering which brand to buy and not break the bank. This is temp and I will upgrade them as time goes by and they start running out.

I was also wondering how well I can survive with a hydrometer instead of a refractometer? This is also just temp, I will be upgrading to a refractometer in the near future. I just dont have a ton of money to go for the nice expensive stuff all at once.

Thanks
Laz