DOT and Snell are good minimums, but you really want headear that FITS, too.  Different gourds fit into different helmets.  after DOT/Snell and fit, then I'd say personal preferences come into play, such as vents, colors, styling, price, etc.

I bought a 95 dollar Fulmer to start off in because it was approved and it fit, nothing else.  I got tired of the poor venting and high-speed whistling within 6 months, and bought an HJC.  Now a nearly-new 95 dollar helmet sits on my entertainment center, collecting dust... so how much money did that cheap helmet save me?  :dunno:   just a thought

good luck with your shopping.  

I tried on a few different style Vega helmets at a local dealer because they were too cheap NOT to look at.  My opinion is that they suck - they are poorly made, the finish on them is cheaper than any other helmet I've seen and the worst part was the lining.  The lining was a rough cloth, and not comfortable at all.  Maybe this thing will protect you in a crash, but you don't want to be wearing this thing all the time.
I've seen quite a few closeouts for HJC & KBC helmets with NEW Snell2000 approved helmets in the 90-140 range.  I'd suggest sticking with that...

my old helmet was a vega.. didnt have any issues with it..

The lining later on became loose (about 2 yrs of use) but its still quieter than my HJC which is my current helmet. I still have my vega with me.

Vega is a dirt bike manufactuer, but the fact that they can produce cheap helmets with decent quality and pass Snell M2000.. I think its worth it.

My vega is super quiet, but that is compared to an HJC and my Schuberth.    I had no issues with the quality in the year that i have owned it, but I had to get a new helmet because in hindsight, the vega didn't fit me.  The cheek pads were way too tight.  I kept biting my cheeks.  Other than that it's not uncomfortable, even if it is unremarkable in any category. I would wear it before my HJC anyday, if the stupid thing fit.  The flip up face and storm trooper visor on the schuberth are too cool in a dorky kind of way to pass up though...plus it is the only helmet that truly fits my funny shaped head.  Do danes have funny shaped heads?  Supposedly I'm a good part danish...