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From my understanding, it seems like Vault rank will have very little to do with your ability to make partner. That will be highly relationship dependent regardless. From the sounds of your post, you liked the people at the V50 better. That is probably your best gauge of what to do.
Subject Expert
There is very minimal, if any, brand value in Big Law. You'll be a cog wherever you go firmwise.
Mentor
Why the heck are you comparing vault rankings? Go to whichever seems like it will give you a better life.
Everyone lies on the Vault survey anyway.
Coach
If you must consider rankings, just look at chambers in your specific practice / geographical area. Law500 is tangentially a good resource too.
How senior are you, and how seriously do you want to make partner versus government? And of gov’t, does one group have better ties (eg, alums in the office you want to work in)? I don’t think there’s much difference as far as brand - the people in the group, the clients you work for, and the substantive experiences you get are going to matter much more.
Enthusiast
I’d survey folks here about each firm (by name) to get a gauge on their reputation and culture. Rankings alone aren’t really enough for anyone here to give you any valuable insights.
Go where you have a better feel for your potential colleagues and partners. If partnership is your goal, you will definitely need people who are willing to take you under their wing, and sponsor and advocate for you. I’m a senior associate who lateraled about a year ago and I’m thinking of making another move because the partners in my group have been super detached and unsupportive.
Look for a mentor and good work where you will learn and thrive without sacrificing your mental health. No money or brand will help if you are bored, criticized, aggravated or underutilized. Look at the Above the Law percentages of associates who would choose that firm again if you want decent data. But go with your gut.
Try just googling the firm name and “above the law” - it should come up on the ATL profile of that firm.