The HF folding hoists are pretty good actually, I've used the 6 caster model specifically - surprisingly one of HF's better tool buys. The 5 ton roll around floor jack is also surprisingly good. I've been using both of these tools for about 2 years now while I "store" them for a friend
The hoist is more versatile for more things, you can upgrade to an air operated lift cylinder(very handy) and beef it up as you see fit if the need arises. I don't care for tranny jacks, I do like to make plate adapters that fit onto the roll around jack specific to each tranny, diff, Tcase, etc...that seems to be the best method I have found.
For the first time ever, I would suggest buying HF junk and getting both - I have never reccommended HF junk before but for your purpose and not full-time shop use, these are pretty good. Just get both and you'll be set. Sell whichever you don't want to keep or sell both when the job is through, they won't loose much value...they don't have much to begin with
