If you don't need illume and want the best value (I think) with better glass then get a Athlon Midas TAC 5-25 which has a 34mm tube.
I've been behind one SE and the turrets didn't line up well as well they were on the mushy side. Glass was ok I thought.
The G1 Ares scopes I had, 3 of them, had pretty distinct clicks but the action was on the soft side as far as turrets go. Then I went to G2 Ares scopes, 2 of them, and except for glass they had much better turrets, very nice actually.
Though for some odd reason the Ares glass does not suit my eyes??? So I sold them too.
The Athlon Helos G2 6-24 is a very nice scope, they did a good job on it! The glass is about the same as the Ares to me and all the controls are great for this price range! It just a keeper. I like it better than the SE and any Ares I've had. I'd pick it over the SE all day long!!!
Speaking of the Ares series, the ETR is flat out worth the extra money IMHO. These are a good pick and I was very happy with the ETR I had except the reticle which I didn't like which is why I sold it.
Back to the Midas TAC. It has better glass than the Helos G2 and slightly better build quality. I don't use illume much and prefer the nicest glass I can get away with for the price and for my eyes.
Honestly between the Helos G2 and Midas TAC , both with the APRS6 reticle, I like each scope quite a bit and have trouble deciding which rifle I want each scope on. Tough problem to have, right??!!
I suppose I'll probably buy a Midas TAC next time because there is nothing to not like and just lacking a few features over the Helos G2 which I don't use much and also the glass suits my eyes better.