So what do you think is better; engineered hardwood or hard wood? What are the key differences

Depends on the application.

depends on the application.

It's going in a basement, so engineered is probably the way to go, just wondering about the pros and cons about both types.

It's going in a basement, so engineered is probably the way to go, just wondering about the pros and cons about both types.

In a basement on a slab the engineered is the way to go because that's is installed floating, vapor barrier and all... the old style has to be nailed down... just for starters... You really don't need a pro and con list... because the engineered flooring is really your only practicle option if you want wood in a basement. Installation methods alone would give you every reason you need to know.

Upstairs over wood subflooring... I would make the argument for the old style hardwood. Because its longer lasting and can be refinished. And as good as the engineered stuff can look... it really doesn't beat the real thing. But that's just one mans opinion.

If there is any dampness at all, not even engineered - laminate, or fake wood grain, which is pretty good looking these days. (Engineered is laminated of course but this is the terminology used).
Did you do a dampness test with a square of plastic for 2 days?
If it is at all damp, I would use a stained concrete sealer.
Concrete is rarely nice and smooth and level, and there is nothing more gross than removing some flooring in a basement and seeing 70 billion bugs scatter. They love it under there.

Well it's a raised basement, grading is built up 4 feet on some sides one side is a walk out. No dampness. I know engineered is the best option for what I want. Some one was asking my the main differences of the two so I thought Id ask.

Lay out about a 3 or 4 foot square piece of plastic on the concrete... put boards or something on it a for a few days... then lift it up and see if its wet...

If it is... you don't want to use that as you will have problems.

Main differences? Look a 2X4 and a piece of plywood. That is the most basic and common difference. There are many subtle differences between different manufacturers products in the details.

Seriously... some have a printed photo of wood under the finish (seriously a picture)... some actually have a real wood veneer under the finish.

"No dampness" don't be sio sure until you try the test smoothy has given you. I would not put down boards but would tap with duct tape on all four sides. Nearly every concrete slab on grade gives dampness so your basement will likely too. I am currently putting down a vinyl plank tile that looks like engineered wood that is 100% water proof, much better choice for a basement.