What makes a good baseplate?

A good baseplate is well designed and uses the best materials. Depending on what you looking to spend That can range from $25 to $100. If you want to drop the big bucks look at Jim Z percision baseplates. The pivot cup in precision baseplates has a Bearing in the for almost 0 resistance and normals have a rubber bushing. And all major brands have pivot cups pre-installed.