My recommendation is simple. Do not buy yet. Go to an indoor range with a good rental counter.
Rent the lane, buy their ammo and targets, and ask if they have a rental package that lets you swap guns. Some places call it a buffet package or unlimited rental package. That is the one you want.
For this test, stay with 9mm only. You are trying to compare guns, not calibers. Keep the ammo consistent so your hands and the target can tell you which pistol works best.
Start with major brand carry guns only. Load and shoot 5 rounds through each gun on your list. When you get through the list, go back and shoot the 2 that felt best and produced the best groups. At that point, the answer should start becoming pretty obvious.
My short list, in no particular order: Glock 43X, Sig P365XL, S&W Shield Plus, and Springfield Hellcat.
You should compile your list ahead of time. Gather recommendations from your favorite online sources, gun stores, friends, and people you trust. The list should be at least 6 to 8 guns. Any more than that and you are probably going to get lost in the process.
Pay attention to what your hands tell you and what the target shows you. Failure to pay attention to those 2 clues will cost you money later. The gun that feels good at the counter is not always the gun you shoot best.
The interwebs can help build the list, but your hands and your target should make the final decision, not your wallet and not strangers online.
Buy quality once instead of paying the stupid tax later.
Discipline with a side of attitude.