As titled, what would be the benefits/drawbacks of each (running with a 11-36 cassette) on a new steel hardtail?
I'd go 38/26 tbh (that's what I've got on my hardtail).
Although with an 11-36 cassette you could get away with 40/28 if you wanted the higher top end. I've got an 11-32 on mine and it gets me up pretty much anything.
There's no real benefits or drawbacks with either, it's just different gear ratios. Do you know what you're running now?
got a 40/26 and 11x34 on my FS, which is imo enough for 99% of situations
IMHO 38/24
I hate not having a low enough gear on steep ups. Spinning out is rarely an issue and if you do you might go less fast but you won't stop and have to walk
You mileage may differ
I'm running a 42/32/24.
I'd go 40/28, good ratios IMO.