Trance 3 is definitely worth the extra. With the multi pivot point suspension, vs the Stance single pivot point, you get a much more refined suspension. The Trance has 20mm more rear, and 30mm more front suspension, yet you lose nothing as far as flat smooth performance or climbing performance.
I have a Stance 2 that I have converted to 1x, added a wide ratio 11-40 cassette, changed the stem and bars, and added a dropper post. It is a very nice starting bike if you just don’t want to spend much, I really like it. But if I had it to do over again, I would have started on a Trance.
So if you are able to spend the extra, the Trance 3 is a no brainer. For that matter I have test ridden a lot of bikes since I got my Stance, including several levels of Trance, and I think the next step up, Trance 2 with Fox suspension, is worth the extra.