Cast or forged brass?

If it looks okay, then it is fine however it is made. In general, forged is much better. It avoids air pockets and gives a better surface for polishing. However, it is also much more expensive. For most applications that extra expense cannot be justified.

Which one looks nicer to you, will last longer, and is the leser cost. You need to balance cost, quality, and reliability.

Both should work as well if properly sized and of good quality. Cast is slightly more prone to cracking under stress, but if made well it should not under normal circumstances.

Forged should be more durable. It should also be more expensive, so if it isn't, grab it.

You will usualy not put enough stress on it to realise a difference unless it is commercial use for heavy doors etc . I dought most hardware is true forge as strength is not usualy an issue, they usualy break if mounted poorly or come loose or really abused. I would be most concerned with finish quality that is where you will find wear

Forged should be more durable. It should also be more expensive, so if it isn't, grab it.