I need to choose which one of these to put in ground. Which would you choose and why?  I am in Zone 8a
Thanks.

I'm leaning towards MBVS.

Hardy Chicago is a proven variety in your zone. Productive and fast growing. Mbvs for me doesn't grow nearly as well. I am in Louisiana

Ahh. My baby MBVS is doing well in its pot so maybe that is where it should stay.  What issues are you having with yours?

I have both trees in the ground, seems MBVS grows a little better here in zone 7b..Good luck, which either one you choose! Can't go wrong! : )

They're both good Mt Etna type figs. From my own experience in NH, I find  Hardy Chicago a much stronger grower than Marseilles Black.
Taste wise I think they are similar, sometimes I think either one or the other is the better. They ripen about the same time for me but over all productivity for me would be HC. If I had to pick one it would be HC.

Hardy Chicago for overall quality in taste. HC is not as productive or early like MBVS.

My Marseilles black for me is much slower in growth is the only issue i have.

I would put your favorite one in the ground. I had 5 in the ground,they all gained girth and fruit. Seemed like they were more tolerant of the sun.