What are the options, and best bang for buck radio systems that include telemetry? And is it actually worth spending a bit extra for it?
Is the Specktrum DX2s the best option at $199? Are there any other alternatives?

I use the Spektrum DX3s with the Temp sensor on my Electric vehicles and it works well

RX Batt function is also handy as it helped me confirm I needed to run an external bec after a new servo install

Telemetry signal does not travel far compared to the actual radio range

Cheers

For the most part i've gotten tired of the telemetry feature except for the voltage indicator. That part is very useful. I've taken the temp sensors off my cars and couldn't be happier. Seeing the temp spike and the radio beeping at me is annoying, expecially since i know the tune on my engine is fine. The rpm sensor nearly ate up my flywheel when the screws rattled loose, even with loctite on them. So i took the rpm gauge off as i didn't trust it much anyhow. The only thing left is the voltage sensor built into the reciever, and its a nice feature to have. Great radio but telemetry for the most part imo is overrated and at times inaccurate.