My S was accepted to RPI and SB. Personal decision, but SB just does not offer the same college experience.
Academically competitive for a SUNY, but not as much as RPI. RPI will cost more for us and if I could not afford,
he might have attended SUNY (SB or Buffalo where he got a scholarship). Whether one can afford is personal,
whether the college experience is important, is personal. Both will prepare you for work and grad school.
Personally I think kids likely to go to grad school should go for a low cost option and focus on grades.
Those less like to go to grad school, should go to best undergrad they can afford and be accepted, to maximize
employment opportunities (which RPI would no doubt offer more than SB in that regard).
Best of luck, both are very very good options.