get the DIP version that works off 0.1uf caps, with a little work on your pcb layout, you can fit most of the caps under the chip itself, a great space saver for layouts.
The maixim ones are used for various apps, power consuption, size, voltage supply etc.. Some are 3v, 3.3v, 5v etc..some require no caps at all, and I believe some are even 'line powered'. The ST versions are identical, and a hell of a lot cheaper. Even Analog Devices do some..down to 2.8V.
I have quite a few laying around that I've tacked on to previous orders...most are the 'ST232CN'. DIL 16..100nF caps, works a treat. Dual channel (like almost all of them) for either two UARTS, or one with handshaking lines. (DTR, CTS...sometimes used for reset on PIC's for bootloading).
Not quite 'perfect' if you're going to have a 20 metre serial cable, but I haven't had problems with it so far, plus it works down to 2v...very handy for those 12F series PICs...you don't have to worry about supply voltage really. Again, not as true to the RS232 spec as those **232 IC's, but nevertheless, its a level shifter.
Futurlec sells the MAX232CPE for only $1.50. Shipping cost is based on the cost of the ordered components but tends to take a little while using standard shipping.
at that price, yes, unless the maxim version (max232cpe) does something fancy that you need specifically. if you want a premium level shifter, consider the max3232 which is a low voltage version, so you can interface with 3v projects.
Well, you can build a MAX232-based serial interface on veroboard and provide connections to +5 V, GND, TX and RX, so that you can use the little board with any circuit that requires RS-232 level shifting.
The MAX232N is the fine too. I've used the MAX232EPE too, it has extended temperature range.
As JustDIY suggests, the MAX3232 will be useful if you'll need to use the serial interface with 3V-powered circuits. You can choose the external capacitors so that the MAX3232 will operate from 3 to 5 V. I don't remember if there is a through-hole version of this chip, mine are all SMD.