The equity (%) without the actual cash value of the options is basically a vanity number - it does not mean much and is not comparable between the companies.
Perhaps less relevant as the fundraising proceeds and the valuation approaches the targeted IPO price. But early on, the valuation will probably change drastically from Seed to C and securing an appropriate % is a good strategy. Many people don't know what that is -- for instance I accepted my first seed stage equity offer of 0.5% (negotiated up from 0.25%) but I now know that I was slightly lowballed. But you still make a good point. 1% from two 23yo first-time foundres with little experience, vs 0.5% from established founders with prior exits, solid networks, and reputable VC's presumably greatly increases your odds of a high valuation exit, so perhaps even seed / A stage its worth weighing that more than the percent.