I will need to do about 1100 sq ft of hardwood install in my home (5" hickory). It's going to be spread out over time so it doesn't really make sense for me to rent the nail gun. I want to pick up something relatively inexpensive but also don't want to be dealing with a piece of junk either.

I saw the NuMax SFL618 on Amazon. It seems to have a somewhat reasonable rating over all, but a number of negative comments regarding splitting tounges, etc.
https://www.amazon.com/NuMax-SFL618-Pneumatic-Flooring-Stapler/dp/B0032JTDPE/ref=sr_1_4?rps=1&ie=UTF8&qid=1515845417&sr=8-4&keywords=flooring+nailer&refinements=p_85%3A2470955011%2Cp_72%3A2661618011

At the local Lowes (or on Amazon) I can pick up the Bostitch BTFP12569. It has better reviews but fewer of them.
https://www.amazon.com/BOSTITCH-BTFP12569-2-in-1-Flooring-Tool/dp/B015UA7OYE/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1515845360&sr=8-1&keywords=BTFP12569

Is it worth putting the extra ~$125 into the Bostitch?

Or are there any other inexpensive nailers that can be recommended?

You can buy a good one and sell it when you are done with it. Another option....the Harbor Freight nailer often goes on sale for $99. For your project size that will do the trick. If you go this route they may try to sell the extended warranty.....the initial warranty for non-professional/non-rental use should be 1 year. Also, replacement parts aren't available from HF......but the nailer is a knock-off of a Campbell-Hausfeld according to the specs.
Concerning splitting board tongues....that seems an overdrive issue rather than the tool itself.

Thank you for the insight. I was talking with another father in my son's scout group and they had good experience with the HF nailer. I picked one up with a coupon. I'll be trying it in a week...fingers crossed.

If is doesn't work returning it to HF is easy. Not sure how good HF flooring nails (cleats) are. Consider Bostitch nails....Home Depot and Lowes carry them.

Did you have the $99 coupon? I just received one that is good through Jan 22.

It was 20% off...and it was advertised for $120 so I payed $96.

Even better!