Good stain for T1-11 siding?

I've built a shed with T1-11 siding, and now I want to stain it ... and I've never used exterior stain before and am kind of confused by how different the products are.  Shed has direct sun about half of the day; climate here is mild, no winter snow, no furious summer heat.  I'd like the wood to somewhat match my weathered redwood fence (pretty dark gray).  Assuming semi-trans, but could do solid as well.  Local stores carry Flood, Preserva Wood, Cabot, Olympic, Ready Seal, Penofin. What's a good choice for me?  Should I be particularly looking for water based, oil, parafin?

Thanks,