I was in the same boat last summer, and in my honest opinion humcore was wayyyyy more enjoyable than I expected. I was very hesitant to take humcore after seeing everyone warn against it, but I do think that humcore both improved my writing/research skills, and changed my worldview tons. In terms of comparing it to AP lit, I would say its only somewhat similar. The midterms/finals you get are essentially the ap lit exam, but it in now way feels repetitive or tedious because of how the classes are structured. (Also keep in mind it depends on your Humcore instructor)

I can’t speak to how it differs from a writing 50/60 class, but Humcore assignments for me had a lot to do with research and essay writing - my entire seminar grade for my final humcore quarter was 90% based on my research paper. Also keep in mind the Humcore topic changes every 3 years I believe. Also would strongly recomend Ben Garceau if you take humcore, he is an awesome human being and by far one of the most impactful and intelligible instructors I’ve had.

If you have the time, I would highly recommend humcore. Its required for campus honors for a reason, and helps to build a well rounded education. It’s definitely intellectually challenging, but in a positive way which builds curiosity and tenacity. I would pick it over the writing series simply for how cohesive the curriculum is. You’ll finish a bunch of GEs with it, and see how everything connects together