Searching for top affiliate networks: where to start?

I've recently thought about trying my hand at affiliate marketing, but I have no idea which network is best to start with. I want to find a reliable platform with good conditions so that I don't have to deal with unclear terms or low payouts. I look at different reviews and ratings, but frankly speaking, all this is more confusing than helpful. It would be interesting to hear from experienced guys, which networks are really top and why. I would like not just to find a list, but to understand what to pay attention to when choosing, and how to avoid pitfalls. Whoever is not lazy, please share your experience or links to trusted sources where you can get a good understanding of all this.