I've used AngelList. To be honest, I've had better luck with local connections outside of the industry. My experience with it (which is biased) is that depending on the industry you want to invest in, AngelList only serves those who already have investors or angels. In my humble opinion, to get in on the ground floor your need to attend conferences, talk to young people, see what new thing their friends think are cool. Again this is dependant on the industry your in, for example-- mining companies often won't be found on angel list. Every one who creates an app though... You'll find em there.
AngelList is by far your best source of deal-flow.
The recent introduction of syndicates will increasingly force most investors investing under $100,000 per company to invest as part of syndicates (which charge a carry) on sought-after rounds but there are still many good quality companies where you can invest independently.
With or without AngelList, try and share deal-flow with other investors you like, respect and trust. Focus as much on building your network of fellow investors as entrepreneurs and makers.
Happy to talk to you more about AngelList and what I've seen and experienced there.
Also check out FundersClub and Microventures. Both have access to many of the hot deals in Silicon Valley due to their close relationships to the accelerators there, such as YC and 500S. It's a great way to get access to these deals, with investments as low as $2500.
You can also try joining a local Angel group, but in my view these types of groups will be disrupted by platforms like AngelList and FundersClub. These platforms provide an easier and faster process for both the startups and angel investors.
AngelList Syndicates are now a way to get into very hard deals as well. Top advisors will syndicate a round into great company. As an angel investor, you come in on the coattails of these advisors and you will get in on rounds that you probably could not get into otherwise.
