Evolution Tree was the foundation of the power of both Phantoms and monsters. However, the process of its appearance as well as the stages of development were different.
This was clearly seen in the case of Gray Stalkers and Plague Reaper. They were at different levels, but since Gray Stalkers were one of the weakest members of their Threat Level, they had only their fangs and claws as weapons.
Plague Reaper, in contrast, had not just unique abilities and formidable weapons but also a sharp intellect and a majestic aura, as well as an intimidating quality of his skills.
Sure, it wasn't always the presence of abilities and their variety that showed a monster's power, nor vice versa, there were exceptions and they were usually frightening.