I use a 3-speed (modern Sturmey Archer XL-RD3 hub) for commuting (4 miles each way). I find it fine for that. There are a few hills on my commute, but none of them terribly steep. Depending on the wind direction and how I feel I quite often don't use 1st gear.
It's cheap and easy to change the rear sprocket to raise or lower the gear ratios overall. I fitted the largest sprocket available (22t) to give me the lowest gears possible. According to Sheldon's Gear Calculator that's 39", 52" and 69.3" (with 26" wheels and a 44t chainring). The 69.3" top gear I find isn't quite as high as I'd like, but I'm reluctant to sacrifice the low gear as I often carry loads, and have just bought a trailer too.
Of those 3 bikes I would recommend the Charge Steamer, as the drum brakes work equally well in all weathers and need almost no maintenance.