Just because something costs less, doesn't automatically mean there is an inferior build quality.

They could be taking less margin and using the same factory.

They could have better distribution channels and are saving a tonne on freight.

I would wait for a side by side comparison before readily stating it is or isn't an equivalent product.

Unknown build quality & being some corporation's test-bunny are two reasons I am NOT a First-Adopter.

The only time I did that was with the Tunze Nano-Streams and I was burned. Dropped several hundred on a pre-order and then it turns out the manufacturer used the wrong type of plastic and mine never worked properly. The holder broke apart. The clip holding the stream together broke off. Got the holder eventually replaced but that first batch was never any good. I only took a chance on buying the first-run batch because it was Tunze, a supposedly superior German brand. I'm sure their later production runs of the nano-stream are great but this is why I wouldn't chance it on the new Gyre-clones.

You definitely don't want to be the guinea pig but in the age of the internet, with information flowing so fast, you don't have to be.

I remember when Bubble Magus first came about and everyone was so concerned with this Bubble King knock off...

That one turned out pretty decent.

it's not always a losing proposition.

but I'm with Anthony and would rather someone else spend their money first.