I've learned a few things in this thread and look forward to getting a reliable charger for significantly less than $30.
The interesting debate that emerged contains valid points on both sides (as is often the case). The multi-dimensional nature of reality is best understood by considering multiple viewpoints.
We can find examples where paying more brings a corresponding increase in quality/features and examples where a premium is paid for name-recognition and other forms of hype. Likewise, good quality/features can sometimes be found at bargain prices, but the possibility of shoddy products increases among lesser known brands and at a lower price point where consumers understandably tend to spend less time on research. As always there are exceptions so it's a game of probability.
Basically, the seller is armed with marketing and reputation while the smart buyer is armed with research appropriate to the potential cost and time at stake. "Let the buyer beware."
Now if I can only figure out how I ended up writing such a long-winded post.
