I have seen plenty of cases that are really that clear cut, usually centered around item quality. For example, cheap tools vs. expensive ones. The "X Factor" that makes the more expensive item not strictly better is the question of use. I.E., I don't buy Snapon wrenches because I am not a professional mechanic, but neither do I buy cheapo pot-metal tools because I use them enough that the extra money spent on quality is well worth it.