Yep and that's why I said that....because I noticed no difference between the two pedals I have owned and used. I have not had a problem with them and their function to me doesn't justify my spending $400. Someone could say the same thing with spending $172 for the Saitek pedals, it's all up to the user and what they want to do.
I have used X45, CH, unmodded cougars, uber modded cougar sticks and the warthog is by far the best one out of them all hands down. Maybe the MFG pedals are the same way. For what I do, what I have works great, no complaints from me. The only reason I sold my CH stuff is because I had them for years and acquired a modded cougar and warthog. So I figured it was time for a change and the Saitek pedals allowed for a few better things then what CH offered. It's just like buying a car, some people might not noticed a small difference in the power and others will.
Whatever the OP decides to get I hope they work great for him.