In the past, I was a complete router bit snob. I would only purchase bits made from a few high-end manufacturers & if possible bit with a 1 shank. Then I was gifted a trim router that only used 1/4" bits.
The trim router sat unused for about a month until I needed to put an 1/8" round over on a lot of parts. The trim router seemed a better option than the PC 690 so I ordered an 1/8" round over with a 1/4" shank from one of the high-end companies.
Somewhere down the line I need a bit for a very specific job. When I searched online I saw that instead of paying $25-$35 for a bit that I might only use on a single project I could pay $8-$10 for the bit … and have it delivered to my door for free in two days. I paid the $10 and the bit more than met my expectations.
Now I look for value instead of a name when I search for bits. Many times I start with names like Yonico, Hiltex & Yakamoz to see their offerings. I read reviews to see what others say before blindly purchasing a brand. I’m obviously not the only one. Today I looked on Amazon for undersized straight bits for plywood. Whiteside has a three bit set for $52.11 that 65 people gave a 4.5 star review. Yonico has a three bit set that 199 people gave a 4.5 start review. YMMV.