Brand name radiator valves vs home depot's?

Ferguson's price for ProFlow 3/4" (hot water) radiator valves is $24, home depot sells generic ones for $13. Is the extra money for the Ferguson valve worth it?

 

Personally, I would try the cheaper valve and see how well it performs and for how long.

 

Makes sense, thanks.

Second question, I see the difference between hot water radiator valves and steam radiator valves is that the hot water valves have a bypass so that even when they're shut some water gets through to keep the radiator from freezeing... If I'm not at all worried about the radiators freezing, I think I would prefer a full shut-off steam valve, no?

 

I'm not the pro here.... just thinking out loud.

If you are dealing with three quarter copper pipe in a baseboard system. not steam, why not use ball valves ?

 

Ball valves are not good for throttling - which radiator valves are used for. A globe valve is appropriate for throttling.

 

I could, but the existing valves (that have broken handles and rusted/leaking packing) are the same right angled valves with the union.

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If I changed the piping it'd probably end up costing the same. I also think these valves are preferable for closing, it gets too hot on the second floor so I want to turn down the heat.

Edit: As for the bypass in the valve, I realized it's not a bad idea. It won't just protect the radiator from freezing but also the piping in the walls. Right now it's all exposed, but at some point I'd like to hide it.