Fresh ground and pre-ground black pepper is night and day. That's a example where it makes a huge difference. When it comes to things like garlic powder, onion powder, when used in a rub, it makes less difference between the fancy brands and the cheaper brands. Penzey's is noticeably better though. It is all I buy, but it's also convenient for me. The spices are fresher, and from better quality source ingredients. The prices really aren't that outrageous. They are not that much more than a good grocery store brand, and in some cases they are less. Right now they have free shipping if you spend $19.95. Otherwise I think it is $30 in spending for free shipping. It's pretty easy to spend $30 if you order a batch of rub ingredients like onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, black pepper, etc. And they give away free stuff constantly. I'm in the store every other week picking up a bottle of something free, sometimes without spending anything.