Is there really that big of a difference between brands, though? I feel like it's mostly just petty insignificant differences that don't really matter in the long run.
There sure is. In just about every metric, good quality tools are better than cheap counterparts. The only justification I could see is weekend warriors who only use it to cut 2 pieces of timber and put up a picture on the wall.
The tools are an investment and will be worth every penny in the long run. Especially if you are thinking of building or renovating your house.