Product review (5 stars): Better performing filter than the cheaper knock offs
Cheaper models are available but be warned, "Tested to" a NSF standard doesn't mean it meets that standard (like me testing my strength to Arnold Schwarzenegger he's much, much stronger)
Most of the cheaper filters MAY meet NSF Standard 42 which is only aesthetics (Chlorine/odor/taste).  More expensive filters like this one also meet NSF standard 53 which includes contaminants that have adverse health effects.