hi keith, there are loads of varients of this type of lighting currently on the market. since led has become more popular the market has flooded with every lighting company bringing out there own variation, some good some bad. led technology is still in its infancy and is advancing all the time, so no matter what product you go for, there will be a better more energy efficient version on the way.
when ppl say ''the exspensive stuff'' its usally exspensive for a reason. some are ip rated and others are colour changing, with the abillity to have sequences ect ect. the better brands will have a driver, a controler and the ability to extend if needed.