I have a cheap import pump, $52 from Amazon, and I have a Hill MK3 (BSA pump, made by Hill). I used to have a Hill MK2 pump years ago as well. Here's my thought. The import pump has worked well for the past year, I've filled my Gauntlet and Matador R3M long, many many times. I did have a problem at first with the pump but after about 300 strokes or so, the check valve was not working correctly. Took the pump apart and cleaned everything, re-lubed with silicone oil and all has been good since. The pump is not refined like the Hill but it seems to pump to 220 bar pretty easily, so I shouldn't complain.
The Hill pump is just a better pump overall though. It's quite a bit smoother to pump than the import pump, and the quality appears to be a lot nicer. Also, I had a Hill MK2 for about 5 years, used it to pump my AA 400 many times. Over 5 years of ownership of that pump, it never ever failed me. I kept the main shaft lubed with silicone oil every now and then, it never skipped a beat. The newer MK3 is just as nice and built well.
I still like the import pump, it came with a few rebuild kits, something the Hill pumps don't include. I'm glad I own both since I own 3 PCPs.
I also have a Shoebox F10 and a 18Cubic Foot CF tank, it has spoiled me beyond belief. I can fill the CF tank from 3000 to 4500 psi in under 30 mins and I'm good to go for a while.
Yes, it's worth the extra for a quality Hill pump. I bought mine used from AoA in great condition for $130, rebuild kits are cheap.