I was also referring to clips and strap! I used the photo to show what id rather have than spending the extra money on a clipless setup. For me and a handful of friends we have (clips and straps) Because they are cheaper and give us more options with shoes!
Sorry for the misunderstanding, I would rather have a basic set of pedals and straps (functional/not crap) such as the ones I pictured above! (These are not what I currently own). I have a set of Mid range wellgo pedal/strap combo. They allow me to wear many different types of shoes, so I dont have to throw nasty kitchen shoes in my bag after work or rain boots. Id rather spend less on pedals! And get a better saddle. IT IS not for looks! Its what I can afford right now. And like I said earlier if I could afford clipless i would jump on them. But seeing that there is a ~$100 starting point I cannot justify them right now.

And yes your right the average daily commuter prob is not using the clip/strap setup to its full potential.