On weight location. Last night we changed cleat hardware from steel to Ti. That saved 17g/pair at the shoe. My son cannot feel that. But he can feel the 100g difference in mass at the pedals. If the cyclist is the type to stand, move the bike from side to side, accelerate then this little stuff all adds up. If they sit and steady state ride - then I doubt they would feel it, but generally the higher end stuff is better made.
The picture on the left besides being lighter they are better finished.