If you buy on E-Bay, or overseas, mail-order, you can often get super deals on chains. The HG-73 (9s) is usually around $10 each.

I've used Bell chains in the past. Then when I built my cargo bike, my chain broke twice in the first 2 days of riding, and that was the last I used those. Perhaps it was a fluke, or just a bad chain.

My last order of HG73 chains, a half dozen IG-51 chains were substituted, and didn't notice it until it was too late to return They look like nice chains, but unfortunately most of my bikes are 9s or better. I'll use them, but over a few years.

As far as cost...
Say you have a $10 and a $20 chain. If more expensive chain lasts twice as long, then it will be worth it. If you only have a 10%gain in lifespan, then the cheap chain might be the better bargain.