Sometimes a lower entry cost let's people with budget challenges try out a new hobby.
I know people who can justify $330 for a RTR AE SC10, but can't get to the $470 + Radio + Servo + Motor + ESC + Wheels/Tires + body cost to try a Tekno SC.
I have all three and I'd rank them this way.
Value: SC10, Slash, Tekno (edge to SC10 due to center diff vs slipper). To me Tekno quality is well worth the asking price, but it makes it nearly double the cost of the Associated.
Quality: Tekno, SC10, Slash
Parts support: Slash, SC10-Tekno...