With any ceramic element filter, you will at some point have to replace the element (depending on how often it gets used will determine how often). This is really the important part of the filter, regardless of the initial cost of the package. How easily it pumps and cleans (particularly the filter which can get clogged) would be more important to me.
fwiw, my father has one of the "cheaper" MSR ceramic filters he bought ~12 years ago. Still on the original element (not heavily used over those 12 years mind you, week-long trips here and there; it's nearing time for a new filter) and it still pumps fine. It isn't all that heavy either (sub-1 pound). It is similar to this one:
http://www.ems.com/product/index.jsp?productId=3664338&lmdn=Brand&cp=3677338.11359842.10754173
Personally, while I'm all for saving weight and space, I wouldn't spend $300 on a filter. I actually don't own a filter myself, but use Aqua Mira drops. Packs smaller and lighter than any filter on the market

(The drops have their drawbacks though, and someday I'll likely invest in a filter).
_________________NH 4K x6 || NH W4K || NE4K || NEHH || WNE4K 64/67 || 52WAV 19/52
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