I think when we start to climb above a $200 price point ( and even over $1k ), and start talking about these types of sticks, you get into the Ferrari/Lambo arguments. Some are rabid Team Red, some aren't, others prefer Porsche, or heaven forbid a Corvette. Truth be actually known, they are all great vehicles. And given the choice between a Kia and a 2020 Corvette, even a die hard "team red" player will choose the 'Vette. Same for these control devices. There might be a few "must have" options for certain CMDRs such as twist-yaw, separate throttle, or analog mini-sticks, but it's like Auto vs Manual vs Paddle shifted computer assist for cars.
I love my Gladiator, and will order another one so my son can fly with me on his new ( first ) PC. It's the same one I use, so he'll be pretty happy. I don't see the point in buying a T16k that I know will fail. And I seriously lust after a Virpil throttle. How to enjoy it, and explain a $450 new toy properly to the wife, is something I am still pondering.
As far as a "can take a beating" and "never fail" joystick, I posted in another thread, I still have my CH Flightstick 2 button, two axis, throttle wheel joystick from the early '90s. Still works, or would, if I could find a MIDI/Game port to plug it into. Now that joystick took YEARS ( 10 ? ) of serious abuse. But going back to the car analogy, it would be equivalent to a mid 60's chevy wagon with a straight six and a two speed power glide..