For kitchen applications I think they are great. We use them on most our kitchens. I prefer to use a good quality faucet especially for the kitchen which gets so much use. That being said, there are specific styles/models of most higher end brands that are less expensive than the $500 number. Brizo Talo and Baliza are two styles that come to mind in that brand.

I was also concerned with the sagging or weak catching of the pull out. I was impressed with the strength of the delta magnetic catch. That's one vote for delta!

Some faucets also have weights on the hose under the sink that help to securely guide the spray back into the spout. In any case, just be sure there is enough unobstructed space under the sink. Sometimes the hose gets caught up on water filter lines, cutting boards, cleaning products, etc. which interferes with pulling it out and putting it back.

Delta and Brizo are my two favorite pull down faucet brands. They have a magnetic feature that holds the pull down in place. This will prevent the pull down from loosening over time. The Brizo Solna with the Touch feature is what I'm planning to put in my kitchen. The pull down is hidden giving a very sleek look. Check it out here. They have many styles to choose from. Price point is decent too, Touch feature is more expensive but I think worth it. http://www.brizo.com/kitchen/collection/solna.html#.UU3mEvq9LCQ

Here is the Delta Trinsic faucet. It looks like the Solna but the pull down is not hidden. These are just two that I like, there are many to choose from. http://m.deltafaucet.com/product/details/9159T-AR-DST.html

Thanks for your comments!!

Does a soapy hand slip off the sprayer when pulling it down?