Hmm, interesting discussion. I use the omni because it is light and fast to take on and off. I tried an aluminum Maillon first and got a piece of sand in the threads which made it impossible to turn (this was putting it on after a good cleaning). I eventually had to cut it off with a hacksaw. I really like the Omni although I fully expect to replace it more often than a steel maillon. For me it is worth the money.
James