thanks everyone for the input.
I think from what I'm reading here and elsewhere, that the main gripe is the plastic adapter at the sink, which is an issue with either product... and easily replaced with a metal fitting from the hardware store. So this is a non issue really.
The main benefitial differences I've come across are that the aqueon has both a thicker tube and a ball valve above the siphon connection. At the same price per foot, I think I'm going to try the aqueon.