Replacing my Canon TC-80N3 Remote

Programmable remote controls for Canon DSLR.

One of these remotes retails locally in Seattle at a reputable camera store for $159, while the other can be easily found online with a $31 price tag.  Can you guess which is which?

Let me get your attention even more.  Look past the name stamped on the front and these remotes are completely identical - clearly the same manufacturer.

I began my search for a replacement TC-80N3 remote for my Canon bodies due to battery corrosion (lesson learned - ALWAYS remove the battery when not in use).

I Googled the model number first, and had immediate sticker shock upon seeing the results.  I guess I had forgotten how much I paid originally.  The best price I could find for the TC-80N3 was $129 online.  But wait, some aftermarket remotes came up in the search, which I honestly hadn't considered. 

So I changed my search phrase to "remotes for canon dslr" and up popped this alternate remote by from Cowboy Studio.  From the picture it looked like the exact same remote as the Canon!  The reviews were overwhelming amongst photographers - over 70 reviewers giving it 4 to 5 stars, and no negative comments.

So I took the chance.

The remote arrived yesterday, and yes, it appears to be the EXACT same remote as the Canon.  The box has a cover photo of the remote with no name brand on it.  The manual appears to be identical to my Canon manual for the TC-80N#.  The model number for the new remote?  TC-1002.

I am leaving for the Oregon coast in the morning and will be testing this new accessory out over the coming week.  I'll let you know the results, but I can't imagine they are going to be anything but positive.