I use them as part of making my living on a daily basis. IMO, MyronL makes the best on the market today. At least for the US Market. My daily use meter runs about $900.00. I replace the pH bulb in it at least once per year and that runs about $200.
However, they have a new pH pen that I am dying to try. Based on what I hear from some sources I trust, I am optimistic there is finally something good and "affordable" on the market. I believe these are running about 150-175 USD.
Bottom line here is that good pH meters are expensive. Period. You also need good cal solutions on hand at a all times. Just FYI. A meter without them is soon not trustworthy.