I guess there were a few unlucky ones for who it broke in the beginning. Well that can happen with any product so exchange it.
Mine works extremely well and I use it all the time - either attaching it to a bracket or using it "hands-free".
Did not compare it to any of the off-brand products.

Is Canon making these cords in China? Does anyone sees a different from the ones that are made in Japan?

Thanks
Fernando

Useful item, does what it's supposed to. Only wish the cord was longer by maybe six inches for more versatility. In any case very satisfied customer here.

This accessory is a must have for anyone using a bracket to get better results for their flash photography. I understand it's better than the previous OC-E2. However, since Canon updated it, why didn't they make the bottom plates/connectors metal on both ends. One side is metal. The other is plastic and guess what, through rigorous of constant use with my Flashframe brand bracket, the plastic part simply disintegrated. The combined weight of my 580EXII and Gary Fong's Lightsphere was to much to bear. I don't know if there are better cords but Canon says, it's an accessory and the only way to fix it, is to buy a new one or see if the retailer will take it back for replacement. Although my cord still works, I need to buy a new one immediately. So, unless Canon fixes this design flaw, expect to buy a 2nd one after you buy your first. Heck, if you can afford it, buy two up front.

This is a must have for flash control. Off brands have been tried and they do not work well, to put it mildly. The wiring is weak and prone to not working. This is one item where it is essential to get the real deal directly from Canon.