I have a set of extra wide generic and a set of wide extra long of the real ones. I used to also have a set of extra long and narrow generic that I gave to my sister because I like the wider ones best.
There is no difference between the real and generic if you buy the generic from a reputable seller. I will say, however, that i prefer the real curlformer sticks to the generic; but you can buy those separate. The generic stick comes apart too easy for my taste. I think a stick is $4 at Sally's. They may be cheaper online.