They have a larger diameter shaft (prevents them from bending on big big jumps), maybe use better quality seals and parts. I believe it's customer service and the name too.
I have never riden anything but stock and axis. I even bought my axis used. If something goes wrong with them, I call them. They hook me up like I just bought them. If I don't like how they ride, they'll revalve them for free ... I pay for the rebuild of oil and any bad seals. I had a rezzie that had a leak, they replaced it for free. What more can you ask for.
On the other hand, works seem to work very well for the rec rider. They probably would have been enough for me, but I seem to over kill everything I do
Anything will be an upgrade from stock. If funds are the stopper (we all have bills to pay) then works might be what you need.
And, rezzies can be added anytime at a rebuild. You don't have to spend the money up front. They are to keep the oil cool so the don't start to "fade" and work like crap when riding very hard. Most of us don't ride hard enough to use them anyway.