PSX Laser replacement. Best options in 2014

Hello Folks,
I have a new interest in older PSX systems. Primary 1000 & 1001 versions.
I understand that this topic has been discussed many many times. But most of the information is 10yrs old and full of dead links.


From my research 1000 & 1001 models suffered from poor laser assembly design.

It seems that the PSone,900x,550x consoles are the best lasers for swapping in older units.

BUt what about the NEw laser on eBay. I was surprised by the abundance and $9 pricetag.
Are these better or equal to a used PSone laser from 2002?

 

The new laser on eBay is likely manufactured by a gaming part company and therefore generic. However, in my experience these lasers work as well as original ones (this goes for any console)

 

Right, I wonder if the generic lasers are decent? My current options are 1. Buy a PSone and gamble on the lasers usage or 2. Buy a knock-off laser.

 

I have bought a couple knock offs and they work ok. You should be able to get a refund if it doesn't work. Either option should work.