a very big price difference between the branded product and the `` generic '' . the biggest difference between the original and the generic be in the bag 's seal mechanism where it mate to the machine dust port . the generic bag use a cardboard retain ring and closure device , and the real thing from Miele be plastic . from a practical standpoint , I will purchase the generic again as there be good value in the generic replacement vesion once you get past the lack of the plastic retain ring ... they both work the same and the bag quality seem just fine . nothing to complain about . a big difference in cost ... this be good !