Hi John,
That is usually the case with Chinese products - oftentimes the quality is inferior to products made in the US or other western countries.
At least you're open to paying a higher price for better quality :) Most require very low prices yet expect top grade quality - which is hardly possible.
For example a few of the branded sports watches that we buy for at least a hundred dollars are being made in China for like 1/8 of the selling price. I use to work there so I have witnessed this first hand.
But there are many great suppliers there in China you just have to do more research to find them. I know there are many negative comments/reviews about DHGate but they have a number of really good manufacturers or suppliers in there too. Just be extra keen and ask all the questions you can think of - do your research, like some of our members who have found their supplier/s there.
All the best! :)