PICkit3 or PICKIT 3 Compatible ? need help...before buying..

[asking]

I have searched ebay i found there are 2 types of pickit3 one is original microchip PICKIT3 and other is PICKIT 3 Compatible both have same features...this PICKIT 3 is 60% cheaper and its copy or clone of pickit3 and also works...with MPLAB IDE.... so can anyone suggest me anyone has idea ? is it ok to go with clone... ? because i m using universal programmer and it programs any ic...with no problems... but this is my first ICSP device...so need help..


Here's link

https://www.fasttech.com/products/1006/10000018/1002100-pickit-3-compatible-programmerdebugger

 

[nagkiller]

I have a pickit 3 original in my house and a pickit 2 clone (acquired after) for use at work.
Some pics programmed with the pickit 2 clone, do not work anymore (just going to waste).
The same pics programmed in the pickit 3 can be programmed anytime. If its before programmed.
This happens with pics that need to be fed by pickit 2 clone.
The Pickit 3 works perfectly. Although for debugg, they need some accessories for older pics.

 

[wp100]

Hi,

Sure Electronics, who I have bought stuff from, also do a PK3 clone and also a Microchip Pk3 (?).
https://www.ebay.com/sch/m.html?_odkw=&_osacat=0&_ssn=sureelectronics&_trksid=p2046732.m570.l1313&_nkw=pickit&_sacat=0&_from=R40

If you buy a Microchip one from a main dealer in your country they normally replace them very quicky if a fault develops.
With a clone it usually means a long wait to return it to China.

The choice is down to you really - though as you say you have a good universal programmer, if you get a clone all is not lost if it stops working.