Generally speaking, more costly rods are lighter and faster. Lighter it good. However a novice caster has yet to develop the timing, appropriate application of power, and sensitivity to drive a Ferrari. A Chevy rod is better for novices. The slightly heavier weight it not noticed, and the slower rod bends regardless of technique, timing, inadvertent twitches, and casts the line. Later you might outgrow it and spend more if you can feel the difference and your first rod is tiring or 'underpreforming'. It is the same with golf clubs, tennis rackets and skiis. At the beginning you don't want something that twitches when you twitch and requires your tool to be your second skin 'cause you are not that comfortable in it yet.