I couldn't get more than 3 parts per million on my inexpensive model. This is pretty weak. Any more and it turned yellow showing that clumping and large particles were there. The smaller particles are apparently more effective. Personally I get so much use out of my silvergen, that the $199 was extremely well worth it. The silver is stronger, finer and the silvergen mixes the silver to avoid clumping and turns off the machine when it reaches the desired parts per million.
However that being said, in my opinion if the less expensive one is what you can afford to spring for, it's still worthwhile. I would say keep the silver clear, and drink more of it. Get a ppm tester if you can so you have an idea of what you are getting.