Besides weight, what does a more expensive paddle get you? On the fence on if I should spend $100+ on a paddle or just buy another $40-$50 range paddle. Buddy has a nice lightweight paddle but just didn't feel it was any better than an ole cheap one besides the lightness it had

The ease of paddling long distances is a very noticeable trait of a untra light weight paddle. Also most of your more expensive paddles are going to come with some kind of warrantee. The different shapes and lengths available in most kayak stores can be confusing so make sure to ask for help if you need it.

one thing to me is cheap paddles is the wobble they get on the joint i hate that, i have had a werner for a while locks tight and never wobbles after a years of use.

Blade shape, surface area of the blade, and weight can all factor in. I have a $120 Bending Branches low angle paddle, a $180 high angle Bending Branches paddle, and a $190 high angle Aqua-Bound paddle that has a larger blade surface area than the other two, and is the lightest. I can feel the difference in thrust with the AquaBound paddle but was perfectly happy with the BB high angle paddle regarding weight.

It all depends on what your price point is. For my lake and creek fishing and river trips, I don't see needing a $400 paddle and could put that money to other kayak needs.

also the paddle is made of better material it is stiffer so you paddle more efficiently. also you can trim the angle of the paddle so you cut through the wind when you raise it up. if its flat in the air when you paddle you are pushing against the air if its trimmed at an angle it slices through the air

Being a Texan I learned when I was young that "Good Boots Ain't Cheap and Cheap Boots Ain't Good!" The same goes for Paddles.

"Good Paddles Ain't Cheap and Cheap Paddles Ain't Good!"

If you don't plan on fishing far from where you put in then a cheap paddle will get you by.
Longer paddling for extended periods of paddling your arms will start to feel it.
I've got a $100 bending branches paddle and I could tell the difference right away from the cheaper one I had.
As mentioned, it's lighter and better constructed.
I don't paddle more than about 3 miles and most of the time it's about half that distance, but I really like the paddle and have had it for 3 years without any issues.