The salesperson isn't there to push the cheaper model. BUT the router firewalls are SIMPLE affairs that simply drop incoming unsolicited packets. That cures almost all the old worm issues and attacks... So cheap is good for that. A new twist is to provide protecting inside the LAN. A compromized machine could attack other units in the home and a newer router may offer support for that.
Downside? Many have no clue what a firewall does, so they can't discuss why and how they want their firewall to do for them. YOU are the firewall designer. There is no standard for "firewall".
Bob
Using Win xp home, Mozilla 1.7.2, AVG and Kerio firewall, Ad-Aware and SpyBot.
Want additional firewall security given by router.
Single computer, not on any network, just internet usage, ,
Went to buy a wired router that was on sale with rebate. Final cost $29.
Salesman said that it would be a LOT SAFER if I bought one that cost $89.
Is it really necessary to spend a lot more money to get decent firewall protection?
Thanks
Ben

Chowhound
Comic Vine
GameFAQs
GameSpot
Giant Bomb
TechRepublic