APC or cheap shifters are just cut-down versions of your stock shifter, meaning literally just a shorter shifter. More expensive ones, like Neuspeed and Skunk2 have one or two (dual) bends or 'pivot points' that make shifting much easier. I just bought the B&M short shifter for 65 dollars which included some Urethane bushings, and I don't believe it has a bend in it. But it's not a bad deal. I'd say if you have the money get a Skunk2, from what I've heard you won't be disappointed.