What is the Difference Between a $2K and $200 Shotgun?

This question is not asked to ruffle feathers or even attempt to say a $200 GForce shotgun can be truly comparable to a $2,000 Benelli M4. Rather, it is meant to address the questions often asked by people who are new to shotguns:

How can a shotgun cost $2,000?
What does $200 get you?
What's the difference?

About the only things these shotguns truly have in common are that they are both designed and marketed for defensive shotgun shooting and are chambered in 12 gauge. When looking at a shotgun for home defense, there are several things to factor into your decision, so let’s dig into it.