I paid $55.00 for my flip key 18 months ago and I have not had a problem with it at all except having to replace the battery.
As it is the only key I normally carry with me when I am out or away working, I find it more comfortable to carry in my pocket then having a separate key and remote.
But like all things it is a personal preference only.

Hopefully someone can give some advice on my situation
Just recently got the missus a 2004 BA futura, the car came with only 1 original key and remote, and another key WITHOUT a transponder. I need to get another key and remote for it, and I would like to go with one of the flip style keys.

Is this a viable option?
http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/Ford-Remote- ... 3386effae6

... then go to a locksmith to get it cut and programmed as it says in the add?

Only asking as reading the below thread scared me a little
fordmods-technical-documents-diy-f38/how-to-program-a-ba-or-bf-key-remote-t67420.html

Any input would be great!

It's a 3 step process.
*Program the remote
*get a locksmith to cut the key
*Program the key.

The third step can be done yourself If you have 2 keys (which I do in my case). I went to take one of these keys (for my sister's car) to a local locksmith. She only has 1 working key for her car. They were willing to cut the key but <insert s**t reason> they told me that their tool can only clone their keys. When I'm not lazy, I'll take her car to Ford.