When purchasing recepticals and switches what price range should I be looking at. I have seen 10 packs at home depot for about $5. Im sure they are not the best choice only being about .50 a piece. I am using them for residential.

They are all UL approved. I seldom remember one going bad, and even if it did, it isn't much of a job to replace one. For ordinary use, they should be OK.

At Menards they have them for $0.35 a piece. You can get more expensive ones with features, higher ratings, different designs.. . But these basic cheap ones are standard and I've never had a problem either.

Just do not use the push in the back terminals, on these or any receptacle. Wrap the wire around the screw terminal and you will have no problems.

If the cheap thing does croak, it is easier to get the screws lose than the push ins, or I don't know the trick to it.

For switches, the cheap ones are fine. Although if there is a switch that gets used a lot. Spend a little more as the more expensive ones tend to be better constructed.

For receptacles, the cheap ones are fine for outlets that you don't use a lot. But for ones in the kitchen, kids bedrooms, home office, etc. I like to use the more expensive "spec" grade receptacles. They are designed to hold the plug better after repeated usage.

And as TKRussel said. Don't use the plug in (back stab) connections. Although, you can use the back wired ones that are held tight when you tighten the side screw. Menards sells a brand that has them. I think the brand is Pass and Seymour.