Im a beginner (started less than 2 months ago) and from my experience with the pro model, I can tell you that it is easily worth the $45 investment.
I've done 6 stair sets, landed crooked tailwhips, grinded curbs, gapped funboxes, and done quarterpipes and for the most part (besides a slightly creaky deck and loosening barends), the scooter has held up great. The wheels that come with it have been very durable so far.