I mostly use glue sticks when I am scrap booking. I love that it is acid free. While not unique to Staples I like the purple glue that dries clear so I can see where the glue has already been applied.
I use this item to seal envelopes for mailing. It is so much less messy than the regular envelope sealing glue and it holds just as well. It takes just a few seconds longer to dry but that is insignificant when you are looking at the price difference. The savings more than make up for it. I say buy it and try it for less than $2.00. If you aren't happy with it how much are you out? I think you will be very pleased though.