Fram had a few issues a decade or more ago (apparently back when you registered, don't post much, huh
).
The Orange can got a lot of flack when it started using the fiber end caps (infamously know as "cardboard" end caps) and there were some issues with some filters bursting (never saw any proof, just lots of interwebs postings).
My biggest gripe with the Orange Can Of Delight (OCOD) was the cost. Never had a problem with the filters themselves.
The Tough Guard has even better media (synthetic/cellulose blend) as well as a silicone ADV, a 10,000 mile filter.
The Ultra is one of the best (some will say the best) filters out there. Full synthetic depth media with high filtration, wire backing on media, silicone ADV, metal end caps, 15,000 mile (soon to be 20,000 mile?) rating.
As for Wix, yes, still a solid filter. Some gripe about the filtrating ratings, but they are better than most OEM.
They make Filters for others as well.
Their lower tier are made for Walmart (Supertech), O'Reilly (Microguard) and Napa (ProSelect). A good basic filter for 5000 miles. Many use a combo ADV/bypass valve that many don't like, but they work.
Their is also the NAPA Silver (and some other NAPA one??) they make, I think it is also just a cellulose media with nitrile ADV and "normal" type bypass.
NAPA Gold and Regular Wix filters are the same as always, just good, solid filters, but are getting pricy at normal price.
You then have the Wix XP/NAPA Platinum that uses a different media (synthetic blend?) with wire backing.
