Does anyone really think buying a more expensive yoyo will make them a better player? You always see this presumption, but I doubt many people are that simple-minded.
I don’t buy expensive yoyos because I think I’ll magically be able to hit more tricks. The reason I pay so much is because I want the yoyo. Either I like the design, the rarity, or something else about it that makes it worth whatever price to me.
…but, I also wouldn’t go so far as to say material or construction has absolutely no effect on play. That is just as far to the other extreme, for me, and does not jive with my personal experience.