I had a set of Force levers. I switched to Red for 1) variable reach 2) the choice of cable routing and 3) big chainring trim on the FD (my old Force had the trim on the small ring--stupid design).
The variable reach alone makes the cost worth it. The lever ergonomics is much better. In general, the size of the hoods is more comfortable than my DA 7800. Being able to route the shift cables out the front made for cleaner front end and more comfortable hand positions on the bar. Shifting performance is the same as Force.
The shifters came with coated Gore cables--a nice touch.