I actually do get your point. Let me paraphrase it to ensure we're on the same p...

I actually do get your point. Let me paraphrase it to ensure we're on the same page:

  - you have seen organizations pay $20k for SQL Server
  - 50 boxes like that will cost a lot of money.
  - SQL Server is actually worse than (at least one of) the free options

Here's my experience:

  - I've actually purchased SQL server, bundled with the OS and all other necessary software for $2k.
  - 50 boxes like that won't cost significantly more than they would with free software, if you consider the dominant cost of  operating it, which is hosting fees.
  - SQL Server is actually really good.

So yeah, I imagine that people overpay for SQL Server all the time, and they certainly pay a ton for Oracle. They don't need to though. Microsoft is really good at making sure that businesses use their software, and they'll find a way to price it in a way you can afford.