Ceramic brake pads are better than OEM brake pads as they are softer and more consistent and easier on the brake rotors.
OEM semi metallic brake pads on the other hand are more rigid and vary significantly, depending on the metal that is used to make them.
Cheap brake pads do wear out faster than higher quality more expensive brake pads.
However it can also depend on how much you use your brakes to how fast your brake pads will wear out.
I've had some brands of cheap brake pads wear out faster than other cheaper brands of brake pads.
Then I've had some higher quality more expensive brake pads last longer than the cheaper brake pads.
It can depend on the quality of the brake pads.
If you're doing your brakes yourself and can't afford the higher quality brake pads then it's okay to use the cheaper brake pads as they last a good amount of time.
Brake pads generally last between 30,000 and 70,000 miles, but some can last as long as 100,000 miles.
There are many factors that account for this wide range.
First, brake pads come in a variety of types and compositions and are attached to even more varying brake systems and rotors.
If the brake pads look thin, less than 1/4", it might be time to get them replaced.
On some brake pads, you might see a wear indicator slot down the center of the pad.
If the slot is gone or just barely visible, it's time for new brake pads.