How do average and poor universities in the US compare to those in China and India?

[SquidwardTentacles]

It goes without question that the top schools of most countries are pretty good, but how do we compare the average and bad universities from different countries?

I often hear (especially on this forum) that bad and average universities in the US (and the west in general) are usually still better than comparable universities in China (and India).

So my question is: Is this true? And if so, what makes that education better?

I appreciate any insight anyone has, especially if you have first hand experience.

Also, this question is mostly regarding STEM subjects.

 

[guigabyte]

I believe an education at a university in the US is generally more marketable around the world. To sum it up in one word: reputation.