Are they actually TF KOs or just cheap transforming robot toys that are probably from China?

Technically a KO would have to be a toy that is an imitation of a licensed toy like a Transformer. There are plenty of generic transforming robot toy lines which aren't counterfeit Transformers, like RoadBots. From what I've heard from some people who've bought some RoadBots, they are as cheap and nasty as they look... kinda like No Frills Alternators... I have no intention of every buying one ever, but I don't consider them to be KOs.

My favourite generic transforming robot toy is Busbot - a cheap toy which transforms from a bus (coach) into a robot with a gold chrome Gundam head and Gundam RX-78 rifle and a yellow sword! I don't think having the Gundam head and gun alone qualifies it as a Gundam KO (it is definitely more than 10% different from any Gundam toy!) - but I like it just because it's so unique to see a 'Transformer' bus! I also found this other transforming robot whose alt mode is an American-style school bus... the robot mode is awful... I gave it to dirge. But yeah, it's definitely unique.

Now if only HasTak would give us a real proper busformer!