MACR used to get promoted on time, hence the derisory comments. Some years ago this stopped, and there are still a few left in who got promoted on time, but not many.
During the transition, those on the old scheme got paid (as though they were promoted) but did/do not wear the rank. There are still a few of these about as well.
Now, all new MACR are promoted and paid on merit. Their rank is the absolutley the highest available in the non-commissioned ranks (the MACR rather than WO is a trade difference and not competence) .........and earned.
So the answer is YES, they are the same as ANY WO.
P.S. I am not NCA nor commissioned NCA. I just acknowledge professionalism when I see it.