I've never had a crock-pot and always wanted one so i gifted this to myself for the holidays. For the price it is huge, I've seen slow cookers for 5-6 qts that go for about the same price. This thing is huge, even though it's just for myself and my husband I wanted to get something big enough to fit a whole chicken and make enough soup or stew for my entire family if need be and this fits the bill. I made lamb which cooked the whole day and came off tender and delicious and then also made a whole steamed chicken. This purchase will definitely pay itself off with the money i'm saving on my electricity bill and can I can have great food that needs to cook slowly. It heats up great, has off, high, low and defrost setting. I haven't used the defroster so I don't know about that, but everything else is great. It looks neat on top of the counter top, is EXTREMELY easy to clean, all u have to do is fill with soap and water then rinse and wash with a regular sponge like normal, doesn't matter if its cooked on grease or whatever, it just washes off. Outside just wipe with a damp cloth and its good to go. It's heavy and good quality. It does require some planning ahead to use but I love the low maintenance of having great food without sweating over a stove. Price is great for the size and quality!