I have two other straightening irons which are fine but lack some features. One of them uses a steam pod but it is a little heavy and you have to keep in mind about topping it up with distilled water. The other is okay too but it doesn’t give me the resultsI want when I try to straighten or add waves. Finally purchased the croc iron and it does what it says. It feels light weight and the clamping mechanism works well. I don’t feel like I have to add extra pressure to close the plats. The iron is well made and so far it is wonderful. No complaints whatsoever.