It works, and it works well. The sealing element is thick and clean. High duty cycle, user serviceable parts. When I get home from the grocery store, first thing I do is vacuum seal all my fresh meat and veggies in single serving bags. It's not too loud, but it's definitely not quiet. Shockingly heavy, and takes up a good deal of counter space; you're not going to want to move this once you find a home for it, so take that into consideration.
Edward Huerstel 
