I have never used one before but the guys at work told me how one is suppose to work, so I plugged it in, put air to it and started hacking on some scrap metal hanging around. It was awesome. Not sure how it would compare to the other big name brands but i was cutting 1/4" plate fairly easily. Don't know how well it would work on thicker material, but for a home warrior, I imagine that it will serve it purpose well.Came with 30A 220VAC twist-lock plug on it which was very good for me since my welder outlet is 30A twist-lock also.The torch has a normal integrated push button to start air/cutting, not some cable-tied flapper switch like some of the other models listed.