I always use Oster previously, but their products have a tendency to break where the beaters are, so after my last Oster mixer got stripped again, I decided to try another brand.  I choose Cuisinart because of the speed.  I make cakes and need to whip the icing and need a really powerful mixer.  While Cuisinart doesn't compare with Oster, I am glad that I chose this brand.  I was pleasantly surprised with the power of this model and the easy to release beaters.  As far as how long it lasts, time will tell.