The rapid boil feature does boil water quickly.  I baked a cake using two racks and convention and they came out great.  I would have given 5 stars but the volume on the timer, even when set to high, is not loud enough to hear unless you are right by it.  I have to use the microwave timer.  Also I have standard height counters and the stove is a slide in but it is almost two inches higher than the counters.