I absolutely LOVE this umbrella! It was super easy to set up (with help, as its quite heavy!). I do recommend putting the solar panel on first, plugging it in and then finish setting up the umbrella. A weighted counter weight is definitely needed (NOT just recommended). Super easy to operate with the crank and the light switch is in a very easy to reach location. My ONLY complaint: I ordered blue, but somehow the order was changed to light brown, when it arrived it is almost bright white (it even shows "white" on the box). I love the way the umbrella is made so much, I did order a second one, in blue, and again, received white.