I love how I can pour detergent into the holder & not have to think about it again.  I was afraid it would use the wrong amount or I wouldn't have easy control.  But I was wrong, it uses the right amount every time for all kinds of loads. Also you can easily switch it off.  Another thing that is great is the preset amount of time for the loads.  This is my 2nd version of this machine (we moved so I bought it again).  This version many of the loads are a bit shorter but if you want you can increase/decrease the time. However once again they nailed it on the time too. I love how well this machine works, and how much time & effort it saves me.