I've used Crane humidifiers since my kids were small and have always liked them.  My son has bad allergies and congestion so I put this humidifier in his room.  Since I know we have hard water I use distilled only and it works like a charm (using distilled water prevents the gray mist and dust).  The upgraded features are fantastic.  This model has an aroma tray so you can safely add essential oils without clogging the humidifier.  It runs really quietly but my kids like the sound machine option along with the lights.  I hear a lot less coughing and sneezing from my son when we use the humidifier regularly.   I appreciate the 1 gallon tank size as we don't have to constantly refill it. It is easy to clean and use.  I was given a Cool Mist Humidifier with sound machine to test for my honest opinion.