I thought I was getting black throw, but I was pleasantly surprised when I received a gray one- as it matches my living room decor. It has 5 settings, and I love the feature of it turning off after 3 hours automatically.  The directions say that it shouldn't be used for children under 12, but my 8 year old came home from playing hockey outside and cozied up right next to me and things it's the greatest thing ever.  When you excel to a level 5, it gradually gets warmer, and takes a little bit of time, but I kind of like that. It lets your body get accustomed to the heat.  Wonderful blanket that we will use a ton!