We've been using a different "slow cooker" for several years ("crock pot"). Although the controls indicated three temperatures, it really had only one, TOO HOT! And it had no time setting, so if you were running late it would just keep over-cooking your dish.  After researching other brands, we were glad to find a review of slow cookers in Cooks Illustrated, who selected this Kitchenaid model as their top pick. We couldn't agree more. Our first batch of carnitas was perfect!  The Kitchenaid temperature settings are accurate and the timer allows accurate timed cooking before switching to a stay warm setting.  We'll be using this new Kitchenaid often (our old one just sat on a shelf)!