This is a nice lamp that adds some visual interest to my bedroom.  I do not have overhead lighting in that room so I got it for the outlet that is connected to the light switch.  I don't frequently use the knob to switch between 1, 2, or 3 of the shades lit up, but it's a nice feature to have.  I am not sure what the deal was with people who said it was top heavy.  Maybe they have some variations in manufacturing, because mine is fine.  Be mindful about how you put it together so that the curve of the middle post arcs straight across the base from where the pole attaches to the base, not off to one side.  That balancing action with the heavy base is what makes it stable.