My husband and I debated whether or not to purchase this pretty pricey "toy" for a very long time. We have no regrets about our purchase. Yes, it doesn't operate at maximum mode for very long, but no vacuum cleaner will ever clean something that way. The jolt that follows carpet washing is constant. It works well, fast, simply, and readily on medium mode as well. Whoever is claiming that the handle is uncomfortable is mistaken; it is quite comfortable. Cleaning is often an investment that pays off! I suggest