I had a full sized Rowenta that smoked (literally) after a few years so I bought a B&D and it quilt working after 3 months. Bought the Panasonic with the titanium bottom (it is easier to clean the plate when I use starch) and it has worked well. I am going to have to go to a lighter iron and am looking at the Panasonic cordless. I don't use water anymore. I also have a portable Rowenta that has never had water and works ok, but for a lot of heavy duty pressing it is too light.