I'm not brand loyal, but the last time I shopped, I put a $40 budget on a new iron. Having bought $4 Sunbeam at Goodwill that lasted 4 years, I was fine with another thrift store iron, if the soleplate was good, no cracks, good wire, not too heavy or too light (I'm deathly afraid of burns). I've had $20 ones last a couple years. Never wanted a Rowenta or Oliso enough to risk the money (besides, the Rowenta reviews soured me). We use the $40 B&D I bought for ironing clothes, and I use the older B&D for quilting. I like quick heat-up, auto shut-off, long cord, stainless sole plate and transparent water reservoir.