lets say; I have one. A friend gave me one several years ago when mine auto one broke. I used it until I got a new one but decided to keep it as a back up plus I have one of those really large ones for parties. You have to play w/the # of scoops just like the auto ones to get the balance right. Depending on the brand it could be hotter but since it stays on it can burn quickly as well. Just try it to see if you like it or not.