For the money, it is very good; you need to operate it according to the instructions, although they are not very informative. You have to place the bag with the smooth side up inside the two hooks it has, and for maximum suction, the nozzle (photo below) should be positioned between the smooth and textured part of the bag. Then, you place the paper for sealing the vacuum on top, close the lid, press the green button, and hold until it lights up red. Immediately press the air release valve, and you're done. To stick it without suction, you place the bag with the smooth side up and press the button, holding it for 3 seconds until it stops, and that's it. Let it sit a bit before opening it to cool down. Durability, time will tell