Small, easy to program, then forget about it. I've used the old style dial looking types with the slide switches in the past with no luck at all. I don't know what I was doing wrong but bought 2 or 3 of them over the years with no luck. This one however was super simple. Set the time, when you want it to come on and when you want it to turn off. It has a mode for military time too if you prefer but you don't have to use this mode. It has a built in battery that will save settings in case there is a short power outage. My only complaint is the plug outlets should be on both sides and 3 prong instead of 2 prong. For me it is on the wrong side. No problem though. In my case I just turned it over. I've used it now for a couple of weeks and really like it.