There's a learning curve with the buttons but the included manual is very helpful. I can do all the things I need with it and it can set many time intervals, even do random if you plan to go on vacation. This helps me wake up in the mornings since my room gets no light and I can't wake up in darkness. I got a "dumb" timer because I don't want to bring an amazon alexa into my home - they seem hackable. Blah blah blah I know my iphone is a listening device already but one less hackable device, the better, right? Also, this is a bit more affordable. It works great. I plan to buy more. Plus the plugs are 3 prong and it doesn't block the outlet above it!