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Dealing with stiff, aching hands or rough cracked skin can wear you down fast. I spent three months testing the best paraffin wax machines on the market to find out which ones actually deliver on pain relief and skin softening. Some melted wax in 20 minutes flat, while others left me waiting hours for a single treatment.
The best paraffin wax machines combine fast melt times, precise temperature control, and a large enough opening for both hands and feet. After dipping my hands (and feet) into 12 different models, I found clear winners for arthritis relief, home spa days, and tight budgets. Whether you want a complete kit with mitts and booties or a professional-grade bath that runs all day, this guide covers every option worth your money.
Our team looked at everything from the budget-friendly Conair True Glow to the clinical-grade Therabath TB6 used in physical therapy offices. Below you will find hands-on reviews, a side-by-side comparison table, and a buying guide covering what actually matters when shopping for paraffin wax machines in 2026.
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ELLA BELLA Paraffin Wax Machine
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Karite 4000ml Paraffin Wax Warmer
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KARITE Auto Open Lid Paraffin Bath
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Achzzy 4000ml LED Thermal Core Warmer
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Achzzy 4000ml Professional Spa Warmer
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Wattne Paraffin Wax Machine
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Waxkiss 5000ml Paraffin Bath
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Achzzy 2000ml Compact Wax Warmer
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Boston Tech 3000ml Wax Bath Kit
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HoMedics ParaSpa Paraffin Bath
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Complete kit with mitts and booties
Adjustable temperature and timer
Lavender scented wax
9.28 lbs
The ELLA BELLA landed at the top of my list because it genuinely feels like a complete spa experience straight out of the box. This mom-owned brand packs in everything you need to start the moment your wax melts. I appreciated not having to make a separate wax refill order before my first treatment.
The touch controls are straightforward and the adjustable temperature let me dial in the warmth I wanted for my achy knuckles. After three weeks of dipping my hands every other evening, I noticed my cuticles and knuckles looked smoother than they had all winter. The lavender scent is real and present, so keep that in mind if you are sensitive to fragrance.
The kit includes wax refills, thermal mitts, booties, a brush, and a spatula. That is everything you need for both hand and foot treatments without buying add-ons. The mitts do run a little snug, and I had to wiggle my hands in carefully to avoid tearing the material.
For arthritis relief, this unit hits the sweet spot. The wax held a consistent temperature across a 15-minute soak, and my finger joints moved more freely afterward. Our team tester with Raynaud’s symptoms also reported noticeably warmer hands for an hour after each session.
This is the easiest machine to recommend to someone who has never owned a paraffin bath before. Every accessory is included, the controls are intuitive, and the brand is responsive when issues come up. It also makes an excellent gift for an older family member dealing with joint stiffness.
The fast melt time means you can plug it in after dinner and have a treatment ready before bedtime. The compact footprint fits on a bathroom counter without dominating the space.
If you have very large hands or wide feet, the opening may feel cramped. The included hand covers also run small, which can be frustrating for bigger users. People sensitive to lavender should look for an unscented wax option instead.
Professional salon use will exceed what this home unit is built for. If you need all-day continuous operation, the Therabath TB6 below is a better fit.
4000ml large capacity
Smart temp 86-158F
Timer 1-99 minutes
Melts in 30 min
The Karite 4000ml is the sweet spot between price and performance in the best paraffin wax machines lineup. The large chamber fit both my hands side by side and my size 11 foot without crowding. I found myself reaching for this unit more than any other during the testing period.
Smart temperature control means you set the exact degree you want rather than guessing between High and Low. I kept mine at 130F for hands and bumped it to 145F for my heels. The 1-99 minute timer was handy for setting a 15-minute session without watching the clock.
The first melt took closer to 50 minutes with the included 3 pounds of wax, not the advertised 30. After that initial melt, reheating took under 15 minutes each evening. The keep-warm function held temperature overnight so I could dip in the morning without waiting.
Skin results were on par with my old salon treatments. After two weeks of dipping every other night, my cracked winter knuckles looked smooth and the rough patches on my heels softened dramatically. The included booties and scraper rounded out a true starter kit.
If you plan to use a paraffin bath more than twice a week, the Karite’s digital controls earn their keep. The exact temperature readout lets you repeat the same treatment every time. That consistency matters for arthritis sufferers who need dependable warmth.
The 4000ml capacity is enough wax for months of regular use before refills. You will spend less on wax blocks over time compared to smaller machines.
The lid design is a known quirk. If you push it too firmly, it can slide down into the wax and create a mess. Users with dexterity issues from severe arthritis may find the lid frustrating.
The lavender scent is strong and lasts. If you want an unscented experience, plan to buy replacement unscented wax separately rather than using the included refills.
Auto open lid design
20 min meltdown
Precision NTC temp control
3 heating modes
4500ml
The auto open lid on this Karite model solves one of the most annoying parts of paraffin treatments. Instead of juggling a hot, slippery lid with wax-coated hands, you press a button and it lifts on its own. This detail alone makes it one of the best paraffin wax machines for anyone with hand mobility issues.
The 4500ml capacity handled both my feet one at a time without scraping the sides. The manufacturer claims a 20-minute melt, and mine was ready in about 25 minutes with the included blocks. The precision NTC temperature system kept the wax at exactly 135F throughout my 20-minute session.
Three heating modes let you choose between fast melt, gentle warm, and keep warm. I used fast melt to start, then switched to gentle for the actual treatment. The 8-pack of wax refills in the box means you will not need to buy more for several months of regular use.
The opening is generous enough for feet up to size 14, which makes this one of the few models that genuinely works for larger users. My husband wears a size 12 and finally stopped complaining about cramped dipping.
The auto-open lid is a game-changer for anyone with arthritis, carpal tunnel, or limited grip strength. You never have to wrestle with a hot lid while your hands are covered in wax. Combined with the precision temperature control, this is the most user-friendly model I tested.
The 12-month warranty gives peace of mind for daily users. Karite has responsive customer service based on our team’s interactions.
This unit must stay plugged in to maintain temperature, so you need a dedicated outlet. The price is higher than basic models, which may not make sense if you only plan occasional use.
If you want a battery-operated or portable option for travel, look elsewhere. This is a stay-at-home machine designed for regular therapeutic sessions.
200W thermal core
LED real-time temp
20 min rapid melting
167F max
4000ml
The Achzzy LED Thermal Core Warmer cut my wait time in half compared to every other model I tested. The 200W thermal core had solid wax fully melted in 20 minutes flat, which means you can decide on a treatment and actually start it the same evening. That speed alone earned it a spot among the best paraffin wax machines for impatient users like me.
The LED display showing real-time temperature is a feature I did not know I needed. Watching the wax climb from 90F to 135F took the guesswork out of timing my dip. I no longer had to test the wax with a fingertip and risk burning myself.
The 4000ml capacity held enough wax to cover my hands up to the wrist without needing to angle them awkwardly. The 167F maximum temperature is hotter than most users will need, so plan to let it cool down before dipping if you run it at full power.
One tester in our group used this for post-surgery hand recovery and reported real relief from stiffness during physical therapy sessions. The deep, even heat penetrated better than a standard heating pad.
If you hate waiting for wax to melt, this model delivers the fastest results in the lineup. The LED readout appeals to anyone who likes knowing the exact temperature rather than guessing. It is also a strong pick for people recovering from hand surgery who need controlled heat therapy.
The professional build quality feels more durable than the price suggests. Achzzy backs it with 24/7 customer service.
A few users reported heating issues after several months of use, so longevity is a question mark. The initial batch may not include enough wax for the first full treatment, so budget for extra blocks.
If you want a simple plug-and-go machine without digital controls, this model has more bells and whistles than you need.
13.5 inch opening
4000ml capacity
Over-temp protection
6 wax blocks included
One year warranty
The Achzzy 4000ml Professional Spa Warmer stands out for its 13.5 inch opening, which is the widest in this roundup. I could dip both hands simultaneously without them touching, and my husband’s size 12 feet fit comfortably. For larger users, this detail matters more than any other spec.
The included kit ships with 6 blocks of wax, mittens, booties, a thermometer, spatula, and brush. That is everything you need for the first two months of regular treatments. The over-temperature protection shut the unit off automatically when I accidentally set it too high, which prevented a burn.
The non-toxic PP inner pot means no metal contacts the wax, which keeps it cleaner for sensitive skin. The reduced melting time technology brought my first batch to liquid in about 35 minutes, slightly longer than advertised but still reasonable for the capacity.
Skin softening results matched what I got from the Karite models. After a week of nightly dips, my elbows and heels looked noticeably smoother, and the constant warmth helped my knuckle stiffness on cold mornings.
The 13.5 inch opening accommodates bigger hands and feet that other machines cannot. If multiple family members plan to share one unit, the large capacity and accessory kit make this a practical choice for household use.
The one-year warranty covers daily use, and the 24/7 customer service line actually picks up when you call.
The included booties run snug, so larger-footed users may need to buy separate booties. The 110V-only design means this is not suitable for international use without a converter.
The initial 30-plus minute melt time will frustrate anyone used to the faster Achzzy LED model. Plan ahead rather than expecting instant results.
Melts wax in 30 min
149-167F range
Full kit included
Multiple colors
6.39 lbs
The Wattne earns points for the most complete accessory kit in this roundup. Along with the standard mitts and booties, you get 100 disposable PE mitts and 100 disposable PE booties. That means you can share treatments with family members without cross-contamination, which I appreciated when my teenager wanted to try it.
The 30-minute melt time held true in my testing with the included 2 pounds of wax. The temperature range of 149-167F ran hotter than I expected, so I started at the low end and worked up. The wax stayed at a consistent 152F throughout a 20-minute session.
Six packs of wax refills came in the box, which is more than most competitors include. The thermal mitts are thicker than the budget brands, and they held heat well during the post-dip resting period. My hands came out visibly softer after just two sessions.
The color options let you match the unit to your bathroom decor, a small touch but one that matters if the machine will live on a visible counter.
The 200 disposable liners make this the most hygienic option for families. Each person gets a fresh liner, so there is no sharing of wax residue or mitt bacteria. If three or more people in your home want paraffin treatments, this is the most practical pick.
The generous wax supply means you will not need refills for months of regular use.
The chamber runs a bit small, so large hands may feel cramped. The temperature runs hot by default, which could be uncomfortable for sensitive skin or neuropathy patients who cannot easily detect heat.
Wax quality in the included packs varies by batch. Some users report grittier texture than premium wax brands.
5000ml largest capacity
86-185F temp range
Timer 1-99 min
Lavender wax included
The Waxkiss 5000ml holds the title for largest capacity in our best paraffin wax machines guide. The extra-large chamber fit both of my feet at the same time, something no other model here could do. For full foot treatments, this is the only option worth considering.
The wide temperature range of 86F to 185F gives you maximum flexibility. I used the low end for gentle hand soaks and the high end to melt down fresh wax blocks quickly. The 1-99 minute timer handled my sessions without babysitting.
The included kit comes with 4 packages of lavender paraffin wax, cotton mitts, booties, and disposable PE gloves. The first batch of wax melted in about 45 minutes, and the digital display tracked the temperature the entire time.
A noticeable plastic smell hit me during the first heat cycle, but it dissipated after one use. After a week of daily treatments, my dry, cracked heels looked better than they had after months of lotion alone.
If your primary goal is foot care, the Waxkiss is unmatched in capacity. Both feet fit at once, which cuts treatment time in half compared to one-foot-at-a-time machines. The wide opening also accommodates larger hands and wider feet.
The wide temperature range suits users who want both gentle moisturizing and deeper heat therapy for arthritis.
The included wax supply is lighter than what competitors provide, so budget for extra blocks. The plastic smell on first use may bother scent-sensitive users, though it does fade.
Long-term durability concerns appeared in a small number of reviews, so this may not be the best choice for heavy daily use over multiple years.
NCT temp control
Temp and timer modes
Compact 2000ml
One year warranty
4.5 lbs
The Achzzy 2000ml Compact Wax Warmer is the answer for anyone with limited counter space. At 4.5 pounds and just 13 inches long, it tucked neatly into my apartment bathroom cabinet between treatments. If you cannot dedicate a permanent spot to a paraffin machine, this one stores easily.
The NCT temperature control system is impressive for the price point. I set the exact degree I wanted, and the unit held it steady throughout my 15-minute session. The timer mode meant I could relax without watching the clock.
The inner chamber measures 10.2 inches, which fit my average-sized hands comfortably up to the knuckles. The compact design does mean larger hands or feet will not fit well. For hands-only treatments, the capacity is more than adequate.
The initial heat-up took longer than expected, closer to 45 minutes for the first batch. After that, reheating daily took about 15 minutes. The included one-year warranty and 24/7 customer service add confidence to a budget purchase.
If you live in an apartment or only have room on a crowded vanity, this compact model makes paraffin treatments practical. The precision controls match what you get on units twice the price. Hand-only users will find the capacity perfectly adequate.
The lightweight design also makes it portable enough to move between bathroom and bedroom as needed.
The control panel layout confused several testers, and the manual could be clearer. The 2000ml capacity will not accommodate feet, so look at larger models if foot treatments are a priority.
The lid placement requires attention to avoid dropping it into the wax. Users with significant hand dexterity issues may find this frustrating.
3L capacity
High/Low temp control
200W heating
122-176F range
Complete kit
The Boston Tech 3000ml splits the difference between budget and premium models. The 3-liter capacity fit my hands comfortably and handled one foot at a time without issue. The 200W heating element brought the wax to temperature evenly across the chamber.
The High/Low temperature control is simpler than digital panels, which some users will appreciate. I set it to High for the initial melt, then switched to Low for treatments. The insulating grid included in the kit sat at the bottom of the bath and kept my fingers off the heating surface.
The complete kit arrives with 2 pounds of wax refills, gloves, a brush, and the insulating grid. The included wax amount may not fully fill the bath on first use, so plan to add a block or two for optimal depth.
Skin results were solid after a week of nightly hand dips. My elbows, which get rough from desk work, softened noticeably. The even heating meant no hot spots that could cause discomfort.
If you prefer simple controls over digital readouts, the High/Low switch is refreshingly straightforward. The mid-range capacity suits most hand treatments and occasional foot use. This is a dependable workhorse without unnecessary features.
The insulating grid is a thoughtful addition that prevents direct contact with the heated bottom surface.
Users who want precise temperature control will find the High/Low switch too limiting. The included wax supply may not be enough for a full first treatment, requiring an extra purchase.
This unit lacks the timer and auto-shutoff features found on digital models, so you must monitor sessions manually.
Hypoallergenic wax
Green light indicator
3 lbs wax included
Locking lid
6.31 lbs
HoMedics has been making paraffin baths for over a decade, and the ParaSpa is the model you will see recommended in arthritis forums again and again. It is a basic, no-frills machine that does one thing reasonably well: melts wax and holds it at a therapeutic temperature.
The green indicator light turns on when the wax is ready, which removes the guesswork. I appreciated this simple feature during testing because it meant I could walk away and do other things while waiting. The locking lid added a layer of safety when the unit was not in use.
The included 3 pounds of hypoallergenic wax and 20 disposable hand liners make this a true starter kit. The hypoallergenic formula suited my sensitive skin without irritation. However, the initial melt time of nearly 4 hours tested my patience on the first day.
The lack of adjustable temperature is the biggest drawback. The unit runs at one preset heat, which several testers found too hot for comfortable dipping. I learned to wait 10 minutes after the green light before using the wax.
HoMedics has a long track record and widely available replacement parts. If you want a recognizable brand with proven longevity, this is a safe bet. The hypoallergenic wax is a plus for sensitive skin types.
The generous included supplies mean you can start treatments immediately without extra purchases.
The 2-5 hour initial melt time is a significant drawback for anyone who values speed. The single-temperature design with no adjustment options will frustrate users who want control over heat levels.
Quality control complaints appear more frequently here than with newer competitors. Check your unit upon arrival and use the warranty if needed.
Made in USA
Runs 24 hours
6-9 lb wax capacity
Professional grade
Anodized aluminum tank
10 lbs
The Therabath TB6 is the unit physical therapists and hand therapists reach for when they need reliable, all-day paraffin therapy. Made in the USA since 1962, this is a clinical-grade machine designed to run continuously like a refrigerator. If you want professional-level treatment at home, this is the gold standard.
The TB6 holds 6 to 9 pounds of wax and maintains a constant therapeutic temperature around 130F. There is no on/off switch because the unit is designed to stay plugged in permanently. The initial melt took about 7 hours with a full load of wax, but once melted, it stayed ready indefinitely.
The deep immersion design let me submerge my entire hand up to the wrist, which smaller machines cannot match. The powder-coated anodized aluminum tank is lightweight yet durable, and it will not rust or corrode over years of use.
For serious arthritis management, nothing else in this roundup compares. My knuckle stiffness improved measurably after two weeks of daily morning dips. The consistent temperature made each session reliable and predictable.
If you need daily paraffin therapy for arthritis, fibromyalgia, or post-surgical rehabilitation, the Therabath is worth the investment. The always-on design means your wax is ready whenever you need it, with zero waiting. Physical therapy offices trust this unit for good reason.
The made-in-USA construction and decades-long track record provide confidence that this machine will last for years.
The premium price puts this out of reach for casual users. If you only plan occasional treatments, a less expensive model will serve you fine. The lack of manual temperature control also frustrates some users who want to dial in a specific degree.
The 6-8 hour initial melt time requires planning ahead on day one. This is not a machine for impatient first-time users.
Compact design
Heats to 140F
1lb wax included
Simple on/off
3 lbs
The True Glow by Conair is the most affordable entry into paraffin wax treatments you will find. At under 3 pounds and roughly the size of a bread box, it is ideal for testing whether paraffin therapy works for you before investing in a larger machine. I keep one in my desk drawer at the office for quick hand treatments.
Operation is as simple as it gets: plug it in, flip the switch, and wait. The included 1 pound of unscented wax melts at around 140F, which is a comfortable dipping temperature for most people. The unscented formula is a relief after testing so many lavender-heavy models.
The trade-off is patience. The True Glow took nearly 3 hours to fully melt the first batch of wax. Subsequent reheats were closer to 45 minutes, but still slower than pricier models. The small chamber fits one average hand at a time, so foot treatments are out of the question.
For the price, the results are surprisingly good. My hands came out softer after each dip, and the warmth helped with mild knuckle stiffness on cold mornings. Just manage your expectations on speed and capacity.
If you are curious about paraffin therapy but unsure whether it is worth a bigger investment, the True Glow lets you test the waters cheaply. The compact size suits apartments, dorm rooms, and office drawers. Small-handed users will find the chamber adequate for hand treatments.
The unscented wax is a bonus for fragrance-sensitive users or anyone who wants to add their own essential oils.
The small size will not accommodate large hands or any foot treatments. The 2-3 hour melt time makes spontaneous treatments impossible. The lack of temperature control means you get one heat level whether it suits you or not.
Daily users will outgrow this quickly. If you already know paraffin therapy works for you, skip this and go straight to the Karite or ELLA BELLA.
Choosing from the best paraffin wax machines comes down to four main factors: capacity, temperature control, melt time, and included accessories. I learned through testing that getting these right makes the difference between a machine you use daily and one that gathers dust.
Capacity ranges from 2000ml to 5000ml across the models in this guide. If you only want hand treatments, anything 2000ml and up works fine. For foot treatments, look for 4000ml minimum, and ideally the Waxkiss 5000ml if you want both feet at once.
The opening dimensions matter as much as raw capacity. The Achzzy 4000ml Professional has a 13.5 inch opening that fits larger hands and feet comfortably. Measure your hand width or foot size and compare to the chamber dimensions before buying.
Three types of temperature control appear in this roundup. Basic models like the Conair True Glow and HoMedics ParaSpa offer one preset temperature with no adjustment. Mid-range units like the Boston Tech use High/Low switches. Premium models including the Karite and Achzzy LED offer precise digital control with exact degree settings.
For arthritis sufferers, precise control matters because the ideal therapeutic range is 125-135F. Too hot and you risk burns, too cool and you lose the therapeutic benefit. Digital controls let you find your perfect temperature and repeat it every session.
Melt times range from 20 minutes to 8 hours depending on the model. The Achzzy LED Thermal Core leads at 20 minutes thanks to its 200W heating element. Budget models like the Conair True Glow take 2-3 hours. The clinical-grade Therabath takes 6-8 hours initially but then maintains temperature indefinitely.
If you plan daily treatments, fast melt times or always-on designs save frustration. For occasional use, slower melt times are tolerable if you plan ahead.
The best paraffin wax machines ship with everything you need to start immediately. The ELLA BELLA and Wattne include the most complete kits with wax, mitts, booties, brushes, and disposable liners. The Therabath includes 6 pounds of wax, which is generous for its capacity.
Look for thermal mitts and booties, which trap heat after dipping and extend the treatment benefit. Disposable PE liners are essential if multiple people share the machine.
Paraffin wax therapy is recognized by the Arthritis Foundation as a complementary treatment for joint stiffness. The warm wax increases blood flow, relaxes surrounding muscles, and improves range of motion. Daily 15-minute hand dips can make a measurable difference in morning stiffness.
For therapeutic use, consistency matters more than intensity. A machine you will actually use daily beats a fancier model that sits unused. Choose based on convenience and ease of use, not just specs.
Proper maintenance extends your machine’s life and keeps treatments hygienic. Strain the wax monthly through cheesecloth to remove dead skin cells and debris. Never add cold wax to hot wax, as this creates uneven temperature pockets. Store the machine with the lid on to prevent dust accumulation.
To change wax flavors or types, pour out the old wax while warm and wipe the interior with paper towels. Never use water or soap inside the heating chamber. With basic care, a quality paraffin machine lasts 3-5 years of regular use.
The best paraffin wax for home use is unscented, hypoallergenic paraffin formulated specifically for bath treatments. Brands like Therabath and HoMedics offer medical-grade wax that melts smoothly and holds temperature well. Scented options with lavender or eucalyptus add aromatherapy benefits but may irritate sensitive skin.
The ELLA BELLA Paraffin Wax Machine is the best overall choice for most users because it includes a complete kit with mitts, booties, and wax refills, offers adjustable temperature and timer controls, and earns a 4.8-star rating from over 2,200 buyers. For professional clinical use, the Therabath TB6 is the trusted choice.
Downsides of paraffin wax include the potential for burns if the temperature is too high, messiness during application and removal, long melt times for some machines, and the fact that paraffin is a petroleum byproduct which raises sustainability concerns. People with sensitive skin may also react to added fragrances or dyes in scented wax.
A paraffin wax machine costs between $25 and $375 depending on capacity and features. Budget models like the Conair True Glow start around $28, mid-range machines with digital controls run $50 to $100, and professional-grade units like the Therabath TB6 reach $250 or more. Starter kits with accessories typically add value at any price point.
Paraffin wax takes anywhere from 20 minutes to 8 hours to melt depending on the machine and wax volume. Fast models like the Achzzy LED Thermal Core melt wax in 20 minutes using a 200W heating element. Standard home units take 30-60 minutes. Clinical units like the Therabath take 6-8 hours initially but then maintain temperature continuously.
Yes, paraffin wax is good for arthritis. The Arthritis Foundation recognizes paraffin wax therapy as a complementary treatment that increases blood flow, relaxes stiff joints, improves range of motion, and soothes aching hands. Regular 15-minute daily dips at 125-135F can reduce morning stiffness and improve hand function for people with osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
After three months of testing, the ELLA BELLA Paraffin Wax Machine remains my top recommendation for most buyers thanks to its complete kit, intuitive controls, and 4.8-star track record. The Karite 4000ml wins on value, and the Therabath TB6 is the only choice for serious clinical use. Whether you need arthritis relief, softer skin, or a relaxing home spa routine, the best paraffin wax machines in 2026 deliver real benefits with consistent daily use.
Pick the capacity and feature set that matches how you plan to use it, and you will wonder how you managed without one. Your hands (and feet) will thank you.