This pencil iron really does heat up in about 15 seconds. No waiting around for this baby! I had been using a very short, travel size 3/4" flatiron and find this full length one a bit easier to work with. I have very short, very straight hair and this works perfect for me. I use a medium heat and the curl lasts all day. This unit is dual voltage and light weight, but between the long cord and the full length, it is pretty bulky for travel.The on/off and temperature selector are inside which took some getting used to but at least you don't accidentally hit them when styling. It's supposed to have a 60 minute auto shut off but I always just unplug mine between uses. The cord is quite long and swivels at the handle but its more like a wire than a normal cord. It will keep the kinks and bends from being folded, or coiled until you actually bend it back flat. I'd have rather had a more "supple" cord and worry that the bending and unbending will eventually cause failure. That would be my only "con" for this item.