I love making my own home-made pasta. I had a manual, crank type dough extruder pasta machine which was great if only I could keep it clamped to my counter. Kept slipping around! And turning the handle was a pain because I also had to hold the machine in place while turning and frequently, usually, the handle would simply fall out. The electric machine makes beautiful sheets for lasagna, cannelloni, ravioli, etc. Only disappointment is it can only cut spaghetti width. I was hoping to also cut fettuccine and broader noodles! But all in all, very pleased with the electric machine.