This is a large, strong, easily controlled sous vide unit. You hook it to your own cooking vessel/pot to make a perfectly temperature controlled water bath. This affordable unit works well and powefully. One word of warning, the unit is large-- and will require a good sized pot or bath to leave enough room for your meats/veg to float in the pot with it. It isn't going to be for dormitory life or a saucepan. You will need a dutch oven (minimal) or stock pot (best) to make good use of it. The electronic touch panel, stainless steel construction and quiet operation make it a joy to use. It's a brilliant thing to have in your kitchen tools collection!