I bought this automatic pepper/spice grinder for a friend as a house warming present. He loves this thing! He can pop in his favorite spice and this does all the work for him! He says it makes him feel fancy and like he's a in a restauraunt. The spice grinder is a little loud. Additionally, it does seem to go through batteries a little fast. It is a neat little gadget to have around your house and impress your guests though!