I've owned 4 in 40 years. Last year I gave up the 6 quart, gifted it to Miss BamaVol, who cooks for a larger crowd than I do regularly. I kept a 3 quart for 3 person Sunday meals. I feel like it's a little small for stews and chili and bought a 4 quart this spring. The smaller one is okay for meals with few ingredients, such as pot roast or barbequed ribs. I don't recall the manufacturer of some, but all of mine have been basic models. The smallest one does not have a warm setting which I miss. The Rival cookbook that came with the first has been very handy, giving me recipes that I have used and modified over the years, all of which became family favorites. My only complaint about any have been consistently ill-fitting covers.