This dehydrator is top notch for the money. I read the reviews, making note of people wanting timers, time tables in the instruction manual being incorrect and one that states they didn't like the hole in the middle, huh? That's where the fan blows hot air downward. As far as a timer and the manual being off on time tables, let me point out you don't need a timer and you don't want to rely on one. This dehydrator doesn't take days to finish, so if you have to leave the house or go to bed..unplug it. Use it when you can check on the progress. It's not a Crock Pot. As far as the time tables being off, take into consideration that people cut their foods into different thickness and a quarter inch differs from eye to eye. Humidity levels are different place to place and so many different factors are in play. So the time tables are only a guide and not the law. That's why you DON'T want to use a timer. This product can also be used WITHOUT electricity. Take the top motor off, cover the top... Read more

I bought this product because I am getting into raw foods. It works beautifully to dry fruits and vegetables. I have done apples, pears, mango, bananas, strawberries and pineapple. The dried watermelon and cantaloupe are the best, as they taste like candy! It also does a nice job on flax crackers. I would suggest rotating the trays mid-way, since the top and bottom trays seem to dry more quickly.

This dehydrator works just the way it should - quietly and efficiently. The jerky came out perfect and took slightly less time than was expected (about 6 hours). Given the relatively low cost and ease of use, this product is worth it. If you are going to do more than 3 pounds of meat you might want to buy additional trays. Cleanup was also quite easy. There are other products that cost more, but I doubt that they do the job any better.