After doing a lot of research on microneedling I decided to go ahead with it. This is obviously my first pen, so I don't really have anything to gauge it against. I don't numb up for it, so I feel everything the pen does, and I can tell you that it doesn't drag or scrape during movement across the skin at any of the speed or depth settings. I've used the pen 6 times for deep sessions (settings up to 2.0-2.5) and have used it at it's highest speed on many occasions. I've never experienced any problems with the needling mechanism or any damage to my skin caused by the pen.....other than what it's supposed to be doing, I mean. I've seen great results from using it over the past 9 months. It holds a charge really well and I've never had it run down on me during any of my sessions (which can be 30-45 minutes). It charges back up quickly, as well. One thing to note is that when you change out the needle tip you need to have the depth setting at 0 or it won't set in the pen correctly. It will still operate even though it's not all the way down into the slot (there should be something changed about that). You will immediately know the difference though, so just take the tip back out, move the depth setting to 0 and reinsert the tip. You can order replacement cartridges (12 & 36 needle) on Amazon for it. I've used both and had no issues. For my first pen, I'm very satisfied with the way it functions and how durable it seems. I've seen no reduction in the way it performs after 20+ uses. (I needle lightly once a week and deep once a month). I STRONGLY suggest doing your research on the devices, the proper depths for various areas on your body, the products it's safe to use, and the no-go areas, safety, and proper sanitation/hygiene practices. BEFORE you begin microneedling. This is not something you want to just "try out" without taking what you're doing seriously. This device is a great intro machine for microneedling, IMO.