The locking lid thing is a fantastic idea. Thanks! I'm going out this weekend. Rival seemed to stick out for me as well. Sunbeam mostly just scares me.

It seems that Rival is the most common brand for crock pots, so that's all I really have experience with. The one I have is big enough to feed a whole block! I have a teenage son who can eat as much as a whole block, so it works out well. ; ) No locking lid, but at least it does have a heavy, ceramic inner-pot that removes easily for carrying. I've also found that heavy rubberbands can work sort of like a locking lid. The owner's manual claims that the inner pot is easy to clean and that is so true! Nothing ever seems to stick, it all just vanishes with a little water. (I do still wash it in hot, soapy water, of course.)

If you're looking for a small pot, the one thing to be careful to check is whether or not the ceramic inner pot is removable. Some aren't. Since my son-of-huge-appetite will be going off to college next year, I definitely need to get a smaller crock! Like others here, I don't go so much by brand as I do by what features the crock has compared to what I'm looking for. I have to admit that one of my priorities this time is color. I've been hoping for a red one. Target carries a beau-ti-ful red crock, with all the features I want, including a warm setting. I have a funny feeling I just may find that crock pot under the tree this year!

I've heard that they (Hamilton Beach) have had some problems with their touch pads. I hope you have good luck with yours.

well that probe sure is a nice touch....not sure about for crocking, but just in general!