I boughtthis one because for some reason there were no slow cookers at the Goodwill when i looked. I've been completely happy with it.

got this one with an American football field design because it was marked down to $23.15. it works.

It does not effect the cooking. If you can find this one where you would live I recommend it but it really does not matter unless you transport it somewhere. I recommend the crock-pot brand simply because I do not know the other one.

I have the Hamilton Beach 33262 Stay or Go 6-Quart Slow Cooker. Title says it all. It has latches for the lid, and it's virtually leakproof when locked. I do not lock it for cooking, though. I believe there is an upscale model that comes with a thermometer, that wasn't something I needed. It's a great cooker.

It is pretty good. Good size. Good brand. It is my second choice for slow cookers after this one. There is little difference though to be honest. I am just a Hamilton Beach fan for my slow cookers.

Hamilton Beach Stay or Go 6QT for the price is the best on the market in my opinion.

For more options the Hamilton Beach Set and Forget 6QT is great as well but costs a bit more.

6qts should be just about the right size you want. It will let you make large batches without completely filling it.