The Control Master heat control has exact temperature numbers on it, unlike my stovetop dials that do not.

Heat is controlled very well and the control gives me a better control over the cooking

I love the temp control...the new breakaway feature for the plug makes so much more sense, IMO

I don't think it affects performance all too much, but for the price they charge for this basic large kettle they should have better quality control at Presto to check things like defects in the lids, and shouldn't be sleeping on the job