Upgraded from a Gentec Small torch to the uniweld 3 months ago and I have to say that I couldn't be more happy with my switch. As for body size, the uniweld is about the same diameter as the gentec/smith just a touch longer. The knobs are larger, which I like as the gentec/smith knobs are too small to turn with precision. The real value in this torch vs the gentec/smith is power and versatility. There are tips available for everything from micro sized for intricate soldering work, to large rosebud tips for casting large quantities of metals. My favorite feature, and the main driver for me buying this model, is that there is an adapter made to allow one to connect air/propane or air/acetylene tips to this handle. Otto Frei should consider carrying the adapter, I now use the T6 tip(air/propane) for all my casting and it can easily melt over a pound of bronze to casting temp! This is much cheaper than having to mess with oxygen or even compressed air! All told, this is going to be my go to torch and I don't forsee needing anything else(as this torch does it all, even has a cutting attachment available if you work with steel!).