I try not to buy things that don't work, agreeing obviously that buying something multiple times is almost always costlier than buying something solid once. For the price, I did feel I was taking a risk, though read some good reviews, and the sheer number of units sold was reassuring. Just built today, by myself, in about 75 minutes, I am impressed. Shipping was perfect. The instructions are fantastic...there are zoom-in's that are super helpful, and examples of just saying what direction things should be in clear English (Spanish and French instructions included and lots of pictures, but would recommend finding YouTube demo if not speaking English.) You need a Phillips, there is a typical light wrench and Allen included. Occasionally the angle is odd, but you can usually shift to make it easier. I am using a thick mattress, which I would recommend because, as stated by others, things are designed lower to the floor. As it sits, I would not want it higher than it is. Not sure where it will live between "family" and "play" room, but totally works in either. If the metal brackets are placed that keep things upright (couch), it is difficult to switch. I plan to use it as a couch almost always, so this is a non-issue. The few times I will convert it to a bed, I will remove the mattress and brackets. If you are frequently going back and forth, put the brackets in a drawer. It shifts perfectly, smoothly, and rather quietly, and gravity will keep things solid. It has been a day, so if everything goes to hell, I'll update, but you typically know if something is almost definitely going to work long-term, and after building, I am feeling confident.