Bought the Pro model directly from the manufacturer in 2016. Let me first say I loved the machine until it stopped working in less than a year. It can only be used under conditions where there is minimal wind but I didn't mind as I used it only in the garage. I have a pitching machine and batting cage in my yard which my son uses duiring the season but the Pro is great for keeping hand/eye sharp during the winter months. May have used the Pro not more than 30 hours total. Contacted tthe manufacturer (granted about a week or two after the warranty) who did respond that they have a parts section on their website that I can order parts to fix the machine. One of the levers does not work anymore. In fact, it inhibits the function of the second lever so this is not a DIY job. Manufacturer has not responded to multiple follow up emails even though I was willing to pay to fix the machine. For my purposes, I liked the machine so much that I was thinking of buying another one along with the lifetime warranty but with the lack of customer support that I have received I am not sure the "lifetime warranty" would be honored. I am sure to hear back from the manufacturer as I have read many responses by them where (rightfully or not) they at times get very defensive about critical reviews but these are my honest interactions with SPC.

UPDATE: I finally called SPC directly and spoke with Bob. I did not tell him that I had been frustrated with the lack of communication but simply stated the problem I was having with the machine. He walked me through a dignosis and eventually came up with the solution of sending me a new circuit board and fuse at no charge (I knew a couple of the resistors were burnt but didn't realize the fuse was also blown). Don't know if this is a common issue with the machine but the machine now works again like new. I am happy that the machine is working again and, would probably rate the machine at a 5* based on what I use it for, but cannot give the company/product a 5* yet based on lack of of email communications and potential ongoing reliability issues of the machine. Kudos though for the company in their willingness to send me replacement parts at no charge (even though I would have paid for it). Also, the fact that they did send the parts without knowledge of my unhappiness tells me that they did not do it for public relation purposes.

The kids and I love this! We use it outside and in the basement. Totally recommend. Would also recommend purchasing extra balls too.

This machine is so light and portable. I don't have room to use it indoors and there's usually a breeze that pushes some of the lightweight balls to the side when using outdoors. You can solve this by lining it up to the direction of the breeze. My son is getting lots of hitting practice and has already produced results. We practice for about an hour each session, three times a week.

I bought this for my son and he loves it. This machine is great for working on his batting at home for extra practice. I have this setup in the garage and it's pretty consistent. I like that the machine will pitch in the zone, but will alternate between inside, outside, high, low and straight down the middle pitches. It forces my son to watch the tiny ball and really work on his hand eye coordination. This is my sons first time playing baseball and having this machine has really helped him with his confidence level when it comes to batting.

Best buy ever! We seriously could not have bought a better gift. My son has spent hours hitting the ball and it is definitely improving his swing! I love the curve balls and ability to change the speed. Great gift for a 12 year old.