The Flufftastic is an awesome machine! I first got the Vortex and it was VERY MESSY!! Saw the Flufftastic and couldn't find what was better about it vs. the Vortex. After a TON for research I finally found info. This machine is NOT belt driven. It's a better made machine from the same manufacturer. The Sugar Floss comes out the top, BUT I'm assuming its a better motor and that is why the CC is much finer and there is no where near the mess. There is a different technique needed for these type machines though, vs. the pro machine that spew the floss out of the sides. These are double to triple the price and really put out CC FAST! But if you want a nice machine that makes super fine and fluffy CC, this is your machine! Here's what you need to know that they don't tell you: You hold the cone over the top of where it comes out, and you spin the cone to wind it around the cone. Just catch it AS it comes out the top. The "twirl around the bowl" technique that we are familiar with seeing a fair, etc, is for the pro machines that spin the sugar out of the sides! Different machine all together. Hence the mess with these machines. You need to know how it works to know how to collect the floss. So, for the Vortex and Flufftastic, keep the cone over the opening, and twirl. Keep in mind that these lower priced machines waste more sugar and a lot ends up on the sides of the bowl in the form of crystals. It's becasue the motor isn't as big as the pro machines, so more gets spit out instead of melted. BUT with the Flufftasitic, you can just scrape it off the sides and drop it back in and it turns immediatlely into CC! You can probably do the same with the Vortex, but then again, messy. So, if you're looking at this manufacturer, you may want to save yourself the hassle and just buy the blue machine! lol So much better. The Vortex works, don't get me wrong, but they got it better when the made the Flufftastic. Need a PRO unit for big events and you have experience? Get a Paragon or the like. Need a great machine but are a novice? Get the Flufftasic. Hope this help someone understand CC machines. I spend hours researching and I wanted to help anyone who is confused on which.