Since it's a relatively inexpensive throne, I didn't have high expectations. However, once I received it, I was very pleasantly surprised by its build quality and light weight. I really like the fact that, unlike some other similarly priced thrones, it doesn't have any plastic parts that would eventually wear out or break. I've been using it daily for a few years now and it is still functioning like new. Sure, it may not be very comfortable to sit on for extended periods of time but it is relatively well padded and isn't showing any signs of wear. It is also great for children and young teenagers because it can be set lower than most other drum thrones I've seen.