Got a demo version before it was introduced. I'm not sure if it's actually on the market yet. (Just checked, here it is -- http://www.target.co...ght/dp/B00266X3NM )

One possible downside is yes, it's plastic. There seemed to be some hairline cracks in one small, fiddly bit, but it could have just been flash from the mold. I've sent them photos to see what they say.

Performance-wise, it sucks hard. And the upholstery attachment has a vacuum-driven brush that actually works really well. Sounds like a jet winding up for take-off when you turn it on. (The upholstery attachment, that is.)

Probably less navigable than the ball, so no sashaying for me. (Drat.) But it's light enough that it's not exactly a struggle to move it around.