I don't need a programmable thermostat for my floors. When the old one blew, and I found that a replacement one was close to $200 (for the programmable model)...I was told about this lower cost version that will simply keep the heat where you set it, and that's about it. AND, that is exactly what I needed. Saved many $$$ by buying the Core. It came as a first quality, everything in the box (to include wire nuts, instructions, etc) unit. Built in GFCI, light up screen. Yes, it came from a pawn shop - but who cares! It's a very useful pawn shop!