I looked it up. isn't it a bit complicated having to heat it myself? might end up burning it..
also, does the basic model hold up?
Nope, not complicated at all in my experience - watch a YouTube vid or ask some questions in the Vapman thread if you get stuck.
In my opinion there is a great deal of enjoyment to be had from the process of loading & heating the Vapman. And don't most things worth knowing take a little time to learn? It is not difficult providing you are able to safely operate a small torch lighter in one hand while holding the vaporizer in the other.
The basic model is fine and will only burn as far as the initial charring period. After this initial blackening there will be little to no further degradation of the Vapman's wooden exterior.
You said you wanted low cost, & this little beauty is pure quality too. From Switzerland!
For me, the Vapman is an absolute pleasure to hold and to use. And I do regularly.
But that is just me. Pick whatever vape you think will most suit your current requirements, and then get a Vapman.