The center cab switcher will give you two motor blocks for power, and will haul quite a bit of weight...
Slightly longer than the Li' Critter, but in my opinion, worth the additional length and expense...
If you want "more compact", go with the Lil' Critter.
If you want something that's a solid/powerful switcher, go with the Center Cab...
And of course, there will be those that disagree with my analysis, but that why you asked for opinions, yes??
