I'm kind of with you, Shawn.
Why thermoelectrics became the "storage of choice" is pretty obvious, but they aren't without their pitfalls, and a guy really has to get "read up" on them to make them work the way they'd like.
Coolers kick ass. They are super easy.
That said, I have a 120 quart igloo that doesn't hold humidity at all. I had to use foam rubber to seal it and I had to put clasps on it.
I really don't want that rig sitting in my living room.
I use converted compressor driven wine fridges. I can do that because I know how to make them work, because refrigeration is what I do for a living, or at least did for a long time.
I also use a great big giant display humi that leaks like a sieve and I love it.
I struggle with it constantly and have to watch it like a hawk.
It makes no sense, but it's what I enjoy doing.
The wine fridge requires zero maintenance and is always perfect. I just don't enjoy it like I enjoy all the trouble.
I do sympathize that vinos and edgestars are pretty much a throw away chinese box, but even after the guts fry, they still make a really nice cooler.
They look nice, too.
It's good that there's as many storage options as there are cigars. It's fun, even if it's infuriating.