I have been a faithful user of Braun Oral-B rechargeable toothbrushes for about 5 years. This brush does a great job just like the brushes I've used in the past. I like the 2 minute timer. This feature is typically not available in their entry level brushes, but this one has it, and I found out quickly that I wasn't brushing for nearly long enough. (now I am)
The handle on mine does not even get warm when it is charging...and I have never seen this issue with a Braun Oral-B brush...doesn't sound normal to me.
I think this brush has more vibrations per minute than my previous Braun Oral-B brush. Since I have been using these brushes I haven't had a single cavity, and often get comments at the dentist about how there is almost no work for them to do.
I buy the brushheads off fleaBay for a lot cheaper than you can find elsewhere, and everyone in my family has a Braun Oral-B brush in some form or fashion. I highly recommend this brush. Why wouldn't you spend $16 + maybe another $10 annually for brush heads to insure a healthy mouth and a beautiful smile?