I have the MVP 20W and I have to admit this thing is a sturdy piece of equipment. I've dropped it several times and it just keeps on chugging. As far as safety goes, I have yet to hear of anything horrific happening with an MVP. I wish I could say the same about the iStick because it seems like a good mod, especially when you consider the value(cost per watt) and aesthetics of it, but that's where it seems to end for me. I've never owned one, so I can't speak on the durability of the iStick. The reviews I've read about them auto firing or exploding is enough for me to know that I don't want one under my roof. It seems like a hit or miss with the iStick, though. Some people swear by them while others run as far away from them as possible. Maybe it depends on if you got one made on a Friday, or a Wednesday. Who knows?

While the video reviews are good for initial(brand new) reactions, you really should look for reviews from people that have put the mods through daily use. Do a quick search on iStick malfunctions and MVP malfunctions. This should give you plenty of reading material to decide which you think is less of a hazard. Hope this helps, and good luck!