I have not owned or fired an "original" M&P, but have a little over 1K rounds downrange with the 2.0 now. I really like the grip, stippling, and the trigger. Can't compare it with originals, but if they do an FDE 2.0 5" in 45ACP I will get one. I am very pleased with the 2.0 I purchased. Only thing I did to mine was add Tru-Glo sights.