If this is the model I had(which I bought at walmart for aroudn $50) it is a brushed aluminum finish. It does make a loud squealing noise when it first powers on which like someone else said may startle you at first.
I leave mine plugged in all the time. It makes for some entertaining moments when a friend or family member asks to borrow my jeep. I let them know that the car has been having some electrical problems so if they hear a loud squealing noise when they turn on the car to drop everything and get out as soon as possible b/c its gonna blow!
Heh, fun to peak through the blinds.
Most switching supplies these days deal with that okay though. Transformered stuff may complain some if it’s not at least modified sine wave.