I love Tramadol. You have to know how it works.
Tramadol gives an initial SNRI effect which translates to an "up" feeling (antidepressant).
However, after a couple hours, that fades and a metabolite's effect kicks in. You get an opiate effect. I love this aspect of it because it has legs.
A Hydrocodone lasts a couple hours for me, Tramadol will last 5-6 once that part kicks in.
I think lots of people don't pay attention later on and miss the opiate effect. I also know that, if you are after a strong opiate effect, the SNRI effects can be very problematical.
My tolerance is pretty low. A couple Tramadol and then taking a Hydro or two 3-4 hours in works well for me.