Ok so I took the leap and bought the Atlas today. Will report back when I get it for other folks who may be considering this press.
Also, for those who might be curious, here's the Joto press that the Atlas looks identical to (other than the paint color):
https://jotoimagingsupplies.com/joto-auto-release-clamshell-heat-press-15-x-15.html
Apparently, these are also identical to an old version of a European press (sold in Europe, manufactured in China) called Secabo. It's wild how the heat press industry works! Seems to me that if they're not manufactured in the US, they're all basically made by the same few manufacturers in China and then branded with each US company's logos and color schemes.
I'm hoping the USC Atlas is truly the same as the Joto, 'cause if it is, US Cutter is selling it for about $300 less than Joto. Score.