The road-SPD (like 105s and Ultegras) differ from one to the other. I found the Ultegra pedal nicer than the 105, more likely to spin on its axle to return to its correct position to facilitate clipping-in. But both were just as hard to clip in and out of, even at the easiest setting. My boyfriend has Ultegra pedals as well and his are much easier to clip in and out of. I have found mine to be a bit easier now than they were when I got them though...

Your comment on the Looks is unusual, everyone has always told me they were much easier to clip in and out of. Maybe you were not very lucky... Or your cleats are getting old? Dunno...

Good luck!