I love these . they could not be easier to use , and they feel very solid in my hand . I use to own the Bowflex Selectechs , and while I like they , I feel they be a bit long , sometimes make it awkward to balance . the selectech be also more expensive . this time around , I want to get something compact , easy to use and effective for do dumbbell exercise with light to moderate weight . it be also important my wife be comfortable use they . the PowerBlocks deliver nicely , and I be very happy with my purchase . whether you want to use they like a standard dumbbell , or want to take advantage of the extra handle for two hand exercise , the PowerBlocks could not be simpler . the padding around the handle be great for keep you wrist comfortable as well . I also appreciate the 5 lb . increment , as some company only offer 10 lb between selection . on the flip side , some company offer 2.5 lb , and that be nice , but I have never feel the need for that , personally . you might , so just be sure you research and get the one that do . the one area you need to really watch be where the pin attach to each designate weight . just make sure they line up with the color code weight , and all will be well . even free weight dumbbell be sometimes put in the wrong place , and I have pick up a mixed-matched set , not realize it until I wonder why I get so strong on one arm all of a sudden . the same be true for all other brand , so this be no knock on the product . just be careful . in hindsight , I should have buy the higher capacity PowerBlocks , with the ability to add on . however , this be my problem , and have nothing to do with the quality or effectiveness of this product . my wife will never use more than the weight on the classic , so I may end up get some dumbbell handle I can add Olympic plate to if I want to . or , since I like these so much , I might just order the elite for myself , and let I wife lay claim to the classic . regardless of which PowerBlock product you choose , I think you 'll be very happy with you purchase . I do not have the stand , but have something elevated for the sake of good ergonomics be nice , so you may want to consider one of those if you do not have a table or desk to place these on . there be some nice alternative to standard dumbbell out there , and have lift free weight most of my life , I get just as effective a workout on dumbbell exercise on the adjustable product as I do with individual one . I still believe separate dumbbell have they place , but they have a hard time compete with item that take up much less room and be way less expensive , when consider the weight range involve . so , should you buy the PowerBlocks or the Selectechs , or anything similar , you 'll have a effective way to train with dumbbell . for I personally , the Powerblocks be the best bang for buck one out there , and I think you 'll be quite happy with they too . I think I have say the word `` happy '' enough , so I leave you to you shopping , and I wish you luck and fun in build you home workout area !