Unlike magnesia blocks, there are NO HOLES for solder particles and debris to enter. its flat surface supports my PRECISION SOLDERING work. The piece is less likely to move. In addition, unlike magnesia blocks, this plate does not shed. I didn't try to push the wire into this board like in the solder baskets or pin setups. It would be great if this board was transparent because then soldering tiny wires would be more stable. spherical balls etc but keep this board (I can't scroll down to further edit this review. I don't know why.) in case I need a smooth flat surface.