I have been using pan head bolt testers for many years and have found that they only offer a few threads for sizing bolts. With this device, you can turn the bolt a few turns to make sure it doesn't wobble. The advantage over plate testers is that you can test both bolts and nuts. They are well marked, cover the dimensions of common automotive and household nuts and bolts and are on the same steel cable to avoid losing them. The keychain flash is an extra feature that I don't really need, but it works too.