Bought the 5 arm because a simple 2 arm with magnifying glass usually requires at least one arm more and is not strong enough. The base of this item feels twice as heavy, and because it's much wider with rubber feet, it won't move or tip over. I read a review where they complained that the arms were too high and didn't allow them to work close to the countertop and rest their hands while soldering. The two-armed tool I had lets you work no closer than about 3 inches from the surface and has the alligator clips parallel to the surface. This tool lets you work as close to the surface as possible, but it probably works best. If you move your arms to the side (see photo), the angle of the bend is smaller, which also keeps your hands where you put them. Also, I was impressed with the customer service which is a bit of a double edged sword as I had to deal with customer service! Out of the box one of the bottom threads of the handle was damaged and wouldn't let the screw go except half way. I contacted them and they immediately sent 2 more handles with gear. As one review mentions metal filings in the arm bases, it would be wise to check before reassembling.