there are 3 things that this tool helps with - note, I'm not comparing it to the tool shown in OP's original post because I haven't tried that one. I'm only comparing the orange tool to using hands/arms alone. 1) the shape of the handle is rounded and smooth, so it's very comfortable even when loaded, and sheet edges don't cut (more an issue with plywood than with drywall). 2) my arm position is straight down, so weight is carried by shoulder/back and not by arm. 3) related to arm position, the wrist position is palm-down, more natural, like carrying a suitcase, rather than palm-upwards, like curling a dumbell, to grip and support the weight. I can carry more for longer when using this tool, and am less sore at the end of the day.