The Advantages of Machines:

• They are great for beginners because they are safe and easy to use.
• Machines guide your body through a certain range of motion.
• You don't have to worry about balancing the weight as much as with free weights.
• Machines don't require as much coordination.
• Machines isolate each muscle group.
• Machines let you get in a fast workout. You go through a circuit of machines and then you are finished.
• Machines are usually arranged so that you work large muscle groups and then smaller muscle groups.

The Disadvantages of Machines:

• Machines don't fit everybody. They can be hard to adjust.
• Machines don't build as much balance or coordination.
• Machines can put your body into a bad range of motion. (If you feel uncomfortable move onto another machine.)
• Machines are not portable. They can't be moved around very easily.
• Many bodybuilders believe that working out with machines alone doesn't build a very good body.

The Advantages of Free Weights:

• Free weights are versatile. One set of dumbells can be used for many exercises.
• Free weights build better balance and coordination.
• Free weights work your muscles in a way that matches real life.
• Many bodybuilders primarily use free weights to gain their massive size.
• Free weights allow you to strengthen muscles and tendons that wouldn't get much work when using machines.

The Disadvantages of Free Weights:

• Free weights can be difficult because of the balance and coordination required.
• A free weight workout will take longer than a machine workout.
• You can get injured easier using free weights.