Lightweight and not too expensive.
I have the need to store a thicker rubber hose than your typical lightweight vinyl hose.  Since there is no carriage that goes back-and-forth to even-out the windings, this reel suits that purpose (although I would prefer a back-and-forth carriage if it was compatible with my thicker hose.)
Since the sides are not circles, you have to be more careful when winding that the hose does not get caught on one of the wings that hold the hose onto the reel.
Also, would have liked this reel better if the handle had a slip-sleeve so that you can hold on to the handle with a tighter grip.
Finally, would have preferred all-brass fittings -- attaching my heavy rubber hose to the vinyl fittings will surely not end well over time.