Yes, they are. If you’re looking to spread grass seed on a small-size lawn, or need to seed a small area of your lawn then a handheld spreader is your best bet. They’re cheap, easy-to-use, and won’t take up much space in your garage. I also like that these small handheld lawn spreaders are pre-assembled and ready to use as soon as you remove the tag or take it out of its box. That said, if you are spreading fertilizer or herbicide/pesticides with a handheld spreader you need to take extra precautions and wear PPE (personal protective equipment). Since these spreaders are held closer to your body (and face) you need to be sure to protect yourself, and it’s particularly important to choose a day without wind. Personally I only use handheld spreaders for grass seed applications, and use my broadcast spreader for all herbicide and fertilizer applications.