It depends on your personal preference. The chain is heavier, at 400g and is made of stainless steel. It is still the classic version as it allows smaller adjustments of the length due to the smaller pieces of the chain. The rope on the other hand is only 100g and has various loops to set your optimal length of maximum 125cm. Which you choose depends on the feel and look you prefer, the length you need, as well as the consideration of weight differences.