As much as I liked how the chips looked when I saw them on Overstock, I can't say enough about how nice they look when they are stacked in front of you. It was a great moment when I first opened the box and saw the chips for the first time. Although I can't imagine why anyone would ever pay $499 for them, I also can't imagine why anyone wouldn't pay the Overstock price. I've had a lot of fun playing poker with friends over the years. These chips actually make it more fun --- it's as if the chips improve/enhance the poker ambiance. It's hard to put into words, but I'm not so sure I'm going to be willing to play with lesser quality chips if I have the option of using mine instead. I haven't noticed any chip/paint flaws. Their weight really complements their appearance --- makes you feel like like you're playing with expensive chips. They also have a very nice clinking sound --- I can't say they feel or sound like casino chips, but they sound much better than cheaper clay composite chips. As for the carrying case, I think the handle will be sturdy enough assuming you don't carry it by the handle for long periods of time --- my judgment might be a little biased given all the negative comments I read about the handle. My only disappointment is that the blue/orange chips are ugly --- they just don't belong with the other chips. Note, the red chips have black with them --- NOT orange as depicted on Overstock. My only complaint is that the chips don't fill up the casino case ---of couse, this really doesn't matter much. I literally spent hours looking at the chips on Overstock trying to figure out which to buy. I didn't imagine I'd be as happy with these chips as I was when I first saw them and as I will be everytime I play with them. Unless you have to have clay chips, these clay composite chips are all that you will need.