Small weights or big weights?

Hello
I'm planning on getting a weight set for my house, with weights, and a bench. I was wondering what's the diffrence between small weights (AKA the ones that you hold in each hand) or the big bar weight (or a dumbell) if your looking to really 'bulk' up your arms. For exercises like bench press, which would be better? I'm a novice at weight lifting, so would small weights be best for me?


Thanks

The one handed ones are dumbbells. The long bar is a barbell.

 

Long term you want both. 

 

Dumbbells let you do some things that a barbell can't. Barbells can handle much heavier weight and let you do some things a dumbbell can't.

 

So a good set tends to include both. If you get plates and bars then the added cost is pretty low. Just the cost of the added bar. 

Oh, I see!
Thanks! :D