Islander2C,
I also have steps that are similar to the one posted in your top picture. Mine have slotted sides for better water flow, so they told me at the pool store. I use 4 patio blocks to hold mine down and so far it has worked well.

I like the steps in your top picture because I have do most of my pool maintenance with no help and when I have to pull these steps out of the pool I can do it relatively easily.

A friend of mine has the wedding cake stairs and getting them out of the pool is a 2 person job for sure.

Good Luck!!