The Best Chicken Coop to Buy: A Thorough Guide

Are you considering getting chickens for your backyard but feeling overwhelmed by the multitude of chicken coop options available? Choosing the best chicken coop involves considering several factors such as size, quality, features, and ease of maintenance. To help you make an informed decision, let’s explore some top recommendations for the best chicken coops to buy.

---

Pros

• Modern Design: The Eglu Cube stands out with its sleek and modern design. Made from durable, easy-to-clean plastic, it offers a refreshing change from traditional wooden coops.
• Easy to Clean: Cleaning is a breeze with the Eglu Cube. Its slide-out dropping tray and smooth surfaces make it quick and simple to maintain good hygiene for your chickens.
• Predator-Proof: The chicken coop’s sturdy construction and secure locking system provide excellent protection against predators such as foxes and raccoons, offering peace of mind to chicken owners.
• Well-ventilated: Proper ventilation is crucial for chicken health, and the Eglu Cube excels in this area. It has ventilation slots and a large door that can be opened for air circulation.
• Insulated Option: An optional insulating jacket is available for the Eglu Cube, making it suitable for colder climates and extending the comfort of your chickens into the winter months.
• Low Maintenance: Unlike wooden chicken coops that can rot or require frequent painting, the Eglu Cube is low maintenance. It’s resistant to pests and weather conditions, making it a durable choice.

Cons

• Cost: The Eglu Cube is more expensive compared to many traditional wooden coops. The initial investment might be higher, especially when factoring in accessories.
• Limited Size: While suitable for a small flock, the Eglu Cube may feel cramped for larger groups of chickens. Consider the size of your flock before purchasing.
• Plastic Construction: While durable, some chicken owners prefer the aesthetic of wooden coops. The plastic construction of the Eglu Cube might not appeal to everyone.
• Assembly Required: Like many coops, the Eglu Cube requires assembly. While not overly complicated, some owners might find this process a bit time-consuming.
• Run Size: The integrated run may be sufficient for a few chickens, but if you want to give your birds more space to roam, additional runs or fencing might be needed.
• Accessories Cost Extra: Certain accessories, like the insulating jacket or additional runs, are sold separately. This can add to the overall cost of setting up your chicken enclosure.

---

Pros

• Sturdy Construction: Made from durable, UV-resistant plastic. It’s designed to withstand various weather conditions without deteriorating.
• Easy Assembly: This coop features a snap-together design that requires no tools for assembly. It’s a straightforward process that can be completed quickly, making it ideal for those who prefer a hassle-free setup.
• Spacious Interior: The large size of the Formex coop provides ample space for chickens to move around comfortably. It can accommodate several birds, allowing them to perch, nest, and roam without feeling cramped.
• Simple Cleaning: Cleaning the Formex coop is easy due to its removable litter tray and accessible design. The plastic material can be hosed down for thorough cleaning, promoting better hygiene for your chickens.
• Good Ventilation: Proper ventilation is crucial for chicken health, and this coop features ventilation holes and windows to ensure adequate air circulation. This helps prevent respiratory issues and keeps the coop fresh.
• Predator-Resistant: The Formex coop is designed to keep predators out. It features secure latches and sturdy walls that deter predators like raccoons and foxes, providing a safe environment for your chickens.
• Versatile Layout: The coop includes built-in nesting boxes and roosting bars, offering convenience for both chickens and owners. It’s a well-thought-out design that caters to the needs of poultry keepers.

Cons

• Price: The SnapLock Formex Large Chicken Coop tends to be more expensive compared to basic wooden coops. However, its durability and features justify the higher price for many buyers.
• Plastic Aesthetic: Some chicken owners prefer the look of traditional wooden coops. The plastic construction of the Formex coop may not appeal to those seeking a rustic or natural appearance.
• Lack of Customization: Unlike DIY wooden coops, the Formex coop has limited customization options. You’re generally confined to the layout and features it comes with, which may not suit everyone’s preferences.
• Assembly Difficulty: While advertised as easy to assemble, some users may find the snap-together design slightly challenging, especially if the pieces don’t align perfectly during assembly.
• Run Sold Separately: The Formex poultry coop does not come with an attached run, so you’ll need to purchase a separate run or fencing if you want to provide outdoor space for your chickens.

---

Pros

• Spacious Design: The Petsfit Large Chicken Coop provides ample space for chickens to roam and perch comfortably. It features a large living area with multiple levels, including a ramp for easy access.
• Solid Construction: This coop is constructed from sturdy wood with a durable asphalt roof, ensuring protection against the elements. The materials are weather-resistant and designed to withstand outdoor conditions.
• Easy Access and Cleaning: The Petsfit coop is designed for easy maintenance. It has multiple doors and a removable tray for convenient cleaning, making it simple to keep the coop tidy and hygienic.
• Integrated Nesting Box: The coop includes a built-in nesting box, providing a private and secure space for chickens to lay eggs. The box is accessible from outside the coop, making egg collection hassle-free.
• Good Ventilation: Proper ventilation is crucial for chicken health, and the Petsfit coop features ventilation windows and a meshed door to ensure adequate airflow without compromising security.
• Portable and Lightweight: Despite its large size, the Petsfit coop is relatively lightweight and portable. It can be moved around the yard easily if needed, allowing flexibility in placement.
• Versatile Use: In addition to chickens, this coop can also house other small animals such as rabbits or ducks. It offers versatility for those interested in multi-purpose use.

Cons

• Assembly Required: Like many large coops, the Petsfit Large Chicken Coop requires assembly upon delivery. While instructions are provided, some users may find the assembly process time-consuming.
• Limited Insulation: The coop’s design may not provide sufficient insulation in colder climates. Additional measures such as insulating materials or heating devices may be necessary to keep chickens warm during winter.
• Predator Protection: While the coop offers basic predator protection, some users may find the need to reinforce certain areas (e.g., latches, wire mesh) to deter determined predators like raccoons or foxes.
• Run Sold Separately: The Petsfit coop does not come with an attached run. If you want to provide outdoor space for your chickens, you’ll need to purchase a compatible run or fencing separately.
• Size Considerations: While spacious, the Petsfit Large Chicken Coop may be too large for small yards or urban settings. Ensure you have adequate space for the coop before purchasing.
• Wood Maintenance: As with any wooden structure, regular maintenance such as sealing or painting may be required to prolong the life of the coop and protect it from weather damage.

---

Pros

• Spacious Design: The OverEZ Classic Large Chicken Coop provides ample space for chickens to move around, perch, and nest comfortably. It can accommodate several birds without feeling cramped.
• Solid Construction: This coop is built with high-quality materials, including durable wood and sturdy wire mesh. The solid construction ensures durability and protection against the elements.
• Easy Assembly: The OverEZ coop is designed for easy assembly with pre-drilled holes and straightforward instructions. Most users find the assembly process manageable, even with basic DIY skills.
• Convenient Features: The coop includes practical features such as nesting boxes with external access, removable roosting bars, and a sliding window for ventilation control. These features enhance usability and maintenance.
• Good Ventilation: Proper ventilation is crucial for chicken health, and the OverEZ coop is well-ventilated with adjustable windows and mesh openings. It promotes air circulation while keeping predators out.
• Predator Protection: The coop features a predator-resistant design with secure latches and sturdy wire mesh. It provides a safe and secure environment for chickens, offering peace of mind to owners.
• Low Maintenance: The OverEZ coop is designed for easy cleaning and maintenance. It has removable trays and doors that facilitate cleaning, saving time and effort for chicken keepers.

Cons

• Price: The OverEZ Classic Large Chicken Coop is relatively expensive compared to basic wooden coops. The higher price reflects the quality and features of the coop, but it may be a consideration for budget-conscious buyers.
• Size and Placement: Due to its large size, this coop requires ample space in your backyard or garden. Ensure you have enough room for the coop before purchasing.
• Limited Customization: The coop’s design may not allow for extensive customization or modifications. Some users prefer coops that can be tailored to specific needs or preferences.
• Wood Maintenance: Like any wooden structure, the OverEZ coop requires regular maintenance such as sealing or painting to protect against weather damage and extend its lifespan.
• Run Sold Separately: The coop does not come with an attached run. If you want to provide outdoor space for your chickens, you’ll need to purchase a compatible run or fencing separately.
• Assembly Time: While assembly is straightforward, some users may find the process time-consuming, especially if assembling alone or with limited assistance.

---

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Chicken Coop

When selecting the best chicken coop for your needs, consider the following factors:

• Size: Ensure the coop is spacious enough to accommodate your desired number of chickens comfortably.
• Quality: Look for coops made from durable materials that can withstand weather and predators.
• Features: Consider features such as nesting boxes, roosting bars, ventilation, and ease of cleaning.
• Budget: Set a budget that aligns with your preferences and needs.
• Aesthetics: Choose a coop that complements your outdoor space and personal style.

---

Conclusion

Investing in a high-quality chicken coop is essential for the health and well-being of your chickens. Each of the recommended coops offers unique features and benefits to suit different preferences and budgets. Before making a purchase, carefully assess your requirements. Compare options to find the best chicken coop that will meet your needs for years to come. Find more chicken coops to consider here. Happy chicken keeping!

---

Affiliate Disclaimer: all items on this page are from a third party. When you click and purchase from this page to any of the links here, you will be taken to the third-party business. If you purchase from this company through the link I will receive a small commission from your purchase. You will not be charged any extra for that commission. However, the commission I earn when you purchase will go towards keeping this site up and running, and help with any purchases made for products that I may purchase to review on this site. Read the full Affiliate Disclaimer here.