Why Zen Habitats reptile enclosures aren't worth the money

This 120 gallon reptile setup is one of the available enclosures sold by Zen Habitats and they sent me one over to make some videos on! They have a great story, nice website and very friendly staff. However, it's only fair to give you my honest thoughts on their products. Maybe I had bad luck, or maybe this represents all of their enclosures but either way, my verdict is they are not worth the money. Learn why in this video!
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[@GoHerping]

I gave it a shot but I'm underwhelmed! Maybe I got a "defective" enclosure? Or maybe I assembled it incorrectly? (I did put the screen on upside down lol) I emailed them and will happily follow up if there were mistakes on either end. If so, maybe another review will be on the way. Regardless, here's my affiliate link! www.zenhabitats.com/?aff=24

[@Type-o-negative]

Love your vids :)💖

[@blackberryp2202]

Okay

[@ericsparkman3645]

I have one and the build quality is so cheap, I’m disappointed

[@deannaknezevich2126]

Hi

[@jurassicparkreptiles1816]

Ok

[@Workof]

"Which one do you want" "The most expensive one" Thats a businessman speaking

[@hilljack2yackie]

And than he gets a bamboo one not a pvc one?

[@MisplacedPixie]

@@hilljack2yackie bamboo? Oops. Bamboo LAMINATE

[@heysaucemikehere1804]

@@hilljack2yackie I feel like the bamboo one would be more expensive. Maybe not, because they do paint the pvc one to look like bamboo, if I remember correctly

[@Beadorie1207]

@@hilljack2yackie all of the ones on their site are the same material, but they didn't even send him the most expensive lolz

[@hilljack2yackie]

@@heysaucemikehere1804 the PVC is more expensive and yes it’s print is bamboo

[@rat630]

I have surgery tomorrow so I’m gonna do the responsible thing and stay up all night rewatching GoHerping videos

[@GoHerping]

good luck

[@travisevans6475]

@@GoHerping your such a kind, down to earth creator. Thank you for caring about your fans!

[@MsAngrybutterfly]

I had to have surgery and threw myself a little all night 80's movie festival the night before and, it's honestly a good idea because it's too hard to sleep the night before anyway, good luck!

[@dexis9412]

At least it will make it easier to stay asleep during the surgery. Honestly a smart thing to do

[@sburge1989]

Plot Twist: Jessie is the surgeon not the patient.

[@HaasioArt]

Alex's upload schedule is the definition of chaotic neutral

[@chrishovnanian3114]

Lol I know

[@jurassicparkreptiles1816]

Yeah

[@DaydreamingDrawings]

Yeah

[@GoHerping]

Its better to wait for certain hours but I get excited and want to upload asap lol

[@jurassicparkreptiles1816]

@@GoHerping ok

[@bluetinynewt4800]

Lmao they ain’t never sending him anything ever again

[@hilljack2yackie]

He’s not missing out.

[@rosevampire3755]

Honestly he’s stuck lucky then. 😂

[@GoHerping]

@@breakthemould4611 I definitely wouldn't suggest anyone to sign a sponsorship agreement unless you have stake in the company

[@jurassicparkreptiles1816]

@@GoHerping lol

[@GoHerping]

@@Adulting_Autistic and mislead my viewers?

[@keriscritters9762]

I honestly live for your awkwardness

[@jurassicparkreptiles1816]

Lol same

[@GoHerping]

i live my awkwardness

[@HaasioArt]

Oh that's a mood

[@keriscritters9762]

@@GoHerping it's beautiful

[@sammyavery9927]

Mood

[@itssalmon3334]

I can’t tell if this is a terrible enclosure or ur a terrible craftsman lmao

[@GoHerping]

the answer definitely isn't neither

[@crowdemon_archives]

Both.

[@ashleecaraveo2831]

Terrible craftsman and in this video obnoxious. I'm not affiliated with Zen Habitats, but most DIY builds to this scale, are ugly or not cheap anyway without proper tools. No big deal if one does not care if a habitat fits in with the rest of the home vibe or esthetics, but many do. Seems to me overall the product is a great option, if that is what a customer is going for. I think also unprofessional to not even do a little bit of research on a gifted product review, before assembling and not taking the build even remotely seriously. Didn't even take into consideration (until end of the video) the whole package deal, for example...free shipping. Other products may cost less, but to ship total cost is the same or more... or not even available to a walk in customer for the area.

[@elvingearmasterirma7241]

@@ashleecaraveo2831 Apparently others who have these things aren't pleased with their products. And their reviews are misleading apparently, cherry picked. Things aren't sturdy, security issues, wobbly stacking things. The English word escapes me. So, I guess. Just build your own without buying their stupid shit. Price isn't worth the crap quality.

[@sagew1312]

@@ashleecaraveo2831 they're not as good as you think tbh.

[@JosuesExotics]

I’ve been wondering about these enclosures for a while. They have became kinda popular in the hobby now.

[@GoHerping]

the power of an influencer swarm

[@__TK__23]

I would check out reptile kages. I bought one for my northern blue tongue and love it, was simple to set up and looks great.

[@sydneys2859]

I had a similar thought but the people I did see reviewing them tended to have a filter on them (as in easily bought)

[@nobody1575]

I actually Really like mine, Some complaints of mine is the sticky tape they provide is garbage and my bamboo slides at the corners were kinda .. scrunched? VERY HARD for me to put together but now that its assembled I like it.

[@neptunezilla]

Yes I heard something about these

[@AverytheCubanAmerican]

Well I'm glad you're honest about it. The truth will set you free

[@Z31HoodMoments]

@JAMES FARIA the bio says “I’m basically the Cuban Justin Y.” So it’s not surprising

[@woobeewooo]

He's not sponsored tho

[@bratatouille]

Yeah, set him free of free PR

[@durpyislost6212]

"but first it will piss you off"

[@avagutierrez6461]

Alex: I hate putting things together also Alex: has done multiple videos assembling legos me just realizing that: excuse me wut?

[@jurassicparkreptiles1816]

Lol

[@ZebrasAreAwesome011]

Wait u right wtf... how did that happen 🤔

[@bigsam8597]

_Because Legos, are an art, you can have it be whatever you want it to be. With Legos, Your imagination can run wild an free, like a majestic stallion._ Also, legos come with thorough instructions.

[@bijoohere568]

To be HONEST most enclosures are overhyped and overpriced when you can do a better job yourself realistically for half the cost. Edit: He was spot on with how much it cost to make too about $100 bucks at most but charge $350+ for a cheap experience. Not even stackable. The reviews are just so misleading

[@alysani0193]

Agreed. I got a reptile tank for free and couldn't find a lid that fit the specifications, my brother and I built the most sturdy mesh lid ever for half the price of a screen lid off amazon.

[@maxie1199]

For real. I made a 16 tub rack for under 250, I see similar made of cheaper materials go for almost a thousand. People really need to learn to DIY if you want to be serious in this hobby

[@bijoohere568]

@@maxie1199 Not only that but just use common sense. I have a 4x2x2 for my juvenile female tegu. I did buy it from a company LLL reptile which was $250. I understand profit and I think reasonably 250 is not bad for a thick material,one piece, heat and uvb bulb sockets included (not needed to add on for extra cost like a lot of places), stackable enclosure. Which is $100 less than this and is able to be low and high humidity since there is no top screen and can open and close back vents.. Meanwhile you can blow on this too hard and it would fall apart. Made a 6x2x2 for a BRB female for 100 bucks and made it stackable myself. The more we stop letting ourselves get ripped off the sooner they will stop doing this.

[@scout1710]

Yup, I made a much larger enclosure for 100 bucks

[@hilljack2yackie]

I didn’t even put a review because they won’t post mine lol

[@QueenFragg]

You can tell he isn’t being bribed because the review is negative. At least we know he’s honest.

[@piperatoms5926]

Shots FIRED! 🔥 I love this fucking kid. He always tells it like it is.

[@saltrush3448]

@thecasualtrollingpuma by a rival enclosure manufacturer

[@cadenbrown7407]

@@piperatoms5926 Zen habitats are actually pretty great, i’m getting one it’s awesome.

[@piperatoms5926]

@Caden Brown Im sure they work, just over priced and over hyped.

[@johndoe3563]

He's the worst reptile KZbinr out there.

[@Brinta3]

Maybe Ikea should get in the business of selling flat package terrariums. They would probably do an amazing job for a reasonable price.

[@bmacfannn]

Ohhhh this 100%! Even the style of this screams IKEA.

[@plant2188]

Yeah, Ive seen many people use ikea products to DIY their own enclosures

[@saacinecrozma8317]

"It definitely seems to be directed towards bearded dragons. There's actually a beardie right here..." Oh, there's probably a picture on the instructions somewhere-- *picks up beardie* I... really should have seen that coming, given what channel I'm watching

[@Bearywhite2]

I wasnt looking at the video so thats what i thought it was until i saw your comment and went back lmao

[@th-is8qi]

Exactly what I thought 😂

[@bigsam8597]

The creators of Zen Habitats first created Zen because they were trying to build the perfect enclosure for their pet bearded dragon.

[@sleepyfoxyYT]

To be blunt.. I could make a better terrarium from random crap I find at Walmart. It's also kinda sus that they don't seem to have honest reviews

[@GoHerping]

That would be a funny sequel vid

[@michellejensen9580]

Yes definitely sus. Probably removed all the bad ones so they can sell more.

[@lindsaybrcht]

@@GoHerping do it

[@milkshake2659]

Honestly my Walmart had a good selection of pet/reptile supplies.

[@mydogfreya487]

@@michellejensen9580 I agree. They had a few negative reviews on Amazon and they no longer sell the product on there. I bought one before seeing this because it is cheaper than Carolina and Zoomed. It is about $200 less for an equivalent size from either brand. Hopefully I’ll have better luck putting it together. The company should honestly answer him regarding his concerns so he can do a follow up video but they are likely to just take offense.

[@ColdBloodedCare]

Looking at the prices i can most definitely build something with half the cost! What seeming odd about it is that it seems like the "laminate" they use wouldn't hold up to just a little moisture and would begin to rot after a while.

[@arrow-child]

they have wood printed PVC options (vs. the bamboo laminate)... they definitely didn't send alex the most expensive item like he asked for.

[@littlekitsune1]

@@arrow-child They might have, but that means their stuff is bad, so either option sucks...

[@kms1011]

Yeah it seems like you'd need a lining on the inside to prevent from shit falling in between the cracks and water/humidity disintegrating the "bamboo"

[@heysaucemikehere1804]

It most likely wouldn’t hold up, that’s why they made a pvc option. I’d still recommend just making your own, it’s cheaper and more fun!

[@arrow-child]

@@kms1011 Yeah they sell those separately too. I appreciate Alex's review though, it's definitely helped me cross Zen Habitats off my list, the stuff looks hella flimsy

[@henrystickman1651]

I was going to get a zen encloser over the exo terra but I think I'm going to get a exo terra now thanks also thanks for not lying and being truthful about the product and not lying

[@GoHerping]

they're very different but exo terra has a lot of nice features

[@henrystickman1651]

Thanks for responding love you videos

[@DraconisMarchVII]

Also for being truthful.

[@aerotaken5357]

I bought skittles enclosure from Carolina Custom Cages and couldn't be happier. Its a solidly built, easy to assemble enclosure. Its all glass so its fairly heavy. And the metal top has no sharp edges lol. They sell and ship through Amazon, but you can search on their website to see all their options. They do a good job of keeping Amazon stocked so if its unavailable at the moment they'll get it restocked soon.

[@crazyboysnakes1019]

I enjoy my zen habitat quite a bit

[@ZoeBellCake]

omg, watching the struggle of ripping that paper off was pissing ME off lol

[@oz121]

Do I have school in 5 hours? Yes. Am I sleeping? No. I'm watching a man put together a Zen habitat enclosure

[@LC-se8pw]

"watching someone get cut tf up by a Zen Enclosure"

[@Idk-ik1gt]

Same and proud

[@jurassicparkreptiles1816]

Same

[@aardfay]

your school has no business being open in the first place

[@jurassicparkreptiles1816]

@@aardfay maybe online school

[@elizabethgreenhill8129]

I was just like "is that a kitten cat?" Then I was like " is that two kitten cats? " then I was like " is that three kitten cats? "

[@kellyplude8790]

lol when he opened the door and 3 cats came walking out i was like how many cats does he got in there lmao

[@moxyshock]

I'm going to start calling cats kitten cats now.❤

[@b.d.k.5370]

I literally was thinking that, along with "Why is he trying to get something done with 3 cats in the enclosure with him?"

[@cryptid-king]

It was kinda like a clown car lmao they just kept coming

[@Tink00]

They were so helpful ^.^

[@helenr695]

I actually have that exact cage for my beardie. I dont know if i just got lucky but i got it awhile ago and i have loved it so far. I really like how light it was to move. I got it because I liked the size and that there were 3 sides of solid material instead of all clear. I think it makes it feel more secure. I love the look of the cage and it easy to clean. I had no problems with the assembly and it was fairly easy and quick. Everything fit, it shipped well, the paper easily came off the acrylic in one piece, i had no problems with the board chipping, all the plastic corner connectors fit perfectly, and mine is way sturdier and doesnt rattle like his. overall maybe i just got lucky but my beardie seems very happy in it and I really like it. It was kind of pricey but still cheaper than other cages of that size. Also i think i got mine on sale. I would have built my own but i bought this on an impulse and I dont really regret it. Thats my two cents if it helps anyone :)

[@lemonlizard1]

I totally agree. Same experience as you :)

[@Viper57546]

Same here I have several and the amount of weight it can hold sheesh it’s actually better this way because you can disassemble it if you ever need to move

[@AzraelArius]

I just bought one and put it together yesterday, they changed the paper to be a clear easier to peel plastic and it's pretty simple to put together with just a wooden mallet. the size is wonderful and my beardie loves all the space, plus with payment plans it's easier to get one and play it off over time if you need to!

[@drew1427]

I got one for my bluetongue and i love it . I had to use a rubber mallet to put it together but other then that it wasnt too bad then again i got the pvc version so the sidings i didnt have a issue with. Edit: yikes looks like you got a pretty bad one mine went together pretty nice and its mot wobbly much at all? And yhe holes for my windows were the right size lol

[@Hunter_Houck]

@@lilly-rk3rv eww

[@hilljack2yackie]

Mine is pvc too. Great for a blue tongue...... terrible for a baby snake

[@heysaucemikehere1804]

@@lilly-rk3rv dude, what?

[@heysaucemikehere1804]

@@lilly-rk3rv it was really random and unnecessary

[@daddydoot2353]

@@lilly-rk3rv why.. Does that matter???

[@MisplacedPixie]

The problem with sending an item for review to an HONEST person is that you'll wind up with that pesky element of TRUTH rather than the sticky treacle of ego stroking that the company may have been wanting and expecting.

[@FalconOfStorms]

I told you I'm seeing a doctor about my sticky treacle.

[@misslovercssa]

Lol the cats and Alex all inside the cage😂

[@loniedupre88]

Man they're gonna ask for the thing back after this video lol

[@jamieisnotokay3298]

Something tells me he doesn't want it lol.

[@sarahwilson7558]

I was just thinking the other day why doesn’t go herping ever get free stuff like the other youtubers. Oh that’s why 😂

[@hilljack2yackie]

🤣

[@surtu9221]

He's not the friendliest person in the world XD. If you're going to ask him to review something it had better be a damn good product, because he doesn't get excited for anything less XD

[@FFPKennedyLea]

Saw "Zen" in the title, thought it might be good to listen too while I was falling asleep. I was wrong.

[@b.a.shaski3550]

I've been really surprised to see these keep popping up because they just don't look like good enclosures to me :/ I'm glad I'm not alone... I'll be honest and say that I'm a snake person, and requirements for reptiles vary so maybe I just don't get it but I wouldn't want any of my snakes in this thing. The Bamboo composite just seems like it would warp, chip, and bubble when exposed to high humidity, spills, and urine. The metal pieces along each edge and the substrate blocker all have gaps and grooves that could trap loose substrate and bacteria. The sliding doors seem like they could also pose hazards for accidentally catching on substrate, decor, and reptile limbs. The open screen top makes me nervous with all my snakes needing pretty high humidity. I realize it could be altered to keep moisture in more efficiently but why would I spent $320 on something I need to alter? I like smooth plastic enclosures that are easy to fully wipe down and disinfect if need be, hold humidity well, and are much cheaper or equivalent in price to this. Just my two cents and thank you for this review!

[@bjam89]

Yeah as a bird owner all i could think was hope reptiles never ever spill water

[@hilljack2yackie]

They have a pvc bamboo one cuz I purchased it.... those gaps are not in mine, it comes with a thing to put on the top yet let enough room for 2 overhead heat lamps , it’s way too expensive and I wouldn’t recommend it to anyone else for a snake. I bought it for my baby boa constrictor (not this same one cuz mine is PVC) and I can fit my pointer finger in between the sliding doors without hassle...... meaning she can fit her tiny little body through the gap. We had to use weather stripping to close the gap. Needless to say after spending so much money I wasn’t impressed by that

[@bjam89]

@@hilljack2yackie any idea why they have the plywood cage? It dont seem safe

[@hilljack2yackie]

@@bjam89 for smaller reptiles.

[@littlekitsune1]

Honestly I don't own reptiles so I'm not a first hand expert, but you took the words right out of my mouth. The enclosure looks nice but that's about it. I wouldn't expect it to hold an animal long term. Looks like a bacteria death trap and like it would warp or rot really quickly.

[@MRK152d]

do i currently own any reptiles? no. do i plan on it? maybe. have i watched every one of his videos and know how to take care of multiple different reptiles? yes.

[@SpringtailsUS]

thats how it starts lol

[@MRK152d]

@@carisoul2180 of course :)

[@beans5738]

Rubbing alcohol will get that paper off easy

[@feez357]

Exactly! Maybe even warm water. A warm room might even help. He made this and all the other quirks harder than necessary.

[@feez357]

@ॐ गणेश ॐ No, it was doomed from the start. Read the damn directions and use as little force as possible. He hated the thing from the start. Probably had the wrong screws.

[@crunchy1414]

Totally but it shouldn’t be a problem in the first place, the paper should be easy to come off

[@beans5738]

@@feez357 did you *see* it?

[@psybird2641]

@@feez357 he used the screws that were included with the kit.

[@nebuloranebuflora470]

Reptile man: “I hate assembling things” Also reptile man: Aw hell yeah more legos

[@Santaclau5e]

The sound of the metal rubbing together scared my dog and he ran into a wall 😂😂😂

[@emilyvalera5131]

just spray the acrylic with water and the paper should come off with a sponge when rubbed

[@tdexotics2532]

My exact thoughts

[@scoobsmcdoo3471]

Funnily enough, that'll take the bamboo veneer off the other sides too 🤣

[@rosanna9479]

I like how nicely you handled this! You were honest and transparent with the viewers but gave the company a benefit of the doubt in their products.

[@reptilesfishandmore]

I really liked my Zen Habitat. I didn't think the price was too bad for the size and quality of the cage itself, I got mine on sale. I used a video to build mine since the instructions kinda sucked. It's way easier to assemble this if you have 2 people though. i didn't buy a substrate liner either, i just used something else as a liner and my enclosure has been fine! The fact the screws didn't fit makes me think your cage may be defective, I didn't have any issues with mine.

[@Woodpeckerslol]

As someone else has said, your good background noise, you'll just be mine for reading and doing homework.

[@jimk525]

I had a completely opposite experience. Got the 4x2x2 PVC enclosure. It came quickly and was in perfect condition, the instruction video on youtube was easy to follow, and I had it completely put together in less than an hour. My ball Python loves it. One negative....it was a pain to get the paper off the sliding doors. Probably took 20 minutes of the hour assembly time.

[@lmja5046]

I love my Zen habitat enclosure. I have the PVC for my 4’ Adult Ball Python. If you take your time and put a little serious effort into it, it goes together nicely.

[@hamster0_022]

“The most expensive one”- Alex getting his money’s worth

[@snowballil3133]

I think it is defective, it looks like it was returned.

[@bayleaf666]

It's the lil frog hop for meee lol. Hope you and Alice are doing well and settling in well :)

[@ssjavier]

Zen Habitat: Gives 400$ enclosure to get some good press. GoHerping: NOT WORTH IT! haha definition to staying true to himself this is why I love GOHERPING never afraid to tell the truth!!

[@MisterTeckT]

yeah but he made it look so difficult...I just put mine up with no problems.

[@wolf-rayetlaw7004]

i bought their 4'2'2' PVC enclosure for my ball python recently (after her sterilite tub got a tiny crack in it and she managed to escape... thus the new cage) and i feel mostly positive about it. my only real gripes are with one of my door handles being loose & that i have to currently lead my thermostat probes in-between the sliding doors since i can't use the wire grommet. my BP is a very active snake who loves to climb... she could definitely get out through the wire grommet & would probably hurt herself trying. to be fair to zen habitats though, they do mention that the wire grommet isn't good to use when you have a snake, so i should've prepared for that. i'm probably going to end up having to cut some holes into the wire mesh for my probes at some point which'll be a pain since the mesh is pretty strong. i get the feeling you had some sort of miscommunication with them or they made a mistake since they didn't send you the actual PVC enclosure. mine came with the substrate shield & the acrylic humidity shield. i didn't have to buy them separately or make any note of it in my order. i didn't have any issues with the paper sticking to the acrylic as i pulled it off either, so i think you might've just gotten unlucky there (or i got lucky, could go either way lol). the "wood" panels for mine are the actual PVC panels that just have a woodgrain pattern on them, so they don't flake. they're just a solid wall. they do have just a liiiiittle bit of wiggle room when put into place, but it's really not enough to be of concern to me. fortunately my snake is big enough where she can't fit in-between the sliding doors (she's about 5.5 months old, ~230 grams) though she definitely tries sometimes, lol... definitely an issue for a smaller snake. i only made a few minor errors assembling it (i followed the video on their site from start to finish) but it's pretty sturdy once it's all put together. it holds heat & humidity perfectly with the acrylic shield on top, but i did add some aluminum foil to a bit more of it since i'm paranoid about my BP's humidity (she specifically needs a *minimum* of 70% humidity. she had a bad shed recently while it was being allowed to dip into the 60% range) so maybe the humidity shield on it's own isn't as good. idk. not willing to test that out since i live where the winters are bitterly cold (like a -10F dip cold) and very dry, but maybe someone else is... that said, i'm pretty happy with mine. maybe my mind'll change after i try and deep-clean it for the first time but right now, it does what i needed it to, it's big and it looks pretty nice, plus it was cheap for a PVC cage. i'm aware assembling one yourself is... sometimes cheaper, but from what i found while researching, it was negligible. the price was the main reason i bought mine since the shipping was free. i spent a long time comparing prices specifically for 4'2'2' PVCs, and zen's was the cheapest when shipping was taken into consideration.

[@moonflesh]

Hi!! Whats your opinion on it 10 months later? What was deep cleaning it like ?

[@wolf-rayetlaw7004]

@@moonflesh i still think it's alright. i'm probably going to move my ball python out of it at some point in the future and reuse it for a more arid species, though. reasons being, my ball python looks a bit big in there now, and also if you pour water into the substrate and don't have the floor of the enclosure sealed with something like aquarium-safe silicone, it can leak out of the corners since it's hard to get them 100% airtight, but that's only a problem if you have a species with higher humidity needs (like a BP) or if you're bioactive (like i am now) and you have plants to water. i did have to seal it up with silicone which was pretty annoying, but it was easy to clean at least. i don't think these issues would arise for a more arid species, though, which i believe the enclosure is specifically catered towards seeing as it has a screen top & i mostly see people using zen's 4x2x2 for their bearded dragons. i still think it's a good enclosure; i just don't think it's ideal for a high humidity herp.

[@CentipedeGuy]

Me: oh my gosh finally finished my homework, I need to sleep it’s almost midnight. Alex: Posts video Me: woke

[@jurassicparkreptiles1816]

Lol

[@bentleysoup]

And then there’s me who is still working on homework while watching this...

[@marjoriedg]

Alex: I don’t like assembling things. Also Alex: posts a full video on LEGOs.

[@ariel2722]

i love that you get a kick back from them with a link but were still honest in your review 10/10 thank u

[@summerhousley]

See he always says his opinion and never click baits he is a good youtuber

[@Dreamkiller48]

“They were like ‘which one?’ And I was like ‘The most expenzsivest’” *B U S I N E S S*

[@en-gene2361]

I bought one back in I think April for my beardie. Now that I’ve had it for a while, it really isn’t what I was expecting. Took a long long time to build, and it’s hard to clean when my lizard makes a mess in it. Overall kinda bitter I spent the money but I needed to get him a bigger tank

[@PatrickGreen44]

Would you recommend it?

[@dyoung0847]

@@PatrickGreen44 I would if that matters

[@PatrickGreen44]

@@dyoung0847 okay thanks!

[@callicat704]

Reptile Kages are better imo

[@dyoung0847]

@@callicat704 they are also significantly more expensive

[@pegiegault5931]

Ok. I've waited three months for my enclosure as it was on back order. I can't finish putting it together because I broke two plastic pieces inside the metal rail. They sent me replacement pieces that are touring the US as we speak. The video is not correct for instruction. Most pieces were not labelled, and the paper on the door pieces is a nightmare to get off! I like the look and feel of it so far. But my lizard is still waiting for the parts to actually use it. Sad mom. My box also came destroyed and taped everywhere. Packaging should be addressed. Keep your fingers crossed that my parts arrive after their week of traveling.

[@dalayneejo]

as someone who plans on owning reptiles in the future (currently own one axolotl), THANK YOU FOR POSTING THIS! even if you got a ‘defective product’, the fact that they didn’t (or didn’t care enough to ensure the quality) repeatedly check the product they send to an influencer who is most likely doing a review.

[@GoHerping]

I wouldn't have minded them doing a quality check on mine, it's not abnormal to do

[@dalayneejo]

@@GoHerping totally agree, but it’s pretty clear they didn’t :/

[@JumpingMagikarp]

I recently bought and assembled this enclosure for my beardie and have to say I have had a really positive experience with it. The pieces fit perfectly for me, I didn't really have any problems when setting it up. The bars on the top of the enclosure go on the inside, and they hold up the UVB bar so it isn't blocked by the top like other enclosures with a flat top. It also keeps heat in really well, as well as low humidity. I do get that the price can be steep, but I don't mind since I know I can stack enclosures down the line or get storage units that fit perfectly. It's great for if you plan to get more pets down the road.

[@demetrisharrow5800]

The beginning of the video: *slaps enclosure* Me: "This baby can fit so many leopard geckos!"

[@PoppingCrowns]

If you haven’t purchased from Animal Plastics before, try them. They’re incredible. Comparable price, but from what I saw in this video, the quality is superior. Sturdy. Light. And easy to put together.

[@animalswithadamaris3381]

Animal Plastics is hands down the best one out there honestly. I've gotten a few brands and price wise and quality wise they are 1000% it just takes forever to get your stuff because literally everyone orders from them. xD

[@PoppingCrowns]

@@animalswithadamaris3381 it’s so worth the wait, though!

[@SteveHarrington.]

Do you have a recommended cage for a bearded dragon ?

[@michelletran1039]

I just bought one of these and I am hoping you just assembled it wrong. The company is well-known for their superior customer support so I think you can find a lot of help from them. Their fan page on FB is also very welcoming and inclusive. Even the negative feedback is responded to appropriately. I really hope yours is just a fluke and I didn’t just waste half a grand on this. 😭 Shipping is included btw

[@ashleyselman1304]

For my ball python I was trying to choose between a Zen habitat, a boaphile, and a animals plastics enclosure and I went with boaphile and I really enjoy it but I think next time I'm going to go with animal plastics And I know now not to gets zen habitats I've been a bit iffy about them for a while just because they enclosures looked flimsy but I've never seen a video of anybody showing it but now I know

[@courtneyhatch9648]

I'm glad that this is a more in depth review than Clint. It does look very cheaply made. Thank you for this insight.

[@Tea4tia22]

I just got one a few days before this and I definitely didn’t have as hard of a time. I recommend anyone who gets it to watch the whole assembly video before starting! A lot of the issues he had could have easily been avoided. I agree that it’s a bit pricey for the materials, but for someone who wants a big enclosure and doesn’t have the time or interest to do it themselves, it’s a good option. Also the doorknobs do fit if you just use a screwdriver. It screws into the plexi. And for the paper, lay the plexi flat and pull straight upward. I got most of them off in one piece that way. Anyway love ur videos and I’m glad you were honest with your experience!

[@Manuel_Pa]

What bothers me the most with this enclosure is the substrate barrier. Why didn't they just put it in BELOW the sliding doors like most other terraria? Looks kinda stupid and is unpractical. Also, I'ts not moisture proof at all. You still have to get in there with a ton of epoxy. Just build your own wooden terrarium, it's cheaper, relatively easy and you can adapt it the way you want

[@critterc0rner]

The fact alone that you have to pay for the substrate barrier without it being included for free is stupid. If I have to pay over $500-600AUD for a 4x2x2 I better get free extras.

[@camerongrimes715]

I like that you were honest and not easily bribed. This is the first less than ecstatic review I have seen.

[@dwerk3]

How awful. Particle board junk. Wait til it bows out, if this wasn't bad enough already lol

[@sofiaolsen1068]

I got this tank for my beardie and it worked well for me! It was pretty easy to set up and my beardie hasn’t scratched the acrylic much especially cause he can only reach the substrate shield on the bottom. I’d recommend it. But yeah, expensive.

[@tinaleighton6390]

You probably were a little more careful and patient when you set yours up. I think these are decent enclosures. Yes they are expensive but all the enclosures out there are expensive. I definitely wouldn’t base someone’s decision about this enclosure on this video alone.

[@ashleecaraveo2831]

​@@tinaleighton6390 Exactly. Terrible craftsman even at a beginner level and this video is obnoxious from the start dragging the box from the garage...up the stairs...need I go on?! I'm not even as annoyed with him as I am with the "supportive follower comments" on how great this video was. I think also unprofessional to not even do a little bit of research on a gifted product review, before assembling and not taking the build even remotely seriously. Didn't even take into consideration (until end of the video) the whole package deal, for example...free shipping. Other products may cost less (not look as nice or just another ugly DIY), but to ship total cost is the same or more... or not even available to a walk in customer for the area.

[@sofiaolsen1068]

I wasn’t trying to dig on goherping lol but yeah there’s video instructions on the website to help set it up

[@mikeymike1994]

I just finished putting together the Zen 4x2x2 and an expander. I intend to double stack another set of the same on top. They are expensive, no doubt. And if you have the space, skills and tools, you can build something just as good or better. But, you won't do it in an hour, in your living room, with nothing but a mallet and a screwdriver. So, I guess it depends on your skills, time, wallet and commitment! I'm satisfied with the purchase. And, you def have to peel that acrylic protective layer off slowly and carefully!

[@ivo2345]

Alex is the reason we know the actual quality of those enclosures. I actually thought about getting one but... I guess not anymore lmao. Thanks Alex.

[@FaqoOG]

He waaaayyyy over exaggerates as the main assembly isn't difficult. The instance of wrong in the assembly is human error.

[@leahgorelik9262]

I was just considering purchasing 3 because I can't find a decent size exo terra above 50 gallons. Thank you for the honesty.

[@Freytraz]

The enclosures never seemed like the sturdiest or the most well thought, but it seems that user error was quite strong in this particular instalment.....

[@BexlarsIRL]

Yeah, saying that a product doesn't fit together well and is flimsy etc. when you've taken zero time to lay everything out and just spend ages wacking the shit out of it with a rubber mallet is kinda a little backwards.

[@xplicitmentality]

It's a good thing you man handled it and broke the corner. Now I know it is particle board and that thin, I will not get one. I was eyeing it for a long time. Thanks you saved me some money.

[@SupremeLeaderKimJong-un]

I mean obviously we make superior reptile enclosures

[@HarlowBrent]

I just got one of these, watched a tutorial about how to put together the specific size I got, and boom, it works great. (I just wished they included an actual paper or something about how to put it together)Messed up one or two times, but that’s not the fault of the seller, but the fault of me. My snake loves it so far, and it’s amazing compared to the plastic tub I had to keep her in. I was completely broke at the time, didn’t have enough money for a full on terrarium, but I was able to afford heating pads, hides, bedding, a humidity hide, and a water dish, as well as one or two rocks and plastic plants to help her shed. But now I can see her happy with plenty of space, and I can easily look in to see if anything is wrong and immediately help.

[@Popedishsoap]

“I don’t know why it’s not fitting together like it was”, he says, after hammering it together AND apart AND TOGETHER AGAIN with a genuine mallet

[@GoHerping]

it said to use a mallet 🤷

[@Popedishsoap]

@@GoHerping there was no hope to begin with then, dang 😩 the stickers on the acrylic did me in, it feels like they were pranking you with how hard it is to peel! (Although they probably knew with that convenient tutorial editing 😂)

[@iFloaty]

Best ASMR video out there

[@NonsensicalTrickster]

I'm here to watch a man hammer together a Zen Enclosure and nothing else.

[@alimorrow1198]

I figured when I saw on Zen Habitats' FAQ section of their website that they "manufacture and package overseas" that they would be cheap pieces of crap but I am glad that I actually got to see it in this video. Thank you!

[@FaqoOG]

He waaaayyyy over exaggerates as the main assembly isn't difficult. The instance of wrong in the assembly is human error.

[@ThePhantomofFilm]

I love my Zen habitat. I got the one with the pvc panels. Its sturdy, was super easy to put together an holds temperature well.

[@GoHerping]

that's good, maybe I got unlucky

[@bobbywalker808]

I have a pvc 4x4x2 on the way. I hope it’s sturdy. I’m waiting to see quality and sturdiness before I order a stand.

[@melissae.8031]

Approximately 2'x4'x2' repurposed coffee table to cage enclosure for (usually under $100). I bought a used coffee table for under 40 dollars (glass top, solid wood structure, and chipboard laminated magazine shelf(I dropped it down a few inches from the bottom as the flooring)). Add plexiglass and a few quarter piece dowel cuts on the inside of the enclosure, and drill airflow holes at the top of at least the sides every inch or so .....it's actually pretty easy and effective, and can be used anywhere in your home. This is just a basic idea that we used...a few other additions may/will be necessary depending on your reptile husbandry requirements....I made mine for about 85$ ten years ago and only the bottom has needed to be replaced for about 20 dollars (I used cement board over the particle board and then good laminate). It's a pretty simple diy and ten years ago, the same premade design went for 1k-1500 easy. Im sure it's cheaper now but it's way cheaper of u have very basic building skills

[@Julian-tn4lp]

I’ve got the PVC one, and it’s pretty damn great. It’s pretty steady and looks amazing. People are saying that they can build a “better” one for $100, but I’m pretty sure it probably looks pretty ugly and DIY (Be realistic). This is a beautiful enclosure and it’s functional with the support bars and the small goodies. Just a perspective from someone who’s had a positive experience with it.

[@ImToxii]

I made a custom viv around that size for like $150 and its sooo much better than that thing in all the ways. Thank you for being honest and not selling out for free stuff!

[@alex5601]

Imagine being the marketing guy of Zen Habitats, sending a 350$ enclosure to Alex and get this video 😂😂 bet he is pissed af now 😂😂😂

[@tigerlilly1280]

Hopefully instead of being pissed they appreciate an honest review and improve their product! But based on what he said about other channels giving it a good review I have the feeling they just pay people for good reviews ..

[@alex5601]

@@tigerlilly1280 I mean you are not wrong, but I work at the Marketing department of a company. I can tell you that I wouldn't be amused about this review and here is why: Alex sais he thinks it's maybe a faulty production because of the doorknobs not fitting, but didn't reach out to them before uploading the video. Yes, they just sended him the enclosure and didn't pay him, but it just would be fair for both sides, if he would have reached out earlier, asked them about the knobs, about the bambus that already chipped and other things that went wrong and upload it with their statement.

[@LanceCamYT]

I don’t even own any reptiles (anymore sadly) but I still love this channel and watch all the vids

[@becksbeard1774]

Damn. Had my heart set on one of these for a blue tongue skink. Might go in a different direction now.

[@Kenzi-q2m]

Your videos are so funny! They always make my day :)

[@calebyektiurip]

alternate title: Alex beating a square thingy with a mallet

[@kellbell1604]

I really like the 4x2X2 we got. It was easy to put together watching the video link they sent me in our email confirmation after we ordered. We didn’t have any issues getting paper off or with damaged edges. One door knob was loose but we put some glue on the screw and it was fine. It looks really nice in our tv room upstairs. And our bearded dragon has a lot more space than she did in the tank she came to us in. She doesn’t glass surf anymore. And I would definitely buy from them again.

[@DeepSeaEnd27]

I actually made my own Bearded Dragon's enclosure out of just plexiglass,wood and chicken wire. It's the same size as the one in the video and the materials to make it cost about 1/3 of the price of a terrarium at my local pet store

[@bionicmonkey25]

Can't comment on why you think the paneling is not good enough, but I just watched the assembly video on their website and had the thing together in about 5 minutes. It was perfect, no problems. Seems more than sturdy enough for a non-bioactive enclosure. I've had exoterras and homemade systems, and yeah 350 may be a little steep, but it went together well and it looks good. I like mine.

[@TEAMRIZEOFFICIAL]

You've been such an inspiration to me for reptiles that ive started uploading reptile videos myself on my own channel! Thank you so much for all the content! You're the man alex! Pop on over to see for yourself sometime if you'd like. Uploading a bearded dragon DIY outfit video soon! And my own beardie set up and care guide as well. Already have done so for leopard geckos! Again Thank you for the inspiration! Love your stuff, been a sub for a few years now.

[@RIZECYN]

Hey! I dropped a sub! You have some awesome content!! And same ive been subbed to Alex for a long time.

[@AAssassinAlliance]

Yooooo i love your videos i subbed too! You have a new fan! Cnt wait 4 the beardie videos! And agreed as well I enjoy goherping

[@AAssassinAlliance]

I wish I had as many animals as he does maybe I'd do videos myself but 4 now I'll watch u guys lol

[@BobbyEOfficial]

Alex is such a chill dude and his sense of humor is unmatched lol. Anyway since these two decided to check out your channel I couldn't help but to pop over there myself and I have to say for having only around 150 subs you are SUPER underrated and I hope you keep uploading. Ill be looking forward to it and hope ur channel grows!

[@roberteikelberg4562]

I subbed too! Love your vlogs too! Keep it up. I even left a comment on your latest vid 🤘

[@Rockets8232]

Omg thank you for adding closed captioning!!!!!

[@FeedMeSalt]

These are aimed at the upper middle class. Its a brand like anything else where i live. I will admit they should offer something more for the cost though. They have no gimick really.

[@KathySandru]

Our man is bulking up! Looking good, Alex!

[@Iluvmitski_]

Thx for posting this I’m in need of a new enclosure for my Leo (I have ten gal rn) so any tips on good quality inexpensive enclosures 😗💅🏾

[@prestondavis3342]

Animal Plastics is hands down one of the best, you will have to wait a while to get the actual enclosure, but they are well worth the wait.

[@star1729]

@@prestondavis3342 thank you - I was looking literally everywhere for a 4’x2’x2’ tank that yk, wasn’t $600, and I found one for $160

[@violetbyers6818]

leopard geckos dont need large enclosures so buying one from a specific company isn't really necessary. you can just watch facebook marketplace for used aquariums or enclosures second hand. much cheaper and more sustainable than unnecessarily buying new.

[@prestondavis3342]

@@star1729 you’re welcome! 😃 The Animal Plastics T8 is a fantastic enclosure, you won’t be disappointed!

[@quinceyclouds3208]

I love seeing reviews from a wide range of people, especially when it’s not sponsored so you can give an honest reaction without pressure of that

[@darien3867]

A three year warranty is saying that if it breaks within three years you can get a new one for free

[@hilljack2yackie]

😂

[@thecatlady7093]

I love that your so honest and humble ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️

[@Iluvmitski_]

I love how he’s commenting the simplest things under other peoples comments 🙈

[@katiemccracken156]

I had none of those problems... I got their pvc enclosure because I'm doing bioactive for a ball python. I live in an apartment so I don't have any access to building space or tools to build my own enclosure. The only problem I had was that the holes for the handles were tight, but I just used a screw driver to get the screw in. Which I prefer so the handle doesn't spin around. I'm loving it so far.

[@dyoung0847]

I'm loving it too. It's crazy to think a screwdriver helped the screw go in 😂 I'm glad some other people are defending the company. I love my zenhabitats and so do my pets

[@hilljack2yackie]

My right handle spins and if your ball python is small, WATCH OUT!!!!! They can slide in between the doors if my pointer finger can!!!!!

[@katiemccracken156]

@@hilljack2yackie mine is not small at all lol. But that's a problem with most sliding door enclosures. You could try a rubber strip or something to close the gap.

[@hilljack2yackie]

@@katiemccracken156 we had to use weather stripping and mines a baby

[@BentleyS6336]

Can we get another cactus 🥺 pls

[@GoHerping]

no

[@chriscool18000]

@@GoHerping rip cactus, pay the respects

[@anonymousssgoogleuser6976]

You just saved me $700+ for the vivarium and stand with Zen Habitat. This was so frustrating to watch. I would lose my mind. Thank you! Great video!!

[@maif6762]

You asked for the most expensive one but they didn’t send you the most expensive one tho lol

[@hilljack2yackie]

No they didn’t lol mine is the most expensive one. It’s PVC

[@szudy76]

I love mine 🤷‍♀️ and I put it together myself with no problems at all...

[@TaleRavenTarot]

Well the good news is they seem to have fixed all or most of the things you hated about it. I love mine and I’m not capable of building something like this myself so I’m glad they’re available.