Opinions needed on test kits please

Hello all,

I have been using the dip test strips that test for ammonia, nitrates, nitrites and PH. On an impluse purchase I bought an API test tube kit that tests for all of the above for $30. I am now second guessing my purchase and thinking about taking it back. I had spoke to Dr. Fosters Smith customer service and they said the dip test strips were accurate. I do weekly water changes of roughly 10%.

I guess my questions are do I really need that API test tube kit or are my strips good enough?

and ;D

Why didn't anybody tell me this darn hobby is soo addicting and expensive...where were you guys then???
(Just Kidding on the last one question...haha)

 

test strips are bad IMO, for more accurate results you are better off with the tube kits. for what you will pay for live stock it is better to know the exact numbers.

 

What does IMO mean..

Nevermind, I figured it out after I posted this message.

 

ive heard that drop test kits were more accurate. but thats just what i heard.

i would guess there both pretty much the same.

IMO in my opinion

 

test strips are not even close to being as accurate to the api test kits.I have used the test strips before a long time ago and some where off by 3 dkh on alk. and the ph would read 7.8 on the test strips and 8.1 on the tube kit.(although getting a accurate reading on ph with a test kit is a round about number anyway).

 

IMO, test strips are equivalent to guessing.

You want the liquid tests for sure. They're harder, but they're correct.

 

Those API test that you purchased are actually pretty accurate and are suggested by a lot of people. The test strips as everybody has said are not good. They will work if you are doing a fish tank, but if you are doing a reef tank, they can be way off.

Kim

 

im also a fan of the ATI test kits. Def. leave the strips at the store and pick up the ATI kit.