Test strips are the best for people (like me) who are colorblind. I can take a photo of the key, take a photo of the strip, convert to greyscale, and compare. It's almost impossible to get a good-quality greyscale photo of the test tubes.
Wow that’s so smart! I think tetra or one of those companies has an app that will scan your strip and tell you your results! (For their strips at least) I think I saw another colorblind fish keeper mention it once.
@@thebeigesheep6132 previously, I had to go to a disinterested family member with a whole bunch of little vials and get them to read them. It might sound silly, but it feels good to be able to water test on my own without relying on other people.
@@sarahwoodring5587 no, not silly at all. I wonder if there's a way to make these more accessible without you needing to use an app but it's awesome that one of the brands is doing it.
Former master kit user who has also migrated to strips (co-op brand) ... but I honestly only use them for about the first 3-4 months of a new tank because I set my tanks up to become self sufficient/top-off only tanks. Plants, shrimp and fish make the water sweet (except with killi ... those bastards mow through shrimp faster than a fat guy at an all-u-can-eat buffet)
I still use the api master test kit sometimes but these aquarium co op test strips are perfect for quick and easy testing. I love these test strips, they are by far the most accurate.
@@MichaelsFishRoom That's a good point, probably because I have it lol. Mostly if I'm trying to get a more exact reading on nitrates while getting my easy green dialed in. I don't plan on buying it again though after being spoiled with the co op strips.
There’s so many in the aquarium co-op strips . I use them religiously, especially when I get new fish and have them in quarantine cause of water parameters fluctuating
I've always used the Master test kit but I have found over the last six months that my ammonia and nitrites never change so I mostly just test nitrates to see when I need to do a water change. I do test all about every 2 weeks or so. I'm going to try the co-op strips, looks much easier for testing 3 tanks when I mostly need to test nitrates. Great video as always.
@@MichaelsFishRoom it's alright, it's a bit more affordable in the uk than api. I actually got some tetra 6 in 1 strips in the end and tested them against the nt labs kit and they gave pretty much the same readings.
Another great instructional video Micheal. I use the strips as well. Tetra strips. I have the API master kit, I used it at first and it is time consuming. The only thing I use it for now is the ammonia. But now I can get Cory's ammonia strips. Whew. With my work schedule the strips are what works best for me. And since you told me a good while back that they're basically the same, I've never looked back. Thanks for all your help!!!
I keep both the API Master Kit and Aquarium Co-Op Strips. If something comes up off on the test strips I always double check with Master Kit. (Still testing the Test Strips) So far I’m happy with them.
API has pond test strips that I ended up settling on before the co op came out with theirs, still have yet to try the co op ones. They're probably more cost effective 😂. But I like how solid the pond ones are and they've tested accurate every time I've used them
That is good to know. What is different from the pont ones to the aquarium, ones? I found the aquarium strips not as accurate as the tetra or ACO ones.
I use the Co-Op test strips. I have a master kit on hand. I haven't used it in awhile, but I like having it just in case. If my strips give me some kind of crazy looking reading, I'll double check using the master kit. I don't think I've used the master kit in 2 years.
I usually use the API master test kit I don't like their test strips, aquarium co-op now ships to Canada so I might give their strips a try but I test when I know there is a problem with my 37 gallon tall aquarium but it's heavily planted and only white cloud mountain minnows and pond snails
I use test strips for the convenience. Never any issues. I'm going to try the Coops when it's time to re-order. I really like the new air pump they released...have you tried it yet?
The thing I kinda like about the api kit is…. It makes me feel like a scientist 👩🔬 lol! (I also never had more than 2-3 tanks set up at a time so it wasn’t taking an hour to do the amount of tanks others have) Also Felt like the more affordable option because I tested my water every 2days when I first started out and the kit lasts a long time. Now I only test once in a while and don’t test the ph really because I don’t breed so dont need to chase ‘ideal’ ph as long as it’s consistent.
I used to use Tetra strips but now use a combo of both API and CO-OP love there products. I agree their strips are very accurate compared to Tetra brand. Also love ur content and honesty when reviewing products. Great job...
I've had aquariums for the last 10 yrs. I never tested regularly. Because I listened to pepole that said test strips are crap. And the master kit I did not want in my house as I have kids. Anyway I recently decided to buy some and figured it's better then not testing lol. Glad to see others using them and saying there good. I got jnw strips on amazon have u tried those? Wounder the accuracy on them.
I use the coop’s strips and never had an issue. I also have the API master kit and also get the same results. Your videos are always entertaining! Best bloopers ever! 😂 Thx for another great video Mike ❤️
I use Tetra, or Co-op strips. I actually find the Master kit harder to read. Results are different depending on where you hold the vial. Strips are quick, and easy, and accurate enough. I really only test every so often, or new tanks at the beginning. I quit OVERTHINKING water parameters a while ago. I know it's shocking I could stop overthinking anything.....Ha!
Great video as usual, I use test strips at the moment but I have used the API as well. But I never saw the tetra test strips in my country. I have to check about that.
@@MichaelsFishRoom Malta 🇲🇹 we have tetra but its me I suppose,. I have never seen the test strips. You have to keep in mind we are so tiny that some things never make it here.
@@MichaelsFishRoom yes I do because I compared the results to the api kit and it was extremely close and the only one that was slightly different was nitrates..but it was so slight it was insignificant really.
@@MichaelsFishRoom agreed. I watch my fish behavior too...I see them multiple times a day and know if there's something wrong. I honestly believe that should be the first sign to test water...I make a point of checking water at least once a month. All my tanks are going on 2 years old. New tanks I will testing way more often..to ensure things don't go to shit..because that's happened to me before. Everything is great...then. boom 💥
I get why they have to separate ammonia but I don’t get why it’s more expensive than the multi test strips. Is it cuz of the chemical used? I use their multi test strips and api for ammonia cuz I don’t want to spend extra money just for one thing on a strip. Plus ammonia is pretty easy with the api kit. Nitrates the tough one.
@@MichaelsFishRoom I've actually not used the strips in a long time, but when I was using them, no. I do plan to pick up another bottle to test for nitrates now that my tanks are all cycled, as well as to test for chlorine. I have to use extra conditioner because my landlord consistently uses too much chlorine in our well, to the point where sometimes it smells like pool water coming out of our tap. I've been letting the water set in a bucket for a week before using it, haven't had any issues yet, but it would be nice to know for sure it's gone before putting it in the tank.
I’m a total beginner but I have a chemistry background in pharmacy. We use test strips for making medication, they are just as trustworthy as liquid which can be read wrong
Stopped using the API kit about a year ago. Went to test strips and will never go back. IMHO, the liquid method is a pain to use, time consuming, and still probably not always 100% accurate anyway. Which is more accurate? Not sure. What I do know, I actually test my water a lot more often than before. Honestly, my most used method is just observing. If everything looks good, it probably is. IE, eating good, active, breeding, etc. Testing pretty much verifies this.
I do like test strips and find them to be quite accurate. That is with the exception of pH. I know that my aquarium pH is 7.8-8 (depends on water change). I have tested it and verified it. However, a strip can be out by up to 5% on pH, which is a significant difference.
Your beard looks extra fluffy today! 🙂Now to business. I've used all of those test kits and I agree with you about everything. However, I totally suck at cutting those strips in half!!!! I don't know why I'm so bad at it!!!! Maybe I just need smaller scissors.
I have a shot glass , I just go tank to tank dip the glass in and take a sip . if it tastes fishy or like ammonia I change the water if not I don't. also I never get constipated...
I don’t test my water. I use Spring Misty Spring Tennessee Gallon jug water bought from Food City and add a little Alkaline buffer. I add a little prime every 2-3 days. I only have Betta Fish and they need that Stress Coat 🧥 as well. For beginners that have No clue and are beginning then YES 🙌 Absolutely you must record and Test your water for a year!
In no way do I mean to be an ass, but why doesn't Corey just sell the strips "half" sized, so consumers get more test per kit. Like the tats keep up the great work!
I live for the bloopers 😆 You've reminded me to wash my new Co op shirt for the Crown in Louisville, thanks 😊 I haven't been in the hobby long, and have the API master kit, but like most, I find it tedious. Cory has made checking water a BREEZE, if anything looks off, I'll use the API to double check. I do test my sump water FIRST, then fill tanks, as you never know what the city may do to your water! Co op is the BOMB, highly recommend!!!
I find the master test kit accurate enough as long as you don't do something major silly. You put in eight drops of ammonia test bottle one with eight drops of nitrate Bottle two. Yeah you might want to do that test over again. But if you just forget to mix the solution between bottle one and two, probably not a need to do everything over. For me that's an every time mistake. I am not taking the time to put the lid on mix the bottle open it to put in Bottle number two and then put the lid back on and mix it again. Follow the instructions to the letter if you want to, if I'm testing your tank for some reason and you want me to follow the instructions to the letter on your tank I will. But for me I find it's not completely necessary.
@@MichaelsFishRoom So keep following instructions. But as we are talking I do have a question. Maybe I missed it and just need to watch the video over again. But did you talk about things that lead you to believe that the test is off?
Imagine thinking you are smart then dipping test strips with chemicals on them directly into your tank with fish in. Rather than removing the water into a cup or glass then testing it. If anything happened to your fish now you know why.
@@MichaelsFishRoom I know you put chemicals into your tank with fish. You think I don't have a clue and come back at me like a child. I bet any money you don't have any fish over 15 years old like I do
@@MichaelsFishRoom you were just shilling for co-op fact. So enlighten me what don't I have a clue about. You put dangerous chemicals directly into your tank that's a fact. I'm guessing your embarrassed. Judging by your reply.
Check out www.michaelsfishroom.com for great healthy fish!
Test strips are the best for people (like me) who are colorblind. I can take a photo of the key, take a photo of the strip, convert to greyscale, and compare. It's almost impossible to get a good-quality greyscale photo of the test tubes.
Smart!
Wow that’s so smart! I think tetra or one of those companies has an app that will scan your strip and tell you your results! (For their strips at least) I think I saw another colorblind fish keeper mention it once.
I always wondered what color blind people have to do
@@thebeigesheep6132 previously, I had to go to a disinterested family member with a whole bunch of little vials and get them to read them. It might sound silly, but it feels good to be able to water test on my own without relying on other people.
@@sarahwoodring5587 no, not silly at all. I wonder if there's a way to make these more accessible without you needing to use an app but it's awesome that one of the brands is doing it.
Former master kit user who has also migrated to strips (co-op brand) ... but I honestly only use them for about the first 3-4 months of a new tank because I set my tanks up to become self sufficient/top-off only tanks. Plants, shrimp and fish make the water sweet (except with killi ... those bastards mow through shrimp faster than a fat guy at an all-u-can-eat buffet)
LOL, that is how is should be done!
I still use the api master test kit sometimes but these aquarium co op test strips are perfect for quick and easy testing. I love these test strips, they are by far the most accurate.
Then why use the master kit? Just because you have it?
@@MichaelsFishRoom
That's a good point, probably because I have it lol. Mostly if I'm trying to get a more exact reading on nitrates while getting my easy green dialed in. I don't plan on buying it again though after being spoiled with the co op strips.
Great video Mike. Co-Op test strips are all I use.
Nice!
There’s so many in the aquarium co-op strips . I use them religiously, especially when I get new fish and have them in quarantine cause of water parameters fluctuating
Great!
I've always used the Master test kit but I have found over the last six months that my ammonia and nitrites never change so I mostly just test nitrates to see when I need to do a water change. I do test all about every 2 weeks or so. I'm going to try the co-op strips, looks much easier for testing 3 tanks when I mostly need to test nitrates. Great video as always.
Thanks for watching. If what you are doing works for you, then keep it up! (just try the ACO test strips.
I use the nt labs test kit. Never really considered strips cos 'Facebook said no', but i trust your judgement so I'll give them a go
How do you like the NT kit?
@@MichaelsFishRoom it's alright, it's a bit more affordable in the uk than api. I actually got some tetra 6 in 1 strips in the end and tested them against the nt labs kit and they gave pretty much the same readings.
@@GavinStatikGoddard IS that the best kit in the UK?
Another great instructional video Micheal. I use the strips as well. Tetra strips. I have the API master kit, I used it at first and it is time consuming. The only thing I use it for now is the ammonia. But now I can get Cory's ammonia strips. Whew. With my work schedule the strips are what works best for me. And since you told me a good while back that they're basically the same, I've never looked back. Thanks for all your help!!!
Thanks for watching!
Great tip on closing test strips tightly, i didn't think of that. Thanks!
Glad to help
I keep both the API Master Kit and Aquarium Co-Op Strips. If something comes up off on the test strips I always double check with Master Kit. (Still testing the Test Strips) So far I’m happy with them.
Cool!
Looking forward to seeing your drainage system
Oh, and I use the same test strips you do for the same reasons
Thanks!
I use test strips, easy pessy. Absolutely find your videos educational and entertaining 😆
Thanks so much!
Michael, nothing new here - but I always find your videos entertaining. Thank you!
Thanks
I love this guy... Naturally entertaining
And handsome!
Love the vid! I was curious as to what other brands of strips do u find to be pretty accurate?? Thanks for your time!
Thanks! The ACO are the best and tetra is also very good.
@@MichaelsFishRoom much appreciated
Thanks for doing this video, very helpful and informative 👍
Glad it was helpful!
Thanks for Alexa assist. I will incorporate into my routine. Test strips rock
Sometimes she is good. LOL
As usual a very good video you might have me as a convert for test strips
DO IT!
API has pond test strips that I ended up settling on before the co op came out with theirs, still have yet to try the co op ones. They're probably more cost effective 😂. But I like how solid the pond ones are and they've tested accurate every time I've used them
That is good to know. What is different from the pont ones to the aquarium, ones? I found the aquarium strips not as accurate as the tetra or ACO ones.
I use the Co-Op test strips. I have a master kit on hand. I haven't used it in awhile, but I like having it just in case. If my strips give me some kind of crazy looking reading, I'll double check using the master kit. I don't think I've used the master kit in 2 years.
Hiya! Yeah, that seems to be the concessus.
Wow! Really?
@@alissatyau849 yup
14:31
"cut them in half"
you cash saving guru!
ty! i just ordered a 25 pack :D
Lol
I usually use the API master test kit I don't like their test strips, aquarium co-op now ships to Canada so I might give their strips a try but I test when I know there is a problem with my 37 gallon tall aquarium but it's heavily planted and only white cloud mountain minnows and pond snails
Try them~!
I use test strips for the convenience. Never any issues. I'm going to try the Coops when it's time to re-order. I really like the new air pump they released...have you tried it yet?
Hiya! No I haven't tried the pump yet. So far everything I have tried of theirs I really like.
The thing I kinda like about the api kit is…. It makes me feel like a scientist 👩🔬 lol! (I also never had more than 2-3 tanks set up at a time so it wasn’t taking an hour to do the amount of tanks others have) Also Felt like the more affordable option because I tested my water every 2days when I first started out and the kit lasts a long time. Now I only test once in a while and don’t test the ph really because I don’t breed so dont need to chase ‘ideal’ ph as long as it’s consistent.
LOL, and many people say that is what they don't like!
I use both the Api master kit and tetra test strips
Cool
I used to use Tetra strips but now use a combo of both API and CO-OP love there products. I agree their strips are very accurate compared to Tetra brand. Also love ur content and honesty when reviewing products. Great job...
Thanks so much.
Hey you tell me how to use the test strips how much did you say exactly what to do when they're all different and bad test
Bro, I have no idea what you’re asking.
I've had aquariums for the last 10 yrs. I never tested regularly. Because I listened to pepole that said test strips are crap. And the master kit I did not want in my house as I have kids. Anyway I recently decided to buy some and figured it's better then not testing lol. Glad to see others using them and saying there good. I got jnw strips on amazon have u tried those? Wounder the accuracy on them.
Nope, I like the ACO test strips.
I use the coop’s strips and never had an issue. I also have the API master kit and also get the same results. Your videos are always entertaining! Best bloopers ever! 😂 Thx for another great video Mike ❤️
Thanks for watching!
I use Tetra, or Co-op strips. I actually find the Master kit harder to read. Results are different depending on where you hold the vial. Strips are quick, and easy, and accurate enough. I really only test every so often, or new tanks at the beginning. I quit OVERTHINKING water parameters a while ago. I know it's shocking I could stop overthinking anything.....Ha!
LOL
LOL. Love it. I use API Master Kit. But I will order these strips.
Great! Let me know how they are.
Great video, you have been a great inspiration to start my own channel thanks!
Good luck!
Great video as usual, I use test strips at the moment but I have used the API as well. But I never saw the tetra test strips in my country. I have to check about that.
What country?
@@MichaelsFishRoom
Malta 🇲🇹 we have tetra but its me I suppose,. I have never seen the test strips. You have to keep in mind we are so tiny that some things never make it here.
@@josephschembri gotcha! Can you order on Amazon?
@@MichaelsFishRoom
Yes in fact I do, but shooing has become so expensive I have to check if it's worth it or not.
I use the ACO test strips and have the master kit in case. But I always use the strips
Do you trust the strips?
@@MichaelsFishRoom yes I do because I compared the results to the api kit and it was extremely close and the only one that was slightly different was nitrates..but it was so slight it was insignificant really.
@@sandradolbel2578 that is what I found, plus there is no real way to know what is accurate.
@@MichaelsFishRoom agreed. I watch my fish behavior too...I see them multiple times a day and know if there's something wrong. I honestly believe that should be the first sign to test water...I make a point of checking water at least once a month. All my tanks are going on 2 years old. New tanks I will testing way more often..to ensure things don't go to shit..because that's happened to me before. Everything is great...then. boom 💥
I get why they have to separate ammonia but I don’t get why it’s more expensive than the multi test strips. Is it cuz of the chemical used? I use their multi test strips and api for ammonia cuz I don’t want to spend extra money just for one thing on a strip. Plus ammonia is pretty easy with the api kit. Nitrates the tough one.
Sorry, no idea. But if what you are doing works, then it's good.
I use the master test kit which is very time consuming... I think I might be able to get Aquarium co-op test strips from Amazon Canada
Try them!
I've been using the MTK, but strips are fine too.
Do you use them together?
@@MichaelsFishRoom I've actually not used the strips in a long time, but when I was using them, no. I do plan to pick up another bottle to test for nitrates now that my tanks are all cycled, as well as to test for chlorine. I have to use extra conditioner because my landlord consistently uses too much chlorine in our well, to the point where sometimes it smells like pool water coming out of our tap. I've been letting the water set in a bucket for a week before using it, haven't had any issues yet, but it would be nice to know for sure it's gone before putting it in the tank.
I’m a total beginner but I have a chemistry background in pharmacy. We use test strips for making medication, they are just as trustworthy as liquid which can be read wrong
Yup. But the interweb thinks they are trash. Some are, but these are really good IMHO.
I'm from the UK so what test strips are best for me pal?
Can you get tetra?
I've used all 3 methods you outline. I prefer the test strips because I physically can't shake those bottles as much as it's required.
You need a shaking machine!
Nice shirt! Groovy!
You can by it!
@@MichaelsFishRoom I am. I have been digging it and seen you and Dean.
Stopped using the API kit about a year ago. Went to test strips and will never go back. IMHO, the liquid method is a pain to use, time consuming, and still probably not always 100% accurate anyway. Which is more accurate? Not sure. What I do know, I actually test my water a lot more often than before. Honestly, my most used method is just observing. If everything looks good, it probably is. IE, eating good, active, breeding, etc. Testing pretty much verifies this.
Pretty much.
I use most offen the teststrips from tetra.
Nice
I do like test strips and find them to be quite accurate. That is with the exception of pH.
I know that my aquarium pH is 7.8-8 (depends on water change). I have tested it and verified it. However, a strip can be out by up to 5% on pH, which is a significant difference.
What strips are you using?
@@MichaelsFishRoom Tried both JBL and Tetra. They are the ones I have.
Thank you for a great video
Learned something new today
Glad to hear it!
Good morning you handsome S.o.B.!
Back atcha!
I want some of those blue eye lemom plecos
www.michaelsfishroom.com
Your beard looks extra fluffy today! 🙂Now to business. I've used all of those test kits and I agree with you about everything. However, I totally suck at cutting those strips in half!!!! I don't know why I'm so bad at it!!!! Maybe I just need smaller scissors.
LOL, I know the feeling! I find scissors that can cut in one "snip" the best.
@@MichaelsFishRoom That's what I've been using! Guess i just need more practice. ;-)
I use test strips . I get a zero chlorine reading , so they must be using Chloramine. Haven’t seen a test kit for that . Know of any?
No, sorry.
I have a shot glass , I just go tank to tank dip the glass in and take a sip . if it tastes fishy or like ammonia I change the water if not I don't.
also I never get constipated...
Lol
First time viewer; love the Falcon tattoo 😎
Thanks. Have R2 on my leg and my youngest son is names Luke.
I use aquarium co-op test strips for testing the water for parameters and ammonia
Thanks!
I used co-op strips showed my ph as 6.4 and used api master kit showed pH as 7.8?!?!?
throw both away - who cares if fish are healthy
So which one is right?
@@MichaelsFishRoom not sure which one is right but my fish are having lots of fry so I guess there happy 😊
@@mattgovendo7064 And that’s all that matters!
I don’t test my water. I use Spring Misty Spring Tennessee Gallon jug water bought from Food City and add a little Alkaline buffer. I add a little prime every 2-3 days. I only have Betta Fish and they need that Stress Coat 🧥 as well. For beginners that have No clue and are beginning then YES 🙌 Absolutely you must record and Test your water for a year!
Why do they need stress coat?
I have almost bought these from the co-op many times. I will no doubt be buying these now. I’m honestly sick of vials.
Great! They really work well.
Sweet! I didn't know that coop sold test strips...also, I don't test 🙀 shame on me!
LOL
Testing is for rookies
@@JJMOFO Yes, but we all were rookies at some point. Did you delete your idiot comment?
@@MichaelsFishRoom nope - I deleted nothing
@@JJMOFO hhmmmm, I don’t see it anymore.
Like email Alexa go off when you said it said Alexa timer LOL LOL
WINNER!
Hey guys! It’s Michael from fish sauce lol
Um, ok.
Got tired of feeling like a mad scientist with the API and got the Aquarium Co-Op test strips and will not go back.
Nice!
Great video. Thumbs down for the unwarned Alexa triggering. 😄
Ha Ha!
I use test strips
Cool!
In no way do I mean to be an ass, but why doesn't Corey just sell the strips "half" sized, so consumers get more test per kit. Like the tats keep up the great work!
Good question, I assume it has to do with manufacturing, and some people like the bigger strips.
I live for the bloopers 😆 You've reminded me to wash my new Co op shirt for the Crown in Louisville, thanks 😊 I haven't been in the hobby long, and have the API master kit, but like most, I find it tedious. Cory has made checking water a BREEZE, if anything looks off, I'll use the API to double check. I do test my sump water FIRST, then fill tanks, as you never know what the city may do to your water! Co op is the BOMB, highly recommend!!!
Why do you think the API kit is more accurate than strips?
Have not tested water in over 4 years
Sshhhh don’t tell anyone. Lol
I find the master test kit accurate enough as long as you don't do something major silly.
You put in eight drops of ammonia test bottle one with eight drops of nitrate Bottle two. Yeah you might want to do that test over again. But if you just forget to mix the solution between bottle one and two, probably not a need to do everything over. For me that's an every time mistake. I am not taking the time to put the lid on mix the bottle open it to put in Bottle number two and then put the lid back on and mix it again.
Follow the instructions to the letter if you want to, if I'm testing your tank for some reason and you want me to follow the instructions to the letter on your tank I will. But for me I find it's not completely necessary.
So you don’t follow recipes either?
@@MichaelsFishRoom Not always.
@@victorb145 shocker….
@@MichaelsFishRoom So keep following instructions.
But as we are talking I do have a question. Maybe I missed it and just need to watch the video over again. But did you talk about things that lead you to believe that the test is off?
@@victorb145 the question shouldn’t be why I think the API test is off, the question should be why do we think the API test is the gold standard?
I don’t test my water 💦 my no deaths and happy fish that do reproduce
Great!
my methode to test water is how many dead fish passing away😉
See, you want to test BEFORE they die.
Imagine thinking you are smart then dipping test strips with chemicals on them directly into your tank with fish in. Rather than removing the water into a cup or glass then testing it. If anything happened to your fish now you know why.
Imagine commenting on a YT video without knowing what you are talking about.
Imagine commenting without having a clue and embarassing yourself......go back to your crayons!
@@MichaelsFishRoom seriously that's your reply when I try and help you. Nice vaccine cough btw
@@MichaelsFishRoom I know you put chemicals into your tank with fish. You think I don't have a clue and come back at me like a child. I bet any money you don't have any fish over 15 years old like I do
@@MichaelsFishRoom you were just shilling for co-op fact. So enlighten me what don't I have a clue about. You put dangerous chemicals directly into your tank that's a fact. I'm guessing your embarrassed. Judging by your reply.