Top 10 Chicken Nesting Boxes of 2025: My Expert Picks

Finding the best chicken nesting box for your needs is crucial for every hobbyist. It doesn’t matter if you’ve got a couple of birds or an entire flock, you’ll need this essential accessory. Chicken nesting boxes provide a safe, comfortable, and private space for your hens to lay their eggs. It stops other birds from bothering them while also protecting their eggs from pecking and defecation. In this guide, I’ll take you through the top 10 chicken nesting boxes on the market right now. From sloped roofs to rollout trays, there’s something here for everyone!

Comparison of the 10 Best Nesting Boxes of 2025

We’ve selected the best nesting boxes based on reliability, features, and ease of use. We did extensive research and testing, and checked user reviews, to make sure we provide you with the best possible options. However, what is the best door for your flock also depends on your own situation. To make choosing easier, we’ve put them together in a comparison table. Whether you’re after premium quality, energy efficiency, or budget-friendly options, we’ve got you covered.

The Top 10 Chicken Nesting Boxes of 2025

1. Homestead Essentials Rollout Chicken Nesting Box

This offering by Homestead Essentials is my current favourite chicken nesting box on the market today. It has everything you could possibly need and is available for a great price, too. Combining value and quality, it’s a fabulous system that’s perfect for every hobbyist. Let’s get the only negative out of the way: it may be too small for some chicken owners with larger flocks because it is suitable for six to eight birds. Otherwise, there’s really nothing wrong with this product. 

First, let’s talk about the materials in this product. It is made from high-quality steel, ensuring its durability and longevity. it will not easily break, wear, tear or rust, regardless of the weather. Another excellent feature is the protective egg collection lids. This has a fantastic egg collection system to keep your eggs free from feces and pecking. Rollout nesting boxes are the best because they immediately separate the eggs from the birds. This version is easy to access, and there’s little risk of the eggs cracking when they roll down. 

It will take some assembly, which may require some patience, but this is phenomenal value for money. Some customers mentioned that it’s important to follow the instructions properly, or you may need to start again. However, there are chicken nesting boxes that cost twice as much as this product but are of a much lower standard. It is remarkably sturdy because there are no lock washers, but rather ribs that press against the steel so it won’t fall apart. 

Watch this video to learn how to assemble the Homestead Essentials Nesting Box.

One happy customer noted: “With recent hyper inflation and the doubling of metal nest boxes this last year, I think this may be the best, most affordable and functional offering at this price point on the market.”

It has a roosting area in front of the box so the birds can rest. There’s a sloped roof to dissuade them from sitting on the top of the nesting box. Some birds may still find their way up there, but it shouldn’t be comfortable for them. Ultimately, I highly recommend this chicken nesting box because you won’t find a better value.

2. Redants Community Style Chicken Nesting Box For Pros

This outstanding chicken nesting box by Redants has everything you and your chickens need. Suitable for up to 20 birds, it has plenty of space for a backyard flock. Firstly, it’s relatively straightforward to set up. Even if you’ve basic DIY skills like me, you should be able to do it! Meanwhile, Redants uses high-quality steel for a sturdy nesting box that can stand up to the elements. Importantly, it’s also easy for owners to clean it, and it has a high hygiene rating.

This is one of the best overall chicken nesting boxes because of its excellent features. It has a roll-out tray so you can be sure your hens won’t damage the eggs. Like most of the best nesting boxes, there’s also a sloped roof. This is important because it prevents roosters or even other chickens from sitting on top and harassing the laying birds. 

Another aspect I like is that this chicken nesting box encourages natural behavior, so it’s not just about clinical functionality. It has a bright red curtain that attracts the birds inside with easy access for your backyard flock. To learn more about this feature, watch the video below. This is a really nice touch and shows the levels of detail and research Redants has put into this chicken nesting box. The egg-laying crates are also reversible to prevent the birds from roosting overnight. 

Customers also love this product. One described it:  “This durable chicken nesting box is designed for efficient egg collection and hen comfort… perfect for backyard flocks or small farms.” 

This is exactly what users want to hear. The only downside is that it may be a bit too much if you’ve only got a couple of birds. However, this doesn’t diminish the quality of the nesting box. It’s perfect for owners, and the good news is that if they look after it properly, it should last for a lifetime! 

3. Rollout Chicken Nesting Box 2-Tier

Another top-rated product, this rollout chicken nesting box from ZenxyHOC is a premium option. Unlike the previous nesting boxes, this one is a two-tier system. One advantage of this is that it is surprisingly compact despite its large capacity. It’s also useful because hickens can be hierarchical. The more dominant birds may choose to go to a higher position than the weaker birds. Another benefit is that older or physically weaker hens will still be able to reach the lower box. 

Again, this chicken nesting box is superb value for money. It is suitable for backyard flocks of up to 17 birds, which is ideal for most hobbyists. They don’t shirk on quality despite the price because it uses high-quality steel for the box and polyethylene for the tray lids. 

Many customers note how easy it is to assemble this chicken nesting box. One observed: “Very nice. Well constructed and easy to assemble. Chickens did not like it at first. They laid eggs everywhere but in the nesting box. Now they are doing great.” 

It’s crucial to be patient with your birds because they may take some time to adapt to their new nesting box. This product comes with some fake eggs to entice the birds inside. However, as some reviewers commented, this is slightly pointless because they fall into the rollout tray!

The good news is that this is very hygienic with ventilation holes for your birds. The rollout tray lids are also removable, so you can clean them easily. All-in-all, this is an excellent box and I highly recommend it if you have a larger flock. 

4. Extra-Large Community Style Nesting Box

If you’re looking for a bigger chicken nesting box, then I absolutely recommend this product from Best Nest Box. It has a huge capacity for up to 75 birds. Yes, I understand that this is probably way beyond the needs of most people reading this, but I want to cover every base! 

It scores highly for ease of use and set-up. This is something that every smallholder or hobbyist will agree is very important. It’s also extremely hygienic and easy to keep clean. The dual floor system and wire mesh collection area are great features. Trust me, when you’ve that many birds, it’s easy to attract rodents and other unwanted pests. However, it won’t keep them safe from foxes or coyotes, so you should secure it inside an enclosed space. 

This is a community-style nesting box like the smaller one from Redants (my top pick and number 2 on this list). This means that the chickens sit side-by-side without separation. The advantage is that it’s very space-efficient. However, it also means that the birds don’t get as much privacy, and this may affect some layers. The reality is that it’s more practical this way if you’ve a bigger flock. 

It also has red curtains to lure the chickens inside, which is another nice feature. I don’t understand why this isn’t standard across the industry because it works great! Meanwhile, the rollout trays are reversible so you can switch them to either side of the box to save space. You can also seal off the box at night if you wish, which stops the chickens from roosting inside and keeps it cleaner. 

As I said, for many people, this nesting box will be overkill. It’s also extremely expensive, but I think you get a lot for your buck. One verified customer noted: “I would definitely recommend their products. They were quick to take care of issues and make sure I was taken care of.” 

That’s why I can absolutely recommend it without any hesitation. 

5. Brower 2-Tier Steel Nesting Box

Another high-quality product, this Brower Steel Nesting Box is a very durable design. It’s an All-American product, so you can rest assured that you’re supporting a local business. This nesting box also has a very large capacity for between 30 and 40 hens, so it should be big enough for most people reading this guide!

This is a flat-based nesting box, so there’s no rollout tray. Some hobbyists prefer this because it encourages more natural behavior. The chickens may make a nest inside the box. Meanwhile, the eggs stay in the box so your birds may become broody. This is what you want if you’re hoping to hatch eggs. But it’s not ideal if your primary goal is to get eggs for breakfast! That’s why it’s essential to understand your needs first. 

It has a foldable roosting space in front of the nesting box, which is useful for attracting the birds. Like most quality nesting boxes, it also has a sloped roof. Many reviewers appreciated that it was easy to assemble. 

One wrote: “We have large breeds that don’t seem to have any issue getting in and out, and they seem content with the amount of privacy.”

However, one apparently constant issue with this steel nesting box is that it has sharp edges. Many buyers observed this and warned other customers to exercise caution during assembly. Some noted it could also be an issue in the future after weathering. It may be an idea to file the edges. It’s also quite expensive compared to some competitors, but you know you’re paying for quality. 

6. Steel Chicken Nesting Boxes Feokumo

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option for a larger backyard flock, then this Feokumo nesting box may be for you. It’s available for a great price despite its large capacity of up to 17 hens. 

This nesting box has most of the features you expect. It has a rollout tray to protect your eggs. You also have the option of leaving it freestanding or hanging it on a wall. Most users recommend the latter because it’s more stable. However, it’s nice to have the option, unlike many of the other products in this guide! 

Another aspect I really like is the excellent ventilation. Chicken nesting boxes can quickly become very unhygienic spaces. This box has many ventilation holes so your birds breathe clean air and remain healthy. It’s a nice touch because it will make it a more comfortable space for your hens, and they’ll enjoy using it more. 

However, this isn’t a perfect product. As many customers note, it’s more awkward to assemble than many competitors. Some also questioned the quality of the materials. It also has a flat roof, so you may find chickens and roosters sitting on top of it. Nonetheless, you get what you pay for, and if you’re just starting, this could be a great option. That’s why I’ve no hesitation in recommending it as a budget option.

As one happy customer noted: “They are perfect size roosting boxes and have had great success with this product. The functionality of the box makes collecting eggs a breeze.”

7. Chicken Nesting Box Kinchoix

Here’s another decent chicken nesting box for a good price. A nesting box for up to 23 hens, it’s a great size for most backyard flocks. If you’re just looking for a basic set-up, then this could be the right box for your needs. 

This Kinchoix nesting box uses galvanized steel with rounded edges, so there’s less risk of harming yourself or your birds. It also has a sloped roof, which they note prevents rain from gathering. More importantly, it also dissuades your hens from sitting on top. 

Again, assembly is easy with supplied screws and bolts. Some reviewers noted that the screws are cheap so there’s the possibility they may come loose in the future. Another point to note is that there are reports of hens getting their feet stuck in the rollout tray bars. This could be an issue, especially if you mount the boxes quite high. 

However, almost all customers agree that this chicken nesting box is an excellent value for money. It’s not perfect, but you get a lot of value for the price. It’s also reasonably weather-resistant so should last for quite a long time. 

8. Single Plastic Nesting Box Little Giant

Let’s look at the other end of the spectrum. Maybe you only have one or two birds so there’s no point in getting a massive chicken nesting box. That’s why you should check out this nesting box from Little Giant. It’s only got the capacity for one chicken, but it’s surprisingly effective. 

Firstly, let’s talk about the materials. It is made of plastic rather than galvanized steel, like most of the other boxes on this list. One benefit is that you don’t need to worry about corrosion. It’s also much lighter to move and easier to mount on walls. Plastic is also warmer than steel so you can be sure of a cosy environment for your bird. It’s also much easier to clean than wood and more durable.

The price is also excellent, so you might be tempted to get a couple and mount them around the coop if you have more than one bird. This is a superb budget pick because you get so many great features. The rounded shape also means that it’s tricky for hens to sit on top without slipping off. It’s an enclosed space, so it protects them from the elements.

Obviously, this won’t be suitable for hobbyists with larger backyard flocks. Also, there’s no rollout tray, which could be an issue. However, it could be perfect for a broody hen because it’s got the feel of a nice dark nest. But it’s still an excellent value. One verified buyer wrote:

“These nesting boxes are cheap and easy to put up. They are made of plastic and, therefore, easy to clean, and you can just take them off to move or clean. My chickens used them straight away and now prefer these to their nesting box in their coop.”

That’s why it’s definitely my budget pick for one hen.

9. Wooden Chicken Nesting Box Compartments

This might just be the best-looking nesting box in this guide. These wooden nesting boxes are one of the best pine wood options on the market today. Many people prefer wood because of its aesthetic and natural qualities. It’s also usually lighter to move and potentially easier to assemble than steel alternatives. 

One sure advantage is that wood is like a natural thermostat that regulates the temperature. If you live in an area with an extreme climate, you should exercise caution with metal nesting boxes because your chickens may overheat or be too cold. This is less likely to be an issue with a wooden nesting box. A bonus is that the pine wood has a lovely natural scent.

It doesn’t have a rollout tray but it does have baffles that prevent the eggs from suffering damage. This is one of my favorite features in this nesting box. I think it’s a really clever touch. Also, these nesting boxes will definitely add character to your backyard. It’s not just a big functional metal box. You could even paint them bright colors if that’s your vibe!

The price is very good, but you’ll probably need to add an overcoat to ensure longevity. Otherwise, you can expect weathering to occur. Despite this, most customers agree this is a great product that’s easy to assemble and safe to use. The pieces have predrilled holes, so you shouldn’t need to use any electric tools when you’re setting them up. The wood is also of high quality.

A verified buyer noted: “Almost gave up looking for decent wood nesting boxes that included a perch for easy access for the chickens. Then this one met all the things I was looking for.”

10. Precision Pet Wooden Nesting Box

My final recommendation in this guide is also the most basic. The Precision Pet Wooden Nesting Box offers no frills. It’s extremely functional but also very cheap. Forget about roll-out trays and red curtains because this box doesn’t have any of those features. 

There’s no point talking about sloped roofs either because it doesn’t have any roof! This exposes the chickens to elements, but that may not be an issue if you situate the box inside a coop. It’s a cheap wooden nesting box for up to eight hens, and there isn’t much more to say about it than that. 

It’s crucial to note that this box may leave your hens vulnerable to rodents or snakes. You should predator-proof your coop before using this product. It could be a good option if you’re just starting on your chicken-keeping journey. You may not want to spend much money on an expensive nesting box with fancy features. The advantage it has over the Little Giant Nesting Box is a much higher capacity, despite being in the same price range. 

Some customers reported issues with the quality of materials. This shouldn’t be too surprising because Precision Pet didn’t design this to protect against the elements. Be careful when assembling it because you may inadvertently damage it. 

One verified buyer observed: “For the price, I think it’s great. Everything fit into place. Do not force anything or it will break.”

In sum, this is a bargain basement buy, but it will do the job if you’re starting out. 

Features To Consider When Choosing a Nesting Box

Before buying a nesting box, think about which features to consider. The right choice depends on your budget, number of birds, and daily routine. Below are the key features you should consider before making your decision:

Nesting Box Type: Community-Style or Individual Compartments

When shopping for nesting boxes, you’ll come across two main types:

• Community-style nesting boxes have one or more very large compartments where several hens can lay together. They are very common in commercial layer farms with thousands of hens because they require less material and space per bird. Many hens are social creatures and may feel more comfortable laying in a communal area rather than a solitary box. However, while hens are sociable, too many hens in one large compartment can lead to stress, competition, and lower productivity. Also, hoarding behaviour is more of a problem. When one or a few hens claim the most desirable nesting spot, others do not have access to the communal nesting area.
• Individual compartment nesting boxes have 1 or more compartments, in which one hen has her own private spot to lay an egg. This reduces stress and competition, and can lead to more eggs. However, they take up more space, take more time to clean, and are less sociable for your hens.

My personal preference is a community-style nesting box, especially for larger flocks of similar breed(s). If you have a smaller flock of < 10 hens, or a flock of 20 hens but space and cleaning are not an issue, nesting boxes with individual compartments will also work well. As a last tip, be mindful of how many different hen breeds and sizes are in your flock. If you have many different breeds and sizes, individual compartments may work better to reduce stress and aggression.

Number of Boxes Needed for Your Flock Size

Most chicken keepers suggest having one nesting box for every 4-5 laying hens. But I recommend a slightly different approach to keep the peace.

For 3 to 5 chickens, I recommend 2 nesting boxes. If you have more chickens, add 1 more nesting box for every 3 additional chickens. So for example:

• For 10 chickens, you’ll need 4 nesting boxes (2 + 2).
• For 20 chickens, you’ll need 7 nesting boxes (2 + 5).

Having more boxes than the bare minimum reduces tension and keeps things running smoothly in your chicken coop. Observe your chickens’ behavior. If you find too many eggs crammed in a single box or eggs laid on the floor, you may need to adjust the number of nesting boxes.

correct Size and Dimensions Per Nesting Box Compartment

When choosing a nesting box, size really does matter. A box that’s too small will make your hens feel cramped. If it’s too large, it may invite more than one hen at a time, resulting in broken eggs or squabbles. The ideal size nesting box for most standard laying hens is around 30 × 30 × 30 centimeters. This gives your hen enough room to turn around, settle comfortably, and lay her egg in peace.

If you keep larger breeds such as Orpingtons or Brahmas, nesting box compartments need to be a bit bigger; up to 35 × 35 centimeters. On the other hand, bantam breeds prefer smaller, cozier boxes. The goal is to create a snug, secure space that feels like a private little ‘cave’, encouraging your hens to use the nesting boxes instead of laying in hidden corners of the coop or run.

Material the Nesting Box is Made Of

The material of your nesting box plays a big role in comfort, hygiene, and durability. Wood, plastic, and metal are the most common choices, each with its pros and cons.

Wooden boxes are traditional and cozy, giving hens a natural, warm feel. However, they can absorb moisture and harbor mites if not cleaned regularly or sealed properly. Plastic nesting boxes are lightweight, easy to clean, and resistant to parasites. They are perfect for backyard keepers who value low maintenance. Metal boxes are very durable and often used in larger setups, but they can feel cold in winter unless lined with plenty of bedding. In my opinion as a poultry expert, plastic and/or metal are the best options.

Presence of a Rollout Tray

A rollout tray is a handy feature that lets freshly laid eggs gently roll away from the hen into a covered collection area that hens can’t reach. This feature helps keep the eggs clean and undamaged, and makes it easy to collect them. To me, a rollout tray is an unnegotiable feature since I like to collect eggs only once a day when it suits me.

Advantages of a rollout tray:

• Cleaner eggs: Eggs roll away from dirt and droppings into a clean tray that hens can’t reach.
• Prevents egg eating and broken egg shells: Hens can’t peck or accidentally crack their own eggs.
• Easier collection: You can gather eggs from outside the coop or from a single access point.
• Better protection: Keeps eggs shaded and safe from heat, moisture, and curious hens.
• Less work: Collecting eggs once a day is more than enough, and you can do it when it suits you.

If you want a low-effort, clean egg collection setup, choosing a nesting box with a rollout tray is well worth the investment.

Roosting Bar Or Space In Front of the Nesting Box

A roosting bar in front of a nesting box serves a completely different purpose than the higher roosting bars! High roosting bars are needed for chickens to sleep on. Since chickens instinctively prefer to sleep perched up high, these roosting bars are positioned higher than the nesting boxes.

A roosting bar in front of a nesting box is there to make it easier for the hens to enter the nesting box. Especially if nesting boxes aren’t on the floor but raised or hung higher, chickens will fly or jump up on the roosting bar before hopping into the nesting box.

Sloped or Flat Roof

The roof of a nesting box may seem like a small detail, but it affects both egg safety and coop hygiene. First of all, a nesting box should have a roof to create a cozy and safe place for a hen to lay an egg. Secondly, I prefer a sloped roof over a flat roof.

A nesting box with a sloped roof has several advantages:

• Rain or moisture runs off easily if the box is outside
• Prevents dust and bedding accumulation on top
• Prevents chickens from sitting on top, keeping the nesting box area clean and peaceful

How We Tested

To create this list of the Top 10 Chicken Nesting Boxes, we combined hands-on testing with deep research into customer reviews, product specifications, and real-world performance. We read through hundreds of verified customer reviews and consulted chicken-keeping communities to understand longer-term issues, like durability, chicken comfort, number of (floor) eggs, and more.

Here’s what we focused on:

• Durability: We considered the materials used, the quality of construction, and daily wear and tear.
• Comfort and Design: We looked at factors like the size of the nesting box compartment(s), the shape and privacy it offers for hens, and how inviting it is for laying.
• Ease of Use: We took into account features such as access for egg collection, how simple it is to clean, and whether the design allows for hassle-free maintenance and daily use.
• Price versus Value: Finally, we looked at what each product offered for its price, balancing performance, features, and durability.

The result is this list of nesting boxes that we’d trust our chickens to lay many eggs in.

Our Awards

Not all coops, or chicken keepers, have the same needs or budgets. That’s why, after testing and comparing, we’ve selected three standout products for special recognition. These picks reflect not just features and performance, but also price, ease of use, and real-world practicality.

Editor’s Choice: Best All-Around Value

The product that earns our Editor’s Choice strikes the perfect balance between quality and cost. It’s user-friendly, well-built, and does the job without overcomplicating things or breaking the bank. A great choice for most backyard chicken keepers.

Top Pick: Best Overall Performance

This award goes to the product that stood out for its combination of reliability, build quality, and features. It’s the one we’d recommend to chicken keepers who want a dependable, long-term solution that performs in all seasons.

Budget Pick: Best for Smaller Budgets

For those looking for a reliable product at a lower price point, our Budget Pick is ideal. It skips a few premium extras but still delivers solid performance and peace of mind at an affordable price.

Why Trust Chicken Clucks?

At Chicken Clucks, we know backyard chickens aren’t just animals. They’re part of the family. That’s why we’re committed to giving honest, practical advice that helps you keep your flock happy, healthy, and safe.

Every product we recommend is thoroughly researched, compared, and, when possible, tested in a real backyard coop. We don’t just rely on manufacturer claims. We dig into user reviews, speak with other chicken keepers, and consider long-term reliability, not just first impressions.

Behind Chicken Clucks is a fellow chicken keeper with a background in animal sciences and years of experience as a professional poultry expert. Whether you’re buying your first coop accessory or upgrading your setup, we write with you and your flock’s needs in mind. No fluff, no jargon, and no pressure to buy the most expensive gadget out there.

If we wouldn’t use it in our own coop, we won’t recommend it here.

Top 10 FAQs About Chicken Nesting Boxes

Read my other article for the Top 10 Chicken Nesting Box Questions You Asked Google.

Conclusions

Choosing the right nesting box is about creating a safe, comfortable, and hygienic environment for your hens while making life easier for you. Our top 10 picks balance size, comfort, materials, and practical features like rollout trays and easy-to-clean designs.

For small backyard flocks, individual nesting boxes with cozy compartments often work best, while larger or more docile flocks may thrive in community-style setups. Durable materials, proper roosting space, and thoughtful design ensure that your hens lay consistently in the right spot and that eggs remain clean and safe. A rollout tray is a must-have feature for any nesting box in my opinion!

Ultimately, the best nesting box is one that suits your flock size, coop layout, and maintenance preferences. Investing in a high-quality, well-designed box now will save time, reduce stress, and keep your backyard chickens healthy and happy for years to come.