Every chicken keeper wants the same thing—healthy hens, plenty of eggs, and a coop that makes flock care easy. Laying hens need comfort, safety, and smart design to keep them happy and productive. Whether you have just a few hens or a bigger backyard flock, the right coop helps boost egg production and makes your daily routine a breeze. Here’s how to pick the best chicken coop for laying hens, and which models stand out for value, design, and real results.
Quick Picks
- Omlet Eglu Cube Large Chicken Coop – Best Overall
- OverEZ Large Chicken Coop – Best Budget Walk-In
- Rugged Ranch Cheyenne Walk-In Coop – Best Premium
Buyer’s Guide
Laying hens have specific needs, and your coop choice makes all the difference. Here’s what to look for when shopping for a new chicken coop for egg layers:
- Ample Nesting Boxes: Each 3-4 hens should have a dedicated, private nest. Look for soft, enclosed boxes—ideally raised off the floor.
- Spacious Roosts: Laying hens need comfortable perches, higher than the nests, for restful nights.
- Ventilation Without Drafts: Good airflow keeps the coop dry and fresh, but avoid direct drafts on your hens—especially in winter.
- Predator Protection: Solid doors, locks, and hardware cloth (not chicken wire) keep raccoons, snakes, and other threats out.
- Easy-Clean Design: Pull-out trays, walk-in doors, and wipeable surfaces save hours on maintenance and keep eggs clean.
- Weather Protection: Insulated or double-walled coops prevent stress, which can drop egg numbers fast.
Detailed Product Reviews
Omlet Eglu Cube Large Chicken Coop
Who it’s for: Anyone who wants an easy-clean, insulated, and predator-proof coop for up to 10 laying hens.
- Key Benefits:
- Spacious interior and extra-deep, private nest box—perfect for egg layers
- Curved, double-walled plastic is warm in winter, cool in summer
- Wipe-clean surfaces and slide-out trays make daily chores simple
- Pros:
- No wood to rot or absorb odors
- Optional run extension and automatic door
- Modern look fits suburban or country yards
- Cons:
- Plastic style is different than classic wood coops
- More expensive upfront, but little ongoing maintenance
- Final Verdict: The top all-around choice for anyone wanting more eggs, less work, and a coop that lasts for years.
OverEZ Large Chicken Coop
Who it’s for: Backyard chicken keepers seeking a classic wood walk-in with ample nesting boxes and great value.
- Key Benefits:
- 5 roomy nesting boxes—ideal for medium and large flocks
- Big walk-in door makes egg collection and cleaning easy
- Weatherproof, pre-painted wood panels for all-season comfort
- Pros:
- Holds up to 15 hens comfortably
- Windows and vents covered with hardware cloth
- Traditional look, built to last
- Cons:
- Heavy—needs a solid, level foundation
- Requires some maintenance (paint or stain) in harsh weather
- Final Verdict: The best walk-in coop for the price, with all the essentials for productive egg layers.
Rugged Ranch Cheyenne Walk-In Coop
Who it’s for: Large flock owners or those seeking a barn-style, walk-in coop with heavy-duty build quality.
- Key Benefits:
- Huge interior—supports 15–20 hens and multiple nest boxes
- Extra-tall walk-in design for easy access to eggs and roosts
- Steel-reinforced frame and full hardware cloth protection
- Pros:
- Handles large flocks with space to spare
- Heavy roof for all-weather protection
- Double doors for equipment and bedding
- Cons:
- Requires a big backyard or farm setting
- Premium price—but built for the long haul
- Final Verdict: The ultimate barn-style coop for productive, low-stress egg layers.
SnapLock Large Plastic Chicken Coop
Who it’s for: Smaller flocks or those wanting a maintenance-free, easy-clean coop with excellent laying space.
- Key Benefits:
- Double-wall plastic insulates and cleans in minutes
- Private nest box area with external egg access
- Snaps together—no tools needed
- Pros:
- No risk of wood rot or mites
- Low dust, safe for all climates
- Great for up to 8 hens
- Cons:
- Not a walk-in
- Works best with a secure run attached
- Final Verdict: The best plug-and-play coop for new keepers and smaller flocks.
Producer’s Pride Defender Chicken Coop
Who it’s for: Flock owners seeking solid wood construction, ample nest boxes, and a raised, weather-ready build.
- Key Benefits:
- Weather-sealed wood and raised base for all-season laying
- Three large nesting boxes and roomy roosts
- Predator-resistant locks and window covers
- Pros:
- Good value for mid-sized flocks
- Easy to reinforce or insulate for harsh climates
- Cons:
- Assembly required
- Not as insulated as top models
- Final Verdict: A budget-friendly choice for reliable egg laying and easy upgrades.
Aivituvin Large Walk-In Chicken Coop
Who it’s for: Chicken keepers wanting an affordable, spacious coop with multiple egg-laying spots.
- Key Benefits:
- Includes multiple nest boxes and roost bars
- Walk-in design with wide access for eggs and cleaning
- Easy to assemble with strong frame and wire mesh run
- Pros:
- Great for growing flocks—holds up to 10 hens
- Budget price for its size
- Cons:
- Wood is lighter weight than premium models
- Extra predator proofing may be needed in rural areas
- Final Verdict: Smart value for those who want plenty of egg space without overspending.
Comparison Table
| Name | Best For | Capacity | Nesting Boxes | Price Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Omlet Eglu Cube | Low-maintenance, insulated, easy clean | Up to 10 hens | 2 | View on Amazon |
| OverEZ Large Coop | Classic walk-in, best value | Up to 15 hens | 5 | View on Amazon |
| Rugged Ranch Cheyenne | Large flocks, barn style | 15–20 hens | Multiple (customizable) | View on Amazon |
| SnapLock Large Plastic | Maintenance free, small flocks | Up to 8 hens | 1 | View on Amazon |
| Producer’s Pride Defender | Raised, weather-sealed | 8–10 hens | 3 | View on Amazon |
| Aivituvin Large Walk-In | Budget walk-in | Up to 10 hens | 2+ | View on Amazon |
FAQ
How many nesting boxes per hen do I need?
Plan for 1 box for every 3–4 hens. Hens often share, but more boxes mean less competition and cleaner eggs.
What is the best bedding for egg layers?
Pine shavings or chopped straw are soft, absorbent, and help keep eggs clean. Avoid cedar and dusty materials.
Do laying hens need a walk-in coop?
Walk-in coops make egg collection and cleaning much easier, especially for bigger flocks. Smaller coops work for 2–6 hens but may be harder to maintain.
How do I stop hens from eating their own eggs?
Keep nests private, dark, and cushioned. Collect eggs often and provide enough calcium in the diet.
What is the ideal temperature for laying hens?
Hens lay best in coops that stay above freezing in winter and below 90°F in summer. Good ventilation and insulation help maintain steady conditions.
Conclusion
A great chicken coop makes egg collecting easier, boosts your flock’s health, and means more eggs for your family. Choose a coop with safe, comfy nests, secure doors, and enough space for every hen. Invest in the right setup, and you’ll enjoy fresh eggs—and happy hens—year round.
Special Section: Backyard Eggs
Want expert tips for building the perfect coop, boosting egg production, and enjoying stress-free flock care? Backyard Eggs is the #1 guide for American chicken keepers.
Get Backyard Eggs now and start your clean, quiet coop the right way