What's the difference between proportional and on/off thermostats?

[Tirevy]

I know what each does, but what I'm wondering is which is technically better? What are the benefits of the proportional and the on/off thermostats? I'm looking into getting the Hydrofarm one, and it's an on/off one. I'm just curious as to which is "better".

[llovelace]

proportional runs at constant temp, on/off reaches the desired temp then shuts off, then on again when the temp drops a couple degrees

[steveboos]

Proportional is technically better and is used by all of the larger Breeders. It's easier to control temps very consistently, and if you want a night drop, this are the thermostats to do it with.

Now that being said, On/Off thermostats work great and can save you about $50 off the price of a proportional one, but depends on your needs. For under 15 snakes, i say either is fine. If you have over 15 snakes, i would stick to strictly Proportional Thermostats.

[yeroc1982]

i got a herpstat and love it. i also have a on/off zilla 1000 and absolutly hate it. Its all over the place and not consistent at all. I have to mess around with it all the time. Looking into another herpstat