ZooMed Repti-Temp 500R

I'm currently running my two heaters off a rheostat, and it holds the temps really well, as the room the tubs are in holds a constant temp. The tub temps only really fluctuate when I open the lids, and I check the hot spots at least twice a day with a temp gun (in addition to the thermometers).

The only problems I've had with temps changing is when I moved the snakes to the room they're in now, but it's settled since doing that.... should I even worry about upgrading to a thermostat?

I think that they are okay for the money. I plan on moving up to a herpstat or a Helix when I have the extra loot. I have not had any issues with the zoomed. You have to keep an eye on temps if the room is subject to drastic temp changes. I've heard plenty of horror stories with Helix, Herpstat and just about any other product out there.

There is a horror story for every thermostat out there.

All of mine lay on the table next to their tank / rack.

Bottom line is, there are a lot of newbees out there that can't afford a helix or a herpstat... or even a rancho... the 500R works fine with a little extra effort.

I have tanks / racks all over the house. I can not afford a helix for each one! And now that I have had such good experiences, with the 500R I feel no need to change them out.

At the same time, when I finally do get my big racks.... I will upgrade. then it would make financial sense to me. when there are 10 snakes living off of one thermostat, it is time!

Agreed. There are horror stories about nearly every control device out there. Best advice is to get the best that you can afford.
ReptiTemps are cheap, but they are a ton better than a rheostat or dimmer in a home where temps fluctuate more than a few degrees! I currently own 5 and have three running now, and the only problem with them is initial setting. One of them has been running for about 6 months now on one of my corn setups and hasn't wavered beyond a degree or two at most. Of course, I also have one Ranco and one Johnson stat (running my BP setups), but I can't afford anything better right now.

Bottom line: when you're poor, those ReptiTemp stats are lifesavers!