I started with the Johnson T-stat. They where o.k. for the on/off type but I wanted something better. I got a Herpstat. I liked it. To make a long story short I worked my way up to the Herpstat Pro. I LOVE it. The Pro lets me monitor each of my shelves individuality and tweek each shelve's temperature to what I want it to be. I got it directly from spyder robotics and the owner (I forget his name) was very very helpful. I think I can honestly say that spyder robotics has the best customer service I have ever had in a company. They went out of their way to make sure I was happy. I would recommend them 100%
This is the first time I have heard of the VE-300 or the Hydrofarm. I might have to check them out but I doubt that I will switch.
P.s I like the other Herpstats but since I have a far number of snakes I wanted to be able to monitor each shelf. If you have a small number of snakes the other Herpstats are fantastic as well. LOL I didn't mention I have 2 herpstat Pro's.