My rationale for purchasing an IDOO is simply cost. Aerogardens are very trendy and, therefore, fairly expensive. They do have some nice features, but I didn't really need a beep to tell me when to add water and nutrients. All I need is the tank, the light, the tabletop, and the pump. So I bought an IDOO. If you'd like to read a comparison of the two, go here. If you'd like to read a review of all Aerogarden models, go here.

My first unit, the twelve-hole model, worked very well the first time.

It was easy to assemble and came with everything required, including nutrient solution, net pots, sponges, plastic domes for humidity, and covers for unused holes. It's important to keep the light from shining on the nutrient medium because this induces mold.

Mold is bad.

While we're discussing mold, please note the importance of adding a few drops of hydrogen peroxide to the water. This also helps prevent mold. In two weeks, I had sprouts, and in four, I was harvesting enough for salads and sandwiches every few days. But those tiny bottles of solution wouldn't last forever, and I wanted an alternative to buying their proprietary mix.