Functionally, they have to all be the same. But, esthetically there is a difference. I think, from looking at the photos, the "type 1" is a more direct copy of the ADA unit, while the "type 2" is produced by a different glass blower, and less effort was put into matching the appearance of the ADA unit. The teardrop shaped one is still another glass blower's interpretation of the idea. It looks very good, but I doubt it having as fast a response to changes in tank water CO2, since it seems to have a much smaller tank water interface (no "horn" to increase the surface area of the tank water being interfaced.) That last one would be much easier to load with water and indicator solution, and might satisfy some people much more for that reason. It is pretty hard to get the water and indicator into the "type 1" verson, and nearly impossible without a syringe with a bent "needle".
What is encouraging about this is that apparently this fellow in Hong Kong is selling these well enough to branch out into other versions. Maybe our discussions involving ppm of CO2 in the water will become more meaningful as more people use these. |