Orpingtons VS. Australorps?

[breezy]

I am planning on getting just a couple of backyard hens for both eggs and as pets. I originally decided on buff orpingtons but am having a great deal of trouble finding what I want locally at a price that fits my budget. I have a chance to buy a couple of australorps at a great price and exactly the age I was looking for. My question is just how much of a difference is there between the 2 breeds? Which is the better layer and are they equally cold hardy or is one better than the other at doing well in the winter. I read that the orpingtons are pretty good at laying all winter long...is this true of the australorp as well.
Any advice or personal experiences that can be shared are much appreciated.
thanks

 

[ghulst]

Only difference is the color.

 

[KatyTheChickenLady]

My Austrolorps are a bit smaller, eat a lot less and put out the same amount of eggs as compared to my Orps. They are both very nice personalities but my Austrolorps are especially sweet and personable. I too thought I only wanted Orps in the beginning but am glad I now have my Austrolorps. In fact just bought some new babies yesterday. I would get them if I were you!!!

 

[breezy]

Thanks guys.

I appreciate it, I think I will get them.

 

[Three_Blessings]

I have both and I am more partial to orps. I think they are prettier to look at!

 

[speckledhen]

The Australorp has been called "the poor man's Orpington". They are similar in many ways, both great breeds. Think "Australian Orpington===Austra-Lorp"

 

[glowworm]

My australorp is prettier. She loves food and is smarter than the rest when it comes to figuring out how to get some.

My buff orp is friendlier and likes to be held.

Both lay well, the australorp's eggs are bigger even though the chickens are the same size.

 

[bwebb7]

My astralorp is the sweetest girl! I love my bo too but I have 6black astralorps and love them all!

 

[jossanne]

According to my McMurray catalog, australorps hold the record for most eggs laid in a year. I think it said one laid 364 eggs in 365 days...

I'm sure that's not common with australorps, but an interesting tidbit.

 

[digitS']

I've had both and return for the Australorp.

The Buff Orpingtons were not as good with egg production but I enjoyed their quiet ways.

Steve