Australorp
World record egg layer — 364 eggs in 365 days.
Australorp vs Plymouth Rock
Australorps lay more eggs (250-300 vs 200-280) and hold the world record. Plymouth Rocks are slightly friendlier and more curious.
Plymouth Rock
Classic American homestead chicken.
Side-by-side
| Trait | Australorp | Plymouth Rock |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | dual | dual |
| Eggs / year | 280 | 220 |
| Egg color | brown | brown |
| Egg size | large | large |
| Temperament | calm, sweet, shy | docile, friendly, curious |
| Size | large | large |
| Cold-hardy | Yes | Yes |
| Heat-hardy | Yes | Yes |
| Broody | No | Yes |
| Beginner-friendly | Yes | Yes |
| Noise level | quiet | moderate |
Pick Australorp if you…
Want the absolute best brown-egg layer for cold climates with a sweet personality.
Pick Plymouth Rock if you…
Want a dual-purpose homestead bird who's bombproof with kids.
Still can't decide?
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Take the Breed Matcher quizFrequently asked questions
Which lays more, Australorp or Plymouth Rock?
Australorp, they hold the world egg-laying record (364 eggs in 365 days). Plymouth Rocks average 200-280.
Which is more cold-hardy?
Both excellent. Plymouth Rocks have a slight edge thanks to single-comb tolerance and larger body mass.