Head-to-head · Best Dog Crates

Amazon Basics Portable, Collapsible Metal Wire Dog Crate with Removable Tray, Do vs Petmate Vari Dog Kennel - Portable Dog Carriers & Crates for Large Dogs, Air

Which is the better buy? Side-by-side on rating, price, strengths, and watch-outs — with the published ratings we averaged to get there.

The short answer

Amazon Basics Portable, Collapsible Metal Wire Dog Crate with Removable Tray, Do comes out ahead by a narrow margin (4.5 vs 4.3). The gap is mostly about budget-conscious buyers with small, non-aggressive dogs — read the strengths below before deciding.

Higher ratedRanked #2 in Best Dog Crates

Amazon Basics Portable, Collapsible Metal Wire Dog Crate with Removable Tray, Do

4.5

$49.99as of Jul 8

The Amazon Basics Foldable Metal Wire Dog Crate offers a budget-friendly solution for small dogs and puppies. Reviewers praised its quick setup, portability, and removable tray for easy cleaning. The divider panel helps with potty training, and the single-door design provides secure containment. However, some users noted the wire frame isn't chew-proof and the plastic tray can become brittle with heavy use. This crate is best suited for small breeds under 18 lbs but may not meet the needs of larger or destructive chewers.

Strengths

— Easy to set up and store with no tools required
— Portable design folds flat with a handle for transport
— Includes divider panel for puppy training adjustments

Watch-outs

— Not chew-proof; wire frame is vulnerable to aggressive chewers
— Plastic tray may crack under heavy use

$49.99 · Check Price on Amazon Full review →

Ranked #5 in Best Dog Crates

Petmate Vari Dog Kennel - Portable Dog Carriers & Crates for Large Dogs, Air

4.3

$39.99as of Jul 8

The Petmate Vari Kennel is a hard-sided plastic dog travel crate designed for safety and durability, meeting most IATA requirements for airline cargo travel. Reviewers noted its heavy-duty construction, easy tool-free assembly, and built-in ventilation features. The kennel is praised for its suitability for large dogs and airline-approved design, though larger sizes require extended shipping times and may not fit all vehicle cargo areas. It's recommended for pet parents seeking a reliable, durable crate for both travel and everyday use.

Strengths

— Meets most International Air Transport Association (IATA) requirements for airline travel
— Durable construction with heavy-duty plastic shell and metal grated door
— Easy assembly with no tools required, includes spiral wing nuts and bolts

Watch-outs

— Larger sizes (36" and 40") must ship via LTL/Freight Carrier and arrive in 10-14 business days
— XL size may not fit upright in some vehicle cargo areas

$39.99 · Check Price on Amazon Full review →

How they stack up

Amazon Basics Portable, Collapsible Metal Wire Dog Crate with Removable Tray, Do

The Amazon Basics crate is the most budget-friendly option, but it's not chew-proof like the Impact High Anxiety or Sweetcrispy models. Unlike the EliteField soft crate, it lacks a spacious interior and three doors, and unlike the MidWest Homes, it doesn't include a divider panel. It's a basic wire crate that's good for small dogs but not for aggressive chewers.

Petmate Vari Dog Kennel - Portable Dog Carriers & Crates for Large Dogs, Air

The Petmate Vari meets IATA airline requirements, which the FDW and Sweetcrispy models don't, making it ideal for travel. However, it's heavier than the Diggs Revol and lacks the diamond-shaped safety design. Unlike the Impact High Anxiety crate, it's not escape-proof and doesn't feature a powder-coated aluminum frame. It's a travel-approved hard crate but not the most secure for escape-prone dogs.

Specs side-by-side

Spec	Amazon Basics Portable, Collapsible Metal Wire Dog Crate with Removable Tray, Do	Petmate Vari Dog Kennel - Portable Dog Carriers & Crates for Large Dogs, Air
Dimensions	22.0"L x 13.0"W x 16.0"H	40.000 x 27.000 x 30.000
Weight	9.88 pounds	Up to 31.0 lb
Material	Metal wire	EcoTEC™ Plastic (90% pre-consumer recycled)
Door Type	single-door	Metal grated
Features	Removable tray, divider panel, single door	360 Degree Ventilation, Airline Compliant, Easy to assemble
Usage	indoor use	perfect for both air and car travel
Color	—	Gray/Black

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