Orchid Pots

[HiOrcDen]

Hi all... just a basic question:

Is it very advantageous to use orchid pots, with the side slits, vs regular flower pots? I do like to be able to see the roots, for practical and aesthetic reasons. Though again, does using Orchid pots justify the extra cost, as far as, does it improve the plants' conditions? And then, how do pots compare to the pond baskets?

And how do Orchid pots compare to clay pots? On that note, I know that cheap clay pots break easier, but other than that, are they as effective as higher quality pots, for moisture and air circulation?