You don't know if you'll stick with hydroponics, and you don't want to spend $80 on parts to find out. This starts with what's already in your kitchen.
WHAT'S INSIDE:
7 real builds, each from a household item: mason jar, wine bottle, plastic bottle, storage tote, 5-gallon bucket, rain gutter, and yogurt cups.
A food-safety check by plastic resin code, so you know which containers are safe to reuse before you start.
Exact parts list and sizing for the two builds with real specs: 5-gallon bucket DWC and rain gutter NFT (air pump size, channel slope).
One shared reference section for every build: nutrient and pH cheat sheet, weekly routine, and a quick-diagnosis table.
Closing:
Pick whichever container is closest to your hand right now. That's the build to start tonight, not the one you'd need to order first.