The top bar hive is simple and does not feature a vertical build like the Langstroth. Ancient beekeeping methods inspired it, but the modern top bar hive design was developed in the 20th century. Its design is still used around the world today. In some ways, this hive is easier to maintain because it’s not stacked. Therefore, beekeepers only need to take off the cover and lift out each hexagon-shaped frame to harvest honey
The pro of this hive is that it doesn’t disturb the colony as much as a box (Langstroth)-style would. Harvesting honey is a less intrusive process and does not require lifting multiple levels and pulling them apart. This hive also doesn’t need extra parts, unlike the Langstroth, but that means routine maintenance and upkeep from beekeepers to maintain production. It’s a simplistic design, but it takes more work in the long run.