What are the advantages/disadvantages of ridge versus roof vents?

Not much difference in functionality – it just looks better because it is less visible.

The ridge vent empties heat buildup from both sides of the attic. Roof vents further down on the roof slope need to be installed on both sides of the roof, and leave the area up from them to the ridge pole with a bit of dead air that can get pretty hot if you are walking around in the attic in the summer.

I have a long ridge vent but still have the end and soffit vents. The ridge vent is completely closed up during heavy snow.

@worriedguy The gable-end vents are probably plenty during heavy snow. In really cold areas, it’s common to put covers over vents anyway to better retain heat.

Ventilation is better with ridge vents! Good ventilation is good for the roof and your energy bills! When i was an insurance adjuster, would see roof only 6 years old and they were worn out due to poor ventilation!

ridge vents look better. Those turbines will wear out or get blown off the roof eventually.