How to change from smaler to larger netpots safely?

I've got a quick question. So I had my hydro plants growing in smaller net pots. The problem I'm having is the plants grew so quick I now need to get them in larger net pots.
The roots are all tangled in the smaller netpots. What is the best/safest way to transfer them to larger pots? Do I sit for hours and cut away at the older netpot or just drop that pot in the larger pot and surround it with clay pellets?

What size net pots? I would drop the old one into a new bigger one. Why do you need to go larger I grow huge plants in 3" net pots. The roots are strong and will get through the small openings.

I would agree with Creek. I feel like I am wasting a lot of space using 4.5" nets.

My pots now are 3" also. I was watching a video from High times and the guy was suggesting that you replant plants in a 5 gal bucket so maybe that doesn't apply to hydro.

yea man your net pots only have to be as big as the stem of your plant.... dont need to use a larger net pot