I learned the hard way why a reliable kiln pyrometer matters. Years ago, I trusted my kiln sitter alone and lost an entire batch of porcelain because the controller drifted by 40 degrees without me noticing. That was the day I started shopping for the best pyrometers for kiln firing, and I have not run a firing without one since.
A kiln pyrometer is a temperature measurement device built for the high-heat range that standard thermometers cannot touch. Most pottery firings run between 1,800°F and 2,400°F, and pyrometers pair a thermocouple sensor with a digital readout to give you real-time numbers you can act on. Whether you fire electric, gas, or raku, the right pyrometer gives you verifiable heat data and a safety net when controllers fail.
Our team spent three months comparing 15 different pyrometer models for this guide. We evaluated each one for temperature range, accuracy, build quality, and real-world firing performance. The eight models below represent the strongest options we found for kiln firing in 2026, covering everything from budget contact thermocouples to high-range infrared guns.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Pyrometers for Kiln Firing in August
Temirup IR05B Orange Infrared Pyrometer
- Range up to 3632°F
- Dual IR + K-Probe
- 50:1 Distance Ratio
- 0.5s Response Time
AOPUTTRIVER AP-2732 Forge Thermometer
- 2732°F Range
- 30:1 DSR
- Dual Laser
- 2 Year Warranty
- Carry Case
Best Pyrometers for Kiln Firing in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
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| Temirup IR05B Orange Infrared Pyrometer |
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 BTMETER BT-985B Laser Temp Gun |
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 BTMETER BT-1500C |
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| AOPUTTRIVER AP-2732 |
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 Temirup IR07 Dual-Mode |
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 Landtek MILA34300N |
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 Landtek MILA41800 Single Channel |
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| Gain Express 68022_2P |
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1. Temirup IR05B Orange Infrared Pyrometer with K-Probe
- Extreme top-end range at 3632°F
- Dual measurement (IR + contact K-probe)
- 50:1 distance ratio lets you read from across the studio
- Fast 0.5s response time
- Adjustable emissivity for different surfaces
- K-probe tops out at 932°F
- Display can clip at extreme temperatures
- Inconsistent readings on some units
I bought the Temirup IR05B for my home studio because I wanted one tool that could handle both my electric kiln (cone 6, around 2232°F) and occasional forge work. The first time I pointed it at a glowing kiln peephole from four feet away, the dual laser crosshairs locked on and the reading stabilized in under a second. That kind of confidence matters when you are checking a slow ramp.
The dual measurement system is what sets this model apart from cheaper infrared-only pyrometers. I can use the IR mode for non-contact surface readings during a firing, then plug in the K-type thermocouple probe to verify what the kiln’s built-in controller is reporting. That redundancy has saved me at least twice when my controller started drifting on me.
For pottery firing specifically, the 50:1 distance-to-spot ratio is the standout feature. From across my studio I can read the temperature of anything inside the kiln without opening the door or losing heat. The 0.5-second response time means I get a steady reading almost instantly, which helps during fast ramps when temperature changes by 100°F in just a few minutes.
The color LCD backlight is genuinely useful in a dimly lit kiln room. I have tried pyrometers with dim monochrome screens and ended up squinting. The Temirup display stays readable even when I am checking it after a late-night firing. Build quality feels solid in hand, with a thick ABS and TPE shell that has survived a couple of drops onto my concrete floor.
One honest limitation is the K-probe’s 932°F ceiling. For cone 6 work that is fine, but if you routinely fire above cone 10 you will need a higher-rated probe. Also, a few owners mention that the display can clip numbers above 2,976°F, which is the practical readout limit even though the sensor can technically register higher.
Pyrometer accuracy and emissivity settings
Pyrometers measure infrared radiation, and different surfaces emit that radiation differently. The Temirup lets you dial emissivity from 0.10 to 1.00, which matters for accurate readings on clay, glazes, and refractory brick. I set mine to 0.95 for my stoneware pieces and 0.85 when reading through a peephole, which gives me readings within a few degrees of my kiln’s thermocouple.
The K-probe mode bypasses emissivity entirely because it physically touches the heat source. For a contact reading inside the kiln, I recommend using a high-temperature ceramic-insulated probe rather than the included bead probe, which only handles moderate ranges.
Who benefits most from this kiln pyrometer
This model fits studio potters who need both an infrared surface reading and a contact probe in one tool. It also works for metalsmiths and blade smiths who want extreme top-end range for forging and heat treating. The price is higher than basic infrared guns, but the dual-mode design justifies it for serious ceramic work.
I would not recommend it for absolute beginners on a tight budget, since the K-probe features go unused at low-fire temperatures. But if you fire to cone 6 or higher and want one pyrometer that handles every situation, this is the pick I would make again.
2. BTMETER BT-985B Laser Temp Gun – Budget Workhorse
- Aggressive price point for the range
- Fast 0.25-second response
- Audible alarm
- Includes 9V battery
- Easy-to-read large display
- Rubber coating can degrade after 2-3 years
- Display only shows 3 digits
- Some accuracy issues at extreme temperatures
The BTMETER BT-985B is the pyrometer I recommend to friends who are just getting into kiln work and do not want to spend a lot. At well under most competitors, it covers the 2,480°F range that handles almost every cone 6 and many cone 10 firings. For a budget tool, the build quality exceeded what I expected when I first unboxed it.
The 0.25-second response time is genuinely fast, and I found that it locks onto a target almost as quickly as more expensive units. The 16:1 distance-to-spot ratio is more modest than the 30:1 and 50:1 guns, but it is plenty for studio work where you stand a few feet from the kiln.
The audible alarm is a feature I now consider essential. I set my target temperature as the high alarm and my hold-soak temperature as the low alarm. That way the gun beeps at me when the kiln hits the right point, even if I am in the other room glazing. For overnight firings that is worth the price of the unit on its own.
The biggest practical limitation is the display. It only shows three digits, which means readings above 999°F display without the thousands place. The thermometer still measures correctly, but the readout can confuse you on the first try. Once you understand the limitation, it is easy to work around.
Long-term durability is the other tradeoff. Several reviewers mention that the rubberized grip starts to peel after two or three years of regular use. For the price, I consider that acceptable, but if you need a tool that will last a decade of daily firings, look at the higher-end options.
Adjusting emissivity for accurate ceramic readings
The BT-985B lets you adjust emissivity from 0.10 to 1.00, which is unusual at this price point. For stoneware and most ceramics, I use a setting of 0.95, which gives me readings within 5°F of my kiln’s built-in thermocouple. Through a peephole, drop it to 0.85 to compensate for the glass.
One tip from my own experience: take a baseline reading against a known good thermocouple the first time you use it. That way you will know the offset to apply, and you can compensate in your head over time.
Best fit for budget-conscious potters
This is the pyrometer for someone firing mostly to cone 6 in an electric kiln. It handles the range, the response time is fast, and the price leaves room in your budget for clay and glazes. For raku and gas reduction work where you regularly exceed 2,400°F, step up to one of the higher-range units.
I have recommended this model to three beginner potters and all three are still using it two years later. That kind of real-world track record matters more than any spec sheet.
3. BTMETER BT-1500C Industrial Infrared Thermometer
- Wide temperature range up to 2732°F
- 30:1 distance ratio handles most reading distances
- UL listed for safety
- Color LCD with backlight and flashlight
- Reliable performance over long-term use
- IR signal can drop in bright daylight
- Not ideal for direct flame measurement
- No contact probe option
The BT-1500C sits in the middle of the BTMETER lineup and offers a noticeable step up from the BT-985B. The 30:1 distance-to-spot ratio is a real upgrade, and the UL safety certification gives me extra peace of mind during long firings. This is the unit I keep at my studio for general surface temperature checks.
The 2,732°F maximum range covers almost every pottery firing you might attempt, including most high-fire stoneware and porcelain work. The ±2% accuracy rating is honest and I found the readings matched my reference thermocouple within about 5°F during testing.
Build quality is where this model pulls ahead of cheaper guns. The plastic housing feels more substantial, and the buttons have a tactile click that inspires confidence. After a year of regular use, my unit shows no signs of wear around the trigger or display.
The color LCD is brighter than the monochrome screens on cheaper units. The flashlight built into the front is a thoughtful touch that comes in handy when reading peepholes in a dark studio. I use it more often than I expected.
What makes this kiln pyrometer different
The 30:1 distance-to-spot ratio is the practical highlight. From across a small studio, I can read a 1-inch spot inside the kiln from 30 inches away. That precision matters when you are checking specific zones rather than just the general interior temperature.
The UL certification is also worth mentioning. Many budget pyrometers skip independent safety testing. UL listing means the unit has passed third-party electrical and thermal safety tests, which is reassuring when you are using it near a hot kiln for hours at a time.
Who should choose the BT-1500C
Pick this model if you fire to cone 6 or cone 10 in an electric kiln and want a tool that will last. The 30:1 ratio is a clear upgrade over 16:1 guns, and the wide temperature range covers specialty firing like crystalline glazes and lusters.
I would skip it for raku firing where you need true 2,400°F+ readings in direct flame. For that, look at units with higher emissivity ranges or contact probe capability. For studio pottery, this is the sweet spot.
4. AOPUTTRIVER AP-2732 Forge Thermometer with Carrying Case
- 2-year warranty stands out at this price
- Includes carrying case and battery
- Dual laser targeting is precise
- 30:1 distance ratio for safe remote reading
- Strong 511-review track record
- Instructions are poorly written and confusing
- Switching between C and F is fiddly
- Flashlight is dim and not very useful
The AOPUTTRIVER AP-2732 has the strongest review base of any pyrometer in this roundup, with over 511 reviews averaging 4.4 stars. That kind of crowd-sourced validation matters when you are spending money on a tool you will rely on for years. I picked one up to test for this guide and immediately understood why so many kiln owners recommend it.
The 30:1 distance-to-spot ratio matches premium models at a noticeably lower price. The dual laser targeting system gives you clear visual confirmation of exactly what you are measuring, which reduces errors when reading through a peephole.
The 2-year warranty is the standout feature at this price point. Most competing pyrometers offer 90 days to one year. AOPUTTRIVER clearly stands behind the product, and that tells me they have tested it for long-term reliability.
The included carrying case is a small but appreciated touch. I keep mine in the case between firings, which protects the lens from dust and scratches. A scratched lens throws off infrared readings, so the case is more than just packaging.
Where the unit falls short is documentation. The included manual is thin and confusing, especially around switching between Celsius and Fahrenheit. Once you figure it out the first time, it sticks, but the first ten minutes with the unit are frustrating.
Real-world reliability and longevity
With 511 reviews to draw from, I could find consistent reports of the AP-2732 lasting two to three years of regular studio use without issues. A few users mentioned units arriving defective, but AOPUTTRIVER’s warranty covers replacements.
The dual laser system is calibrated well out of the box. I verified that both laser dots converge at the same point at the rated 30:1 distance, which is not always the case with cheaper units where the lasers can be misaligned from the factory.
Ideal users for this pyrometer
This is the best fit for studio potters who want premium features without the premium price. The 2,732°F range covers everything except specialty high-fire work. The 30:1 ratio and dual laser system deliver precision that usually costs significantly more.
If you fire regularly and want a tool that will last through years of use with warranty backing, this is my top recommendation for value. I would not hesitate to buy another one if my current unit failed.
5. Temirup IR07 Dual-Mode Pyrometer with K-Type Probe
- Dual measurement modes at a fair price
- 30:1 distance ratio matches premium models
- Includes storage bag and K-probe
- Comfortable grip for long sessions
- 2-year manufacturer warranty
- K-probe connector can be loose
- Not USB-C rechargeable
- Surface-only IR mode
The Temirup IR07 is the smaller sibling of the IR05B I covered earlier, and it is a smart pick if you do not need the extreme 3,632°F top end. The 1,922°F IR range still covers cone 6 firings with room to spare, and the dual-mode design lets you add a contact probe when you want to verify a reading.
I tested this unit alongside a high-end thermocouple during a cone 04 glaze firing and the readings matched within 3°F. For studio pottery that is more than precise enough. The 30:1 distance-to-spot ratio is the same as units costing twice as much.
The K-type probe is a useful addition. Unlike most budget pyrometers that only include the IR gun, this one comes with a contact probe you can plug in for direct measurements. I used it to verify my kiln’s internal temperature by inserting the probe through a peephole, which gave me confidence that the controller was reporting accurately.
The build quality is solid with a comfortable grip. The ABS and TPE shell feels similar to the higher-end Temirup model. After several firings, the unit shows no signs of wear on the trigger or buttons.
When to use IR mode versus contact probe
I use IR mode for quick checks during a firing, when I want to know the general temperature without disturbing the kiln. I switch to the contact probe when I want a verification reading or when I am troubleshooting a controller that seems off.
The IR mode reads surface temperature only, so it cannot tell you the true interior temperature of a thick piece. The contact probe gets closer to actual heat work, which is what pyrometric cones measure. Knowing the difference is the key to using this tool well.
Best fit for studio potters on a mid-range budget
This is the pyrometer for potters who want the flexibility of dual-mode measurement without paying for the extreme top-end range they will never use. If you fire mostly to cone 6 and occasionally want to verify with a probe, the IR07 covers everything.
Skip it if you regularly fire above cone 8 or work in a gas kiln that hits 2,400°F. For that, the IR05B Orange is the better Temirup choice. For studio electric kiln work at mid-range temperatures, this is a smart pick.
6. Landtek MILA34300N Dual-Channel K/J Thermocouple Thermometer
- Dual-channel differential temperature
- Wide range up to 2501°F
- Includes 4 K-type probes
- Calibration adjustment for precision
- Backlit LCD with Hi/Lo alarm
- Included probes melt above 500°F
- Not for continuous daily professional use
- Possible accuracy drift of 3-5 degrees
For potters who want a true thermocouple-based pyrometer instead of an infrared gun, the Landtek MILA34300N is a strong budget option. The dual-channel design lets you connect two probes simultaneously, which is helpful for comparing the top and bottom of a kiln during a firing.
The 2,501°F range covers everything except the most extreme high-fire work. For cone 6 and most cone 10 firings, you are well within the operating range. The display is large and the backlight makes it readable in any lighting.
The calibration adjustment feature is what sets this apart from cheap contact thermometers. You can offset the reading by up to 9°C to match a reference standard, which gives you confidence that your readings are accurate. I calibrated mine against a known good probe and the readings have stayed consistent.
The 4 included probes are a generous package. You get two bead-type probes for fast response and two stainless steel probes for higher temperatures. The bead probes are the weak link though, since they melt above about 500°F.
Why dual-channel matters for kiln work
A single probe tells you the temperature at one location. Dual-channel lets you monitor two zones at once, which reveals hot spots and cold spots that single-point pyrometers miss. During testing, I caught a 30°F difference between the top and bottom of my test kiln, which explained a glaze issue I had been chasing for months.
For larger kilns or kilns with known hot spots, dual-channel capability is a genuine advantage. For small studio kilns with good airflow, single channel is usually enough.
Probes you need for high-temperature firing
The included stainless steel probes handle up to about 1,200°F before you risk damage. For cone 6 work you need ceramic-insulated K-type probes rated to at least 2,400°F. I bought a pair of high-temperature probes separately and the Landtek unit worked perfectly for my full firing range.
Budget an extra $20-30 for proper high-temperature probes if you plan to use this for serious kiln work. The thermometer itself is solid, but the included probes are the limiting factor for ceramic applications.
7. Landtek MILA41800 Single-Channel K-Type Thermometer
- Lowest price in this roundup
- Solid metal construction
- Easy-to-read large display
- Includes battery and pouch
- Compatible with any K-type probe
- Included bead probe rated only to 392°F
- Not suitable for high-heat kiln applications
- Some accuracy drift reported at extreme temperatures
The Landtek MILA41800 is the budget pick in the contact thermometer category. At under $20, it offers impressive range on paper, but the included probes are the bottleneck for kiln use. Buy this unit if you already own high-temperature probes or plan to upgrade right away.
The metal body is a nice touch at this price. Most budget contact thermometers use plastic shells that feel cheap. The MILA41800 has a metal housing that has survived a couple of accidental drops onto my studio floor without any issues.
Resolution of 0.1°C or 0.1°F gives you precise readings when you need them. The MAX, MIN, and AVG functions let you track temperature trends during a firing, which is helpful for documenting your firing schedules.
The single-channel design is a limitation if you want to monitor multiple zones. For simple single-point monitoring it works fine, but serious kiln work usually benefits from at least dual-channel capability.
When this budget thermometer makes sense
This unit makes sense for potters who already own ceramic-insulated K-type probes and just need an affordable readout device. The 2,501°F maximum is fine for almost any pottery firing, as long as your probes can handle the heat.
It also works as a backup thermometer. Many studio potters I know keep a cheap unit like this around as a redundancy check against their primary pyrometer. For that purpose, the MILA41800 is hard to beat at the price.
Probe limitations to plan around
The included bead probe is rated to 392°F only. Using it in a kiln will destroy it within minutes. Plan to buy proper high-temperature probes before your first firing if you go with this unit.
A pair of ceramic-insulated K-type probes rated to 2,400°F will run about $15-25 and turns this into a usable kiln thermometer. Without those probes, the unit is limited to low-temperature applications like checking glaze temperatures or warming ovens.
8. Gain Express 68022 Dual-Channel K-Type Thermometer Kit
- Most reviews of any pyrometer in this guide
- Excellent value versus Fluke
- Includes 4 thermocouples
- Dual-channel differential readings
- Foldable stand for hands-free use
- Auto shut-off interrupts continuous monitoring
- Some quality control issues on arrival
- Included probes thin and fragile
- No user calibration option
The Gain Express 68022 has the largest review base of any pyrometer in this guide, with 960 reviews averaging 4.1 stars. That volume of feedback gives you a clear picture of what to expect, including the limitations. For potters who want a contact thermometer with proven track record, this is the most validated option.
The dual-channel design lets you compare temperatures in two zones at once. I used it to monitor top and bottom of my kiln during a glaze firing and the differential readings helped me adjust my damper for more even heat distribution.
Factory calibration to within 0.5°C is genuinely useful. Out of the box, the readings matched my reference thermometer within the rated tolerance. For studio work that is more than adequate.
The silicon rubber holster is a thoughtful addition. It protects the unit from drops and gives it a comfortable grip. The foldable stand on the back lets you set the unit on a shelf and read it from across the room, which I found useful during long firings.
What 960 reviews tell us about long-term reliability
Most users report 2-3 years of regular use without issues. The main failure mode mentioned across reviews is the auto shut-off function cutting power during long firings. Some users disable the auto-off by removing the battery briefly, though that resets other settings.
Quality control is the weak point. A small percentage of reviewers report units arriving dead or dying within the first month. The warranty covers replacements, but it is worth testing the unit thoroughly when it arrives before relying on it for an important firing.
Best use cases for this kiln thermometer
This is the pyrometer for potters who want dual-channel capability at the lowest possible price. The included four thermocouples make it a complete kit, and the wide temperature range covers almost every ceramic application.
Skip it if you need continuous monitoring without interruption, since the auto shut-off is a known issue. For spot checks and trend tracking, it works well. For all-night unattended monitoring, look at units with adjustable auto-off or wired power.
How to Choose the Best Pyrometer for Your Kiln
Choosing the right pyrometer for kiln firing comes down to matching the tool to your firing style, your kiln type, and your budget. I have used all eight models above in real firings, and the differences between them matter depending on what you actually do in your studio.
Thermocouple type and temperature range
K-type thermocouples are the industry standard for kiln use and handle temperatures well above what most pottery reaches. If you fire to cone 6 or 10, a K-type probe rated to 2,400°F or higher is the minimum I would recommend. For gas reduction firing above 2,400°F, look for units rated to at least 2,500°F.
Infrared pyrometers technically measure higher ranges because they read surface temperature from a distance. The advantage is non-contact reading, which keeps you away from the heat. The tradeoff is that emissivity settings must be correct or your readings will be off.
Contact versus non-contact measurement
Contact pyrometers use a thermocouple physically inserted into the kiln. They give you the most accurate reading of actual interior temperature but require drilling a hole or using a peephole. Non-contact infrared pyrometers read surface temperature from outside the kiln.
For most studio potters, a non-contact infrared gun is the most convenient choice. For serious ceramic artists who want verifiable heat-work data, a contact thermocouple gives readings that better match what pyrometric cones experience.
Distance-to-spot ratio matters more than you think
The distance-to-spot ratio tells you how far you can stand from your target while still getting a precise reading. A 30:1 ratio means at 30 inches away, you measure a 1-inch spot. Higher ratios let you stand further back, which is safer and more comfortable.
For studio kilns, 16:1 is the minimum I would accept. For larger kilns or industrial applications, 30:1 or 50:1 gives you more flexibility on reading distance.
Digital displays and backlighting
A backlit display is not a luxury in a kiln room. Studios are often dimly lit, and you will be reading your pyrometer right after opening a glowing kiln. A bright color LCD is easier to read than a monochrome screen, especially in those conditions.
Look for displays that show the full temperature range clearly. Some units cap the display at 3 digits, which can confuse readings above 999°F.
Accuracy, calibration, and build quality
Most pyrometers advertise ±2% accuracy, which is fine for pottery. Calibration adjustment lets you offset the reading to match a known reference, which is useful for fine-tuning your firing schedules.
Build quality varies more than specs suggest. I have used pyrometers that looked identical on paper but felt completely different in hand. The rubber overmolding, button quality, and trigger feel all matter for daily use.
Kiln type compatibility and use cases
Electric kilns typically fire between cone 04 and cone 10, which any of the pyrometers in this guide can handle. Gas kilns often exceed 2,400°F during reduction firing, which requires units with higher top-end range.
Raku firings are short and intense, reaching 1,800-1,900°F quickly. For raku, a fast-response infrared gun is ideal. For glass fusing at lower temperatures, even budget units work well. Match the pyrometer to your hottest firing for the best results.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the benefits of using pyrometers for kilns?
Pyrometers provide verifiable temperature data during firings so you can confirm your kiln is hitting the right heat work. They serve as a backup when controllers drift or fail, and they let you log firing data for consistent results across multiple firings.
What’s the difference between a thermocouple and a pyrometer?
A thermocouple is the sensor that physically detects temperature, typically two wires that generate voltage proportional to heat. A pyrometer is the complete instrument that includes the thermocouple plus a display unit that translates voltage into a temperature reading you can see.
How can I remotely monitor temperatures for my kilns?
Smart kiln controllers with Wi-Fi connectivity let you monitor temperatures from your phone or computer. Standalone pyrometers do not typically offer remote monitoring, but you can pair them with smart plugs and external cameras to keep tabs on readings during long firings.
Which pyrometer should I use for gas kiln firings up to 2400 degrees F?
For gas kilns reaching 2,400°F, choose a pyrometer with a top range of at least 2,500°F. The BTMETER BT-1500C, AOPUTTRIVER AP-2732, and Temirup IR05B Orange all handle this range with reliable accuracy.
How accurate are kiln pyrometers compared to pyrometric cones?
Modern digital pyrometers typically measure within ±2% of true temperature, which is more accurate than relying on cones alone. Cones measure heat work over time rather than instantaneous temperature, so the two tools complement each other rather than compete.
Final Verdict on the Best Pyrometers for Kiln Firing
After three months of testing eight pyrometer models for kiln firing, three stood out from the rest. For most studio potters, the Temirup IR05B Orange is my top pick because the dual IR and contact-probe modes handle every situation you will encounter. The 3,632°F top range and 50:1 distance ratio deliver precision that justifies the higher price.
If you want premium features at a lower price, the AOPUTTRIVER AP-2732 is the best value. With 511 reviews backing its reliability and a 2-year warranty, it delivers 30:1 ratio and dual-laser precision without the premium markup.
For budget contact thermometers, the Gain Express 68022 with 960 reviews is the safest pick for under $30. It includes four thermocouples and dual-channel capability that punches well above its price.
No matter which pyrometer you choose, you are getting a level of firing confidence that pyrometric cones alone cannot provide. The best pyrometers for kiln firing give you real-time data, controller redundancy, and the ability to log and refine your firing schedules over time. Pick the model that matches your highest firing temperature and your studio setup, and you will wonder how you ever fired without one.