If you’re searching for the 15 best infrared thermometers to accurately measure your baking stone’s temperature, I recommend models like the ThermoPro TP30, Kizen IR thermometer, and Etekcity laser gun. They offer fast, precise readings, adjustable emissivity, and wide temperature ranges suitable for high-heat baking. Many feature laser pointers and backlit displays, making them easy to use. Keep in mind factors like distance-to-spot ratio and calibration, which are essential; I’ll share more details if you continue.
Key Takeaways
- Look for models with a wide temperature range (up to 1472°F) for precise baking stone monitoring.
- Choose infrared thermometers with adjustable emissivity for accurate readings on various stone surfaces.
- Opt for devices with a high distance-to-spot ratio (e.g., 12:1) for measuring small or uneven baking stones from a safe distance.
- Prioritize thermometers with fast response times (<500 ms) for real-time temperature tracking during baking.
- Ensure the thermometer has a clear, backlit LCD display and laser targeting for easy, accurate aiming in different lighting conditions.
ThermoPro TP30 Infrared Thermometer Gun
If you’re serious about baking, the ThermoPro TP30 Infrared Thermometer Gun is an excellent tool to help you achieve perfect results. It uses advanced thermopile sensor technology to measure surface temperatures quickly and accurately within ±1.5%. With an adjustable emissivity of 0.1 to 1.0, it can be tailored to different baking surfaces, ensuring precise readings. Its wide temperature range from -58°F to 1022°F lets you monitor everything from cold dough to hot oven stones. Responding in under 500 milliseconds, it allows fast, safe measurements from a distance. The backlit LCD makes it easy to read in any lighting, and it’s powered by common AAA batteries.
Best For: home bakers and cooking enthusiasts seeking quick, accurate surface temperature measurements to perfect their baking results.
Pros:
- Provides rapid readings within 500 milliseconds for efficient temperature monitoring.
- Adjustable emissivity from 0.1 to 1.0 ensures compatibility with various baking surfaces.
- Backlit LCD display offers clear visibility in any lighting condition.
Cons:
- Not suitable for measuring human body temperature.
- Requires two AAA batteries, which need replacement over time.
- Limited to surface temperature measurement, cannot assess internal or core temperatures.
Kizen Infrared Temperature Gun for Surface and Air Temperature Measurement
The Kizen Infrared Temperature Gun is an excellent choice for both professional bakers and serious home cooks who need quick, accurate surface and air temperature readings. It measures temperatures from -58°F to 1112°F (-50°C to 600°C), making it versatile across many surfaces such as pizza stones, ovens, and grills. With a simple aim-and-trigger operation, you get instant results displayed on a backlit LCD screen, even in low-light conditions. Its adjustable emissivity suits various materials, ensuring precision. Whether checking oven temp or monitoring equipment, this infrared gun provides reliable, fast measurements—an essential tool for achieving perfect baking results.
Best For: professional chefs, HVAC technicians, and serious home cooks seeking quick, accurate surface and air temperature measurements for a variety of surfaces and environments.
Pros:
- Provides precise temperature readings from -58°F to 1112°F (-50°C to 600°C).
- Easy to use with a simple aim-and-trigger operation and a clear backlit LCD display.
- Adjustable emissivity allows for accurate measurements across different materials and surfaces.
Cons:
- Not suitable for human body temperature measurement.
- Requires batteries (2 AAA) which need replacement over time.
- Maintaining a 14-inch distance is recommended for optimal accuracy, which may be inconvenient in tight spaces.
Etekcity Infrared Thermometer Laser Temperature Gun 774
The Etekcity Infrared Thermometer Laser Temperature Gun 774 stands out as an ideal choice for bakers who need quick, accurate temperature readings without contact. Its classic design feels comfortable in hand, with a clear, backlit LCD for easy readings. Capable of measuring from -50°C to 450°C (-58°F to 842°F), it’s versatile enough for oven, grill, or stone surface temps. The laser pointer ensures precise targeting, while adjustable emissivity allows for surface-specific accuracy. With a response time of just 0.5 seconds and an accuracy within ±2%, it’s perfect for quickly checking baking stone temperatures, ensuring your baked goods turn out just right.
Best For: bakers and culinary enthusiasts who need quick, accurate non-contact temperature measurements of oven, stone, or baking surfaces.
Pros:
- Fast response time of 0.5 seconds for instant readings
- Adjustable emissivity for surface-specific accuracy
- Clear backlit LCD display for easy visibility in any lighting
Cons:
- Limited temperature range up to 450°C (842°F), not suitable for extremely high-temperature applications
- Requires manual aiming with laser pointer, which may need precision for small targets
- Accuracy within ±2% may not be sufficient for highly precise scientific measurements
ThermoPro Infrared Thermometer Gun with Laser Pointer
The ThermoPro Infrared Thermometer Gun with Laser Pointer stands out for its dual-function design, combining a temperature gun and an instant-read thermometer to suit a variety of culinary and repair needs. It measures from -58°F to 1022°F with its infrared laser, making it perfect for food prep, auto maintenance, and home repairs. The device features a 12:1 distance-to-spot ratio, enabling safe, accurate readings from a distance, plus a fast response time of just 0.5 seconds. Its adjustable emissivity and backlit LCD display ensure precise measurements in different conditions. The long probe and safety lock make it user-friendly and safe, whether grilling or working on repairs.
Best For: Home cooks, professional chefs, auto mechanics, and DIY enthusiasts seeking quick, accurate, and safe temperature readings across various surfaces and environments.
Pros:
- Dual-function design combines infrared thermometer and instant-read meat thermometer for versatile use
- Wide measurement range from -58°F to 1022°F suitable for multiple applications
- Fast response time of just 0.5 seconds with a clear backlit LCD display for easy reading
Cons:
- Requires careful adjustment of emissivity for optimal accuracy on different surfaces
- Longer probe may be cumbersome for precise tasks in tight spaces
- Battery life could be limited with frequent use of the backlit display and auto shut-off feature
KNINE OUTDOORS Infrared Thermometer Laser Temperature Gun
If you’re looking for an infrared thermometer that offers both accuracy and safety, the KNINE OUTDOORS Infrared Thermometer Laser Temperature Gun is an excellent choice. It measures from -58℉ to 1112℉, making it versatile for baking, oven checks, and even pool maintenance. The single laser ensures precise aiming, while the 12:1 distance-to-spot ratio allows safe measurement from a distance, ideal for hard-to-reach spots. Its eye-protect LCD screen displays clear readings with reduced eye strain. Plus, you can easily switch between Celsius and Fahrenheit and adjust emissivity for accurate results across different materials. It runs on two AAA batteries for convenience.
Best For: DIY enthusiasts, professional chefs, and pool maintenance workers seeking accurate, safe, and versatile temperature readings.
Pros:
- Wide temperature measurement range from -58℉ to 1112℉ for diverse applications
- Precise aiming with a single laser and a 12:1 distance-to-spot ratio for safe, accurate measurements
- Adjustable emissivity and easy switch between ℃ and ℉ for tailored, accurate readings across different materials
Cons:
- Requires two AAA batteries, which may need frequent replacement with regular use
- May be less effective for extremely reflective or shiny surfaces without proper emissivity adjustment
- LCD screen might be difficult to read in very bright or low-light conditions
ERICKHILL Infrared Thermometer Gun with Meat Probe
When I need quick and accurate temperature readings during baking or grilling, the ERICKHILL Infrared Thermometer Gun with Meat Probe stands out as an ideal tool. It’s a versatile 2-in-1 device that combines a digital meat thermometer with an IR laser temperature gun, making it perfect for both surface and internal measurements. Its easy-to-hold design, durable ABS shell, and foldable 180° probe add convenience. With a high-precision sensor, it measures temperatures from 0°F to 1022°F within half a second, providing fast, reliable results. Whether checking a baking stone or grilling meat, this thermometer adapts effortlessly to various tasks.
Best For: home chefs, grilling enthusiasts, and professionals seeking quick, accurate surface and internal temperature measurements.
Pros:
- Combines infrared laser and probe for versatile temperature readings
- Fast and precise measurement within 0.5 seconds, up to 1022°F
- Durable, ergonomic design with foldable probe for easy handling and storage
Cons:
- Requires batteries, which may need frequent replacement
- May be less effective in extremely humid or dusty environments
- The infrared sensor might have limited accuracy on shiny or reflective surfaces
Etekcity Infrared Thermometer Temperature Gun
Etekcity’s Infrared Thermometer Temperature Gun stands out for its quick and accurate readings, making it ideal for anyone who needs to monitor surface temperatures precisely and efficiently. It measures from -58°F to 1130°F (-50°C to 610°C) and delivers results in just 0.5 seconds. The device features a laser targeting system and an adjustable emissivity from 0.1 to 1.0, ensuring accurate readings on various surfaces. Its backlit LCD screen with unit conversion and 15-second auto-off add convenience. Whether for baking, cooking, or household maintenance, this thermometer provides a safe, reliable way to monitor temperature without contact.
Best For: Home cooks, pet owners, and household maintenance enthusiasts seeking quick, precise surface temperature readings without contact.
Pros:
- Provides rapid results within 0.5 seconds for efficient temperature monitoring
- Adjustable emissivity from 0.1 to 1.0 for accurate readings on various surfaces
- Features a laser targeting system and backlit LCD for ease of use in different environments
Cons:
- Limited to surface temperature measurement; cannot determine internal temperature
- Requires batteries, which may need replacement over time
- May be less accurate on highly reflective or shiny surfaces without proper emissivity adjustment
SMART JERRY Infrared Thermometer Gun with Backlit Display
The SMART JERRY Infrared Thermometer Gun with Backlit Display is an excellent choice for bakers and grillers who need quick, accurate surface temperature readings in any lighting condition. Its non-contact design guarantees hygienic measurements of ovens, pizza, meat, or BBQ surfaces without probes, and the infrared laser provides precise targeting. With a wide temperature range from -58°F to 788°F and an accuracy of ±1.5°F, it’s perfect for baking and grilling. The backlit LCD display makes readings easy to see in low light, and the instant response within half a second keeps your workflow efficient. Powered by two AAA batteries, it also features auto shut-off for convenience.
Best For: home chefs, bakers, and grillers seeking quick, accurate, and hygienic surface temperature measurements in any lighting condition.
Pros:
- Non-contact measurement ensures hygienic and probe-free operation
- Wide temperature range (-58°F to 788°F) suitable for various cooking and industrial tasks
- Backlit LCD display provides easy reading in low light environments
Cons:
- Designed only for inanimate objects; cannot be used on humans or animals
- Accuracy is ±1.5°F, which may not be sufficient for highly precise scientific applications
- Requires batteries (included) and automatic shut-off may turn off device during quick measurements
MESTEK Infrared Thermometer Gun with Color LCD
For bakers and culinary professionals who need quick, accurate temperature readings without contact, the MESTEK Infrared Thermometer Gun with Color LCD is an excellent choice. It measures from -58°F to 1472°F, making it perfect for monitoring baking stone temperatures. The device features a 13-point laser for precise targeting, adjustable emissivity, and a colorful VA LCD with backlight for easy reading. It quickly displays ambient conditions, dew point, and surface temperatures with an accuracy of ±1.5%. With modes like MAX/HOLD and safety alarms for spoilage and temperature differences, it guarantees reliable, safe measurements across various baking and cooking applications.
Best For: culinary professionals and bakers who need quick, accurate non-contact temperature measurements to ensure perfect baking and food safety.
Pros:
- Wide temperature measurement range from -58°F to 1472°F suitable for various culinary tasks
- Precise targeting with 13-point laser guidance for accurate readings on specific surfaces
- Adjustable emissivity for improved accuracy across different materials and surfaces
Cons:
- Not suitable for measuring human or animal body temperatures
- Requires proper aiming and distance to ensure accurate measurements, especially for small objects
- May be less effective on shiny or reflective surfaces without emissivity adjustment
ThermoPro TP450 Dual Laser Infrared Thermometer Gun
If you’re serious about baking and need precise temperature control, the ThermoPro TP450 Dual Laser Infrared Thermometer Gun is an excellent choice. It delivers quick, accurate surface readings within 0.5 seconds, thanks to dual laser pointers and thermopile technology. With a wide measurement range from -58℉ to 1022℉, it’s versatile for various surfaces, though not for human use. The large LCD display is easy to read, even in dim lighting, and adjustable emissivity guarantees accurate results across different materials. Its ergonomic design and 16:1 distance-to-spot ratio make targeting effortless, making it a reliable tool for monitoring baking stone temperatures with precision.
Best For: home bakers and culinary enthusiasts seeking quick, precise surface temperature measurements for baking and cooking.
Pros:
- Delivers accurate readings within 0.5 seconds thanks to dual laser pointers and thermopile technology
- Wide measurement range from -58℉ to 1022℉ suitable for various surfaces
- Large, easy-to-read LCD display with adjustable emissivity for flexible use
Cons:
- Not designed for human temperature measurement or medical use
- Requires 2 AAA batteries, which need replacement over time
- May be less effective for very reflective or shiny surfaces without proper emissivity adjustment
Infrared Thermometer Gun for Cooking (OnniOne Laser Thermometer Gun)
When precision and speed matter in the kitchen, the OnniOne Laser Thermometer Gun stands out as an ideal tool for cooking enthusiasts. It delivers quick, accurate surface temperature readings within half a second, making it perfect for monitoring pizza ovens, griddles, or even maintenance tasks. Its laser targeting ensures precise aiming, while the large LCD display allows easy reading in any lighting condition. Compact and lightweight, it’s easy to handle and comes with a protective case. Just point, shoot, and get reliable measurements—no contact needed. Note, it’s not for human use, but it’s excellent for all your cooking and surface temperature needs.
Best For: home chefs, professional cooks, and maintenance enthusiasts who need quick, accurate surface temperature readings without contact.
Pros:
- Provides rapid, accurate measurements within 0.5 seconds for efficient cooking and maintenance.
- Features a laser targeting system for precise aiming on specific surfaces.
- Compact, lightweight design with a protective case makes it portable and easy to store.
Cons:
- Not suitable for medical or human body temperature measurement.
- Requires batteries (2 AAA) which need replacement over time.
- Limited to surface temperature readings; cannot measure internal or core temperatures.
Infrared Thermometer Non-Contact Digital Laser Temperature Gun
The Infrared Thermometer Non-Contact Digital Laser Temperature Gun stands out with its high accuracy and quick measurement capabilities, making it ideal for both professional and home use. It combines advanced sensor technology with a Fresnel lens to deliver measurements within ±2% accuracy in just half a second. Its 12:1 distance-to-spot ratio allows for safe, long-distance readings. Perfect for cooking, baking, and food safety, it features a built-in laser for precise aiming and a clear LCD display. While it can’t measure human temperature, it’s excellent for monitoring baking stones, grills, and other high-temperature surfaces reliably and efficiently.
Best For: home chefs, professional cooks, and DIY enthusiasts seeking quick, accurate temperature readings for food, cooking, and household tasks.
Pros:
- High accuracy within ±2% in just 0.5 seconds for reliable measurements
- Adjustable emissivity and 12:1 distance-to-spot ratio for versatile use at varying distances
- Built-in laser and large LCD screen for precise aiming and easy reading
Cons:
- Cannot measure human or animal forehead temperature
- Limited to non-contact surface temperature measurements only
- Requires proper calibration for optimal accuracy across different materials
ThermoPro TP420 2-in-1 Instant Read Thermometer
The ThermoPro TP420 2-in-1 Instant Read Thermometer stands out as the ideal choice for bakers and grill enthusiasts who need quick, accurate surface and internal temperature readings. Its dual-function design combines infrared sensing for non-contact surface measurements with a digital probe for internal temperatures, making it versatile across various tasks. It provides readings within ±1.8°F in just 2-3 seconds and covers a wide temperature range from -58°F to 572°F. The large backlit display, waterproof build, and foldable stainless steel probe ensure ease of use and durability. Whether checking a baking stone’s surface or internal meat temperature, this thermometer delivers precise, fast results.
Best For: home cooks, professional chefs, and grilling enthusiasts who require quick, accurate surface and internal temperature measurements for food and household tasks.
Pros:
- Dual-function infrared and digital probe for versatile measurements
- Fast and precise readings within ±1.8°F in just 2-3 seconds
- Large backlit display and waterproof design enhance usability and durability
Cons:
- May be more expensive than single-function thermometers
- Infrared surface measurement can be affected by surface reflectivity or cleanliness
- Requires careful handling of the foldable probe to avoid damage when not in use
Rechargeable Infrared Thermometer Gun for Cooking
A rechargeable infrared thermometer gun is an excellent choice for anyone who needs quick, accurate surface temperature readings without the hassle of replacing batteries. I find it especially useful in the kitchen for checking baking stones, grills, or oven surfaces. The Inkbird model offers a wide temperature range from -58℉ to 1022℉, making it versatile for various cooking tasks. Its colorful display and laser targeting ensure precise readings in under half a second. Plus, the rechargeable lithium battery lasts up to 12 hours, eliminating the need for frequent replacements. One-button control simplifies operation, making it easy to use even when multitasking.
Best For: home cooks, bakers, and grilling enthusiasts who need quick, accurate surface temperature measurements without replacing batteries.
Pros:
- Rechargeable lithium battery lasts up to 12 hours for continuous use
- Fast response time within 0.5 seconds for real-time readings
- Easy one-button operation with a colorful display for clear temperature reading
Cons:
- Supports only Fahrenheit units with no automatic Celsius/Fahrenheit switching
- Cannot measure internal or human body temperatures, limited to surface readings
- Class 2 laser requires careful handling to avoid direct eye exposure
ERICKHILL Rookmax Infrared Thermometer Gun
If you’re looking for a reliable infrared thermometer that combines accuracy with versatility, the ERICKHILL Rookmax Infrared Thermometer Gun is an excellent choice. It covers a wide temperature range from -58°F to 1472°F, making it suitable for kitchen, industrial, and outdoor uses. Its non-contact laser aiming guarantees safe, precise measurements of hot, moving, or hard-to-reach surfaces. The 12:1 distance-to-spot ratio allows you to measure from about 14 inches away, ensuring safety and accuracy. With adjustable emissivity and a large LCD display, it’s easy to use on various materials like metal, stone, or food surfaces, perfect for baking and grilling.
Best For: DIY enthusiasts, professional technicians, and home chefs needing accurate, non-contact temperature measurements for various surfaces indoors and outdoors.
Pros:
- Wide temperature range (-58°F to 1472°F) suitable for diverse applications
- Non-contact laser technology ensures safe and precise measurements of moving or hard-to-reach targets
- Adjustable emissivity and large LCD display enhance usability on different materials and in various lighting conditions
Cons:
- Not intended for human or medical temperature measurement
- Requires careful aiming and distance management for optimal accuracy
- May be less effective on highly reflective shiny surfaces without proper emissivity adjustment
Factors to Consider When Choosing Infrared Thermometers for Baking Stone Temp
When selecting an infrared thermometer for baking, I look at key factors like measurement range and accuracy to guarantee reliable readings. I also consider features like emissivity adjustment and the distance-to-spot ratio to get precise measurements from different surfaces and distances. Finally, ease of use, display clarity, and surface compatibility play a big role in making sure I can quickly and effectively monitor my baking stone temperature.
Measurement Range Accuracy
Choosing an infrared thermometer with an appropriate measurement range is vital for accurately monitoring your baking stone’s temperature. Most baking stones operate between 200°F and 1200°F or higher, so your device should cover this span to prevent inaccurate readings or limitations. High accuracy is essential, ideally within ±1.5°F, to ensure precise control over your baking process. A fast response time, under 500 milliseconds, allows for real-time adjustments during baking. Additionally, verify that the thermometer’s emissivity is adjustable from 0.1 to 1.0, helping you match different stone surfaces for reliable measurements. Finally, a clear, high-resolution display makes it easier to read temperatures at high ranges, reducing errors and improving your baking consistency.
Emissivity Adjustment Features
Adjusting the emissivity setting on an infrared thermometer is essential because different baking stone surfaces reflect and emit infrared energy differently. Proper emissivity adjustment ensures accurate temperature readings across various materials, whether porous, matte, glossy, or reflective. Most high-quality thermometers feature easy controls for adjusting emissivity, typically from 0.1 to 1.0, allowing precise calibration for specific surfaces. If the emissivity isn’t set correctly, measurements can be off by as much as 10-15°F, leading to inaccurate oven or stone temperature readings. This can affect baking performance and results. By choosing a thermometer with adjustable emissivity, you gain better control and confidence that your readings truly reflect the stone’s temperature, ensuring consistent, effective baking outcomes.
Distance-to-Spot Ratio
The distance-to-spot ratio is a critical factor because it determines how precisely you can measure the temperature of your baking stone from a specific distance. A higher ratio means you can measure a smaller area from farther away, improving accuracy. For example, a 12:1 ratio allows you to take a precise reading of a 1-inch spot from 12 inches away. Higher ratios like 16:1 or 50:1 are even better for small surfaces, reducing interference from surrounding areas. Conversely, lower ratios such as 6:1 or 8:1 result in larger measurement spots, which can include unwanted surfaces and skew your readings. Selecting a thermometer with an appropriate ratio ensures you can safely and accurately gauge your baking stone’s temperature without needing to get too close.
Ease of Use & Display
A clear, backlit LCD display is essential because it allows me to read temperatures easily in any lighting condition, whether I’m baking in a bright kitchen or a dimly lit oven. An intuitive interface with simple buttons or triggers makes operation quick and straightforward, reducing the chance of errors. Displaying MAX, MIN, and AVG readings helps me track temperature fluctuations, ensuring my baking stone stays at the right heat. A large, high-contrast screen enhances visibility from a distance, so I don’t need to reposition the device constantly. Readable, user-friendly screens save me time and effort during busy baking sessions, allowing me to focus on perfecting my recipes. Overall, a device with these features makes temperature measurement more efficient and less stressful.
Surface Compatibility Options
How do I guarantee my infrared thermometer accurately measures the temperature of my baking stone? First, I check if it supports adjustable emissivity settings from 0.1 to 1.0. Different stone surfaces, matte or shiny, need specific emissivity adjustments for accurate readings. I also verify that the device can handle high temperatures, at least up to 1022°F (550°C), to match baking conditions. Ensuring compatibility with the surface material is essential—some thermometers are better suited for certain finishes. I look for models with a wide measurement range and adjustable emissivity, so I can adapt to various stones and cooking environments. This way, I get precise, reliable temperature readings, helping me bake with confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do Infrared Thermometers Measure Baking Stone Surface Temperature Accurately?
Infrared thermometers measure baking stone surface temperature accurately by detecting the thermal radiation emitted from the stone’s surface. I aim the device at the stone, keeping a steady distance, then press the trigger to get a reading. The thermometer’s sensor captures the infrared rays and converts them into a temperature display. This method gives me a quick, precise measurement without contact, ensuring my baking stone is at the perfect heat.
Can Infrared Thermometers Detect Internal Temperature of a Baking Stone?
Think of infrared thermometers like a flashlight—they only shine on the surface, revealing what’s visible. I’ve tried measuring my baking stone’s internal temperature, but the device only reads surface heat. For true internal temperature, I rely on a probe thermometer. Infrared tools excel at surface readings, but to know what’s happening inside, I need a different approach. That’s the reality I’ve learned through plenty of baking experiments.
What Is the Ideal Distance-To-Spot Ratio for Measuring Baking Stones?
The ideal distance-to-spot ratio for measuring baking stones is typically 12:1 or higher. This means if you’re holding the thermometer 12 inches away, it can accurately measure a spot about 1 inch in diameter. I recommend staying within this range to get precise readings without interference from surrounding surfaces. Keep a steady distance, and you’ll ensure your baking stone’s temperature is accurately monitored for perfect results.
How Does Ambient Temperature Affect Infrared Thermometer Readings?
Ambient temperature can considerably affect infrared thermometer readings. When the surrounding air is hot, the thermometer might register higher temperatures than the actual baking stone, and vice versa in cooler environments. I always consider the room temperature before measuring, allowing my device a moment to calibrate if needed. This helps guarantee my readings are accurate, giving me confidence that my baking stone is at the perfect temperature for baking.
Are Infrared Thermometers Suitable for Measuring Temperature Through Stone Coatings?
Using an infrared thermometer on stone coatings isn’t ideal, much like trying to read a telegram in a text message. The coating can distort the infrared signals, leading to inaccurate readings. I recommend measuring the temperature of the actual stone beneath or using a thermocouple for more precise results. Infrared thermometers work best on smooth, uncoated surfaces, not through layers that can interfere with the sensor’s accuracy.
Conclusion
Choosing the right infrared thermometer isn’t just about accuracy; it’s about trust. Like a reliable baking stone that transforms raw dough into perfect crust, the best thermometer becomes your culinary partner, blending precision with confidence. Whether you’re aiming for the ideal bake or simply ensuring safety, the right tool bridges the gap between guesswork and mastery. After all, in baking, as in life, precision makes all the difference.
