Choosing the Right Infrared Thermometer for You

There are three basic types of infrared thermometer optics, each with its own advantages and disadvantages: no-lens thermometers, fresnel lens thermometers and mica lens thermometers.

Infrared Lens	Cost	Durability	Temp Range	Optics	Ambient Effect
No Lens	£		Hot	Good
Fresnel Lens	££		Hotter	Better
Mica Lens	£££		Hottest	Best

It is important to give some thought to the intended range of temperature you are likely to measure with your infrared thermometer. For best resolution, choose a thermometer with a specified range that most narrowly covers what you are planning to measure.