Choosing the Right Infrared Thermometer for You

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

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

It is also 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 speci- fied range that most narrowly covers what you are planning to measure.