I bought one for about $60 that goes just over 1000 (I've only ever exceeded the range when pointing right at the fire), I do reach temps over 900 but really you probably are interested in hearth and lower dome temps primarily. And I think for pizza the only temp that matters is the hearth temp (probably only important as you are learning your oven's character), for retained heat the temp is not this high anyhow. The lower dome temps are useful to look at but when you are sustained over 900 the dome whitens, and although you can see the temp rise before this your oven likely is not ready until the whole dome whitens.
Bottom line, a lower range thermometer should be fine. I suggest if you have been looking at cooking thermometers you go look at the automotive and heating and A/C supply websites as these thermometers don't carry the same premium and do the job just fine, usually also more temperature range options so you might find one that suits you just fine. |