You've been potting for a while, you've developed a liking for firing – and now you're wondering which kiln is right for you. Perhaps you've been using the communal kiln in your pottery class, maybe you've inherited an older kiln, or you want to finally become more independent. Whatever brought you here: choosing a kiln is a decision you'll live with for a long time. That's why it's worth making it carefully.
In the German market, two manufacturers dominate the offerings in 2026: Kittec and Pyrotec Brennofenbau. Both stand for solid quality, both offer broad model ranges, and both have equipment suitable for beginners as well as experienced ceramicists. We at Formwerk Berlin work with both manufacturers and present our five current recommendations for 2026 here – with everything you need for an informed decision.
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Kiln Buying Checklist
Before diving into specific models, there are a few questions you should clarify for yourself. They will help you narrow down the selection to the essentials from the start.
A) What kind of power connection do you have? This is often the first and most important technical hurdle. Small kilns up to a maximum of 80 liters often run on a standard 230V Schuko socket – ideal if you're working at home without three-phase power (for example, the Kittec CB Classic-Line). As soon as you aim for more volume or higher temperatures, you'll need a 400V three-phase power connection (CEE 16A or CEE 32A depending on the model). It's best to clarify this with an electrician beforehand, before committing to a model.
B) How large will your pieces be? The volume of a kiln tells you how much you can fire at once, but the internal height and width are also crucial. Typically, they start at 12 liters. A 95-liter top-loader is suitable for most hobby projects: it offers enough space for vases, bowls, and smaller sculptures, is easy to load, and heats evenly. If you regularly fire larger quantities or bulky pieces, it's better to think in terms of 150 liters and more.
C) What types of clay do you want to process? For earthenware and classic low-firing, 1,100 °C is sufficient – many kilns can handle this without problems. If you want to fire stoneware or porcelain, you should definitely opt for a model with reserves up to 1,320 °C. The reason: heating coils that constantly operate at their performance limit wear out quickly. A kiln with some headroom will fire more durably and reliably.
D) How important is the controller to you? Modern controllers like the widely used Bentrup TC66 allow you to program and store custom firing curves with individual heating ramps, hold times, and controlled cooling phases. This is enormously helpful, especially for beginners: you can start with proven standard programs and refine your curves over time. If you want to document your firings, look for models with Wi-Fi connectivity or a USB interface. A larger selection is available here: Controllers for Pyrotec Kilns or Bentrup Controllers for Kittec Kilns
E) And finally: Where will you set up the kiln? Kilns need sufficient distance from flammable materials – manufacturers generally recommend at least 50 cm to the sides and 100 cm to the ceiling. The subfloor should not be flammable. And if you plan glaze firings: venting outdoors is not a "nice-to-have," but strongly recommended for safety reasons.
A word on safety: Kilns are not household appliances – they reach temperatures where mistakes can have serious consequences. Ensure a suitable, non-combustible installation location with sufficient distance from walls and ceiling, provide good ventilation, and always vent exhaust outdoors during glaze firings. Follow the manufacturer's instructions and operating manual. Have electrical connections installed only by a qualified professional. And: Never leave a kiln running unattended – especially during the first firings, until you know its behavior. The information in this article has been compiled to the best of our knowledge but may contain errors. In case of doubt, always refer to the manufacturer's operating manual.
Also important when choosing your kiln:
F) Warranty, spare parts, and delivery time should definitely be factored in. Pyrotec kilns currently have delivery times of 20 weeks or more in retail, while Kittec can be 16–18 weeks depending on the model. This is no reason to panic, but a reason to plan early. When purchasing, specifically ask about warranty conditions and whether spare parts like heating coils or thermocouples are available at short notice.
G) Expandability and accessories are also worth considering. Some models can be retrofitted with an energy-saving package (ESP), an exhaust pipe, or a higher-quality controller – ideal if you start with a solid basic model and want to upgrade later. Firing kits with cordierite shelves, posts, and kiln wash are also often optionally available and save time when starting out.
H) Top-loader or front-loader? Top-loaders are generally more compact, cheaper, and well-suited for smaller studios. You load the kiln from above, which works great for round shapes like vases or bowls. Front-loaders open like a cabinet and allow for more convenient, back-friendly work, especially if you're loading heavy pieces or using the kiln frequently and intensively.
The 5 Best Kilns for Potters in 2026
Place 5: Kittec Classic-Line Gas CBG 160
The only gas kiln on our list – and for good reason. Gas kilns like the Kittec Gas CBG 160 show their strengths in so-called reduction firings: a firing atmosphere where special glaze effects are created by targeted oxygen deprivation, which are almost impossible to reproduce electrically. With 160 liters of firing space and a burner output of 40 kW, it has plenty of power for high-firing temperatures up to 1,320 °C. A CO warning device is standard, an important safety note indicating that this type of kiln places special demands on ventilation. It is a top-loader and the kiln is available in various colors.
The CBG 160 is not really for beginners: gas connection (propane or natural gas), exhaust gas ducting, possible permits, and the necessary basic knowledge of atmospheric firing make it a device for advanced users with the right infrastructure. However, those who meet these requirements get a very versatile tool. The price, depending on configuration, ranges between approx. 4,500 and 7,700 Euros.
Ideal for: Experienced potters with their own studio or workshop space who already fire electrically and want to take the next artistic step towards reduction and atmospheric firings. Not for beginners or apartment ceramicists – but a real asset for anyone who knows what they're doing with it.
Place 4: Pyrotec Profitherm PY 95 HD
The Pyrotec Profitherm PY 95 HD is the answer to a common question: "I want to fire stoneware seriously, but I don't have a huge workshop – what should I get?" With 96 liters of firing space and a maximum temperature of 1,320 °C, it's compact enough for a small studio or a well-ventilated basement, yet offers true high-firing capacity. The "HD" stands for "Heavy Duty" – the kiln is designed for intensive use at high temperatures and is built accordingly robustly.
Pyrotec uses a combination of refractory bricks and Superwool matting for insulation. This ensures good heat retention and mechanically protects the kiln structure. The Pyrotec heating coils are deeply embedded in the bricks, protecting them from damage during loading. Pyrotec offers a 36-month manufacturer's warranty (excluding heating elements and thermocouple). The list price is approximately 3,389 Euros. The PY 95 HD requires a three-phase power connection and weighs almost 75 kg.
Ideal for: Ambitious hobby potters who want to fire stoneware or porcelain seriously but don't have much space. A three-phase power connection is a prerequisite. If you want to start compactly and still not miss out on high-firing, this is the right choice.
Place 3: Kittec Studio-Line CBN 200 S
If you fire regularly – whether for classes, for a small production of your own, or simply because your pottery has become more professional – you'll quickly appreciate the ergonomics of a front-loader. With the Kittec Studio-Line CBN 200 S, you open the door like a cabinet and comfortably load the kiln from the front: no bending over a deep top-loader shaft, no contorting when loading heavy pieces.
With an internal volume of 209 liters, the CBN 200 S is the largest kiln on our list. The three-sided heating ensures a more even temperature distribution than with single-sided heated front-loaders. The safety door switch forcibly disconnects the circuit as soon as the door is opened. The Bentrup TC66 is used as the basic controller, optionally with Wi-Fi. An energy-saving package (ESP) can be retrofitted, as well as a rear exhaust vent. The price varies depending on the equipment between approx. 4,835 and 5,879 Euros.
Ideal for: Potters who fire regularly and in larger quantities – for example, for classes, a small ceramic studio, or their own production. Those who want to work comfortably and let the kiln grow with their practice in the long term will make a very sustainable choice with the CBN 200 S.
Place 2: Pyrotec Profitherm PY 75 H
For those who want to start at home or in a small studio without three-phase power, the Pyrotec Profitherm PY 75 H is our clear recommendation. With 77 liters of firing space, a 230V Schuko connection, and a maximum temperature of 1,200 °C, it offers real firing performance – without the hassle of a CEE three-phase power connection. It belongs to Pyrotec's proven Profitherm series and thus comes with the same solid craftsmanship that distinguishes the larger models in the range: refractory brick lining, Superwool back insulation, a stainless steel casing, and a Type S thermocouple for precise temperature measurement. The Bentrup TC66 is used as the standard controller – reliable, well-documented, and easy for beginners to operate. Depending on the equipment, the cost ranges between 2,339 Euros and 2,892 Euros.
A frequently asked question is why we don't recommend the Pyrotec Studio ST 68 H here, which is similar in size and also designed for 230V. However, it costs about 700 Euros less. The answer is simple: the ST 68 H is designed for a maximum of 1,100 °C and is therefore limited to earthenware and low-firing. The PY 75 H reaches 1,200 °C – which already puts you in the realm of light stoneware. Those who think long-term and don't want to buy the next model after a year are better off with the PY 75 H.
Ideal for: Beginners and hobby potters who want to fire at home without three-phase power and don't want to compromise on quality. Those who start with earthenware but also want to try stoneware in the medium term will find the necessary leeway here at a fair entry-level price.
Place 1: Pyrotec Profitherm HS PY 138 HS
Our favorite for 2026 is the Pyrotec Profitherm HS PY 138 HS – and what makes it special is that it hardly falters in any discipline. 138 liters of firing space, 1,320 °C maximum temperature, a Type S thermocouple made of platinum-rhodium for precise and reproducible measurements. This sounds technical, but it's immediately noticeable in practice: your glazes develop exactly as you programmed them – firing after firing.
What makes the PY 138 HS special is its hinged lid with gas pressure springs. Anyone who has ever lifted a heavy kiln lid without assistance knows how pleasant this difference is – especially if you fire frequently or share the kiln with others. The safety features are exemplarily documented: forced-disconnect switch when opening the lid, a second over-temperature safety system via a separate safety contactor, and combined insulation made of lightweight firebrick and Superwool mats. Pyrotec offers a 36-month manufacturer's warranty. The price, depending on the controller and dealer, is approximately 3,754 to 4,279 Euros – a fair price-performance ratio for what this kiln offers.
Ideal for: Anyone looking for a reliable, well-equipped all-rounder – from ambitious hobby potters to small workshops. If you don't want to think too much and just want a kiln that works in almost any situation, the PY 138 HS is the right choice. A three-phase power connection is required.
Conclusion
There is no "perfect" kiln – but there is the right one for your situation. If you are just starting and working at home without three-phase power, look at smaller models up to 80 liters. If you already know that you want to work regularly with stoneware or porcelain, it is worth investing directly in a device with 1,320 °C and corresponding power reserve. And if you ever dream of reduction firings – the gas kiln awaits you.
Also, plan for delivery times: In German specialist shops, these currently range from 16 to 23 weeks depending on the manufacturer and model. If you want to fire soon, you should order soon.
P.S.: In 2026, you will receive 5% discount on all kilns in our store with the code WELCOME5. Simply enter it at checkout and the discount will be applied directly to the purchase price.
The Formwerk-Berlin Team wishes you happy firing!