My project budget is small, but I needed safe and effective equipment . I originally intended to get the 3-L stir plate which has a built in thermometer. However, this one does the trick! I do have a digital thermometer which attaches to easily to the support rod/stand. I especially like the separate control buttons for heat and stirring. Overall, I give it 4 stars.
My only complaint: it temporarily stopped working - the power buttons didn't light up and the stirring rod remained motionless. But the heating unit worked (again, without the red button lighting up - potentially hazardous). It is possible that the equipment got jostled. Not knowing what to do, I set it aside. It works just fine now.