I previously messed around with ph paper. Hated using them. They arnt very accurate, lots of potential for user error. This meter is great. I hang the probes into my mash tun and use a small bungee to secure it. This lets me monitor my mash ph and fine tune it with additions. I've really increased my efficency by lowering my sparge water ph. Its a well designed product. Sturdy, wipes clean. The probes are strong and they have screw in connections. If you are concerned about water chemistry, get a water test. I was suprised to find my water ph was over 8. Hard to get good efficency with that. In short, great for fine tuning mash and sparge water. Well made easy to use and sturdy. Price might seem high but wait for it to be the deal of the day, its worth it.