We've owned several pizza stones over the years, most of them were the most expensive ones (splurges made when we were in towns with great gourmet stores). Owned several because we've moved a lot and sometimes the pizza stone had to go because of weight. At any rate, when we moved here 3 years ago we bought a fairly expensive one. I was shocked when it warped after a few uses, then broke in half. We just did without for awhile, then I saw a cheap one (I think the brand was Cook's Choice, at the grocery store, for $12, including a rack to put it on the table if you so chose). Had it for a couple of months now, and can't say that it is inferior or superior to the $30 versions we've owned. It does take less time to heat up, and is easier on the back when you need to remove it from the oven. I have no pretensions of being a real baker, but so far it seems OK to me.