Olympic Kilns Review: Are They Worth It? | ProKilnSupply

Olympic Kilns Review: Are They Worth It?

Olympic Kilns has been manufacturing electric kilns in Tucker, Georgia since 1955. That's over 70 years of American-made kilns. If you're researching whether an Olympic kiln is worth buying, here's our honest breakdown based on the models we carry and the feedback we get from customers.

What Makes Olympic Kilns Stand Out

Made in the USA: Olympic kilns are manufactured entirely in Tucker, Georgia. This matters for quality control, lead times on parts, and warranty support. When you need a replacement element or a new kiln sitter, it ships fast from a domestic manufacturer.

Quick ship availability: Olympic's quick-ship program is a real differentiator. Several models — including the MAS1823HE, MAS2327HE, 1214-120HE, HB89E, and CHAMP XL — ship within days rather than the weeks or months typical of made-to-order kilns. If you need a kiln now, Olympic is often the answer.

The Genesis 2.0 controller: Olympic's proprietary digital controller is intuitive, reliable, and offers both cone-fire and ramp-hold modes with multiple programmable segments. First-time kiln owners find it easy to learn; experienced potters have the control they need.

Stainless steel jacket: Olympic kilns use a stainless steel outer jacket rather than painted steel. It handles heat exposure better, looks professional, and doesn't rust or peel over time.

Olympic Kilns We Carry and Recommend

Olympic HB89E: The 120V compact test kiln. Ideal for glaze testing, jewelry, and small ceramics. Ships fast, plug-in anywhere, great entry point.

Olympic 1214-120HE: The cone 10 120V kiln. A legitimate high-fire kiln on a standard outlet — remarkable achievement in compact design.

Olympic MAS1823HE: The 18"x23" mid-size workhorse. One of the most popular home studio kilns we carry. Excellent balance of size, performance, and price.

Olympic MAS2327HE: The 23"x27" production kiln. The choice for serious studio potters, small ceramic businesses, and school programs that need real capacity.

Olympic CHAMP XL: The 120V glass kiln. Fast-ship, beginner-friendly, handles fusing and slumping beautifully.

Who Are Olympic Kilns Best For?

Olympic kilns are an excellent choice for home studio potters who want a domestic-made kiln with strong manufacturer support, schools and programs that need reliable, easy-to-operate equipment, and potters who need a kiln fast and can't wait on a long production lead time.

If you're price-sensitive and shopping the absolute lowest price, you may find slightly cheaper options from overseas manufacturers — but Olympic's build quality, warranty support, and U.S. manufacturing are worth the modest price premium for most buyers.

Our Bottom Line

Olympic kilns earn their reputation. They're well-built, backed by a genuine manufacturer warranty, and supported by a team that's been doing this since 1955. If you're considering an Olympic, you're in good hands.