The KilnAid and KilnLink apps are free. Why do I have to pay for TAP Kiln Control Mobile?
TAP Kiln Control Mobile is free to use, with an optional upgrade to a premium plan for complete end-to-end remote control.
Actually, the Bartlett KilnAid and Skutt KilnLink apps both have paid subscription plans, they just aren’t actively advertised, and they provide a very limited feature set – neither app includes functionality for remote kiln control. Additionally, TAP Kiln Control Mobile offers a free and paid plan, with the free planproviding more features and functionality than you'd get with KilnAid or KilnLink.
For a full comparison of the apps and controller features between various kiln controller manufacturers, check out Temperature Controller Manufacturers Side-by-Side Comparison.
Also, it's important to note that all proceeds from the premium subscriptions from TAP Kiln Control Mobile are invested back into the app to support servers, storage, and developing new features and fixes.