Laser thermometer vs probe style

[redbuddha]

What's the common wisdom on a laser thermometer vs probe for determining soil temps? I'm using an infrared laser thermometer and I'm getting 85F to 88F on my Jiffy pucks nestled in an electric throw blanket from Walgreens. I'm thinking I've hit the sweet spot.

 

[Maxsack331]

is that hitting it on the top or on the bottom of the soil/jiffy pellets? I'd say keep it as close to 85 as possible.. or a little lower.. put a thin hand towel in between