Sign me up for an 888D.

Just in case everyone doesn't know, the 888D has a digital temp readout, preset temps and digital calibration. Definitely worth it for a few dollars more.

Just got the 888D and struggled with presets so hopefully this will help someone.

By default the presets are turned off. You can have either presets or "dial in your temperature," but not both at the same time.

You have to go into the settings to enable presets. While the manual alludes to the settings it does not explain them. Go to https://doc.hakko.com (you do not have to create an account), pick owners manuals and then 888D.

This will look like the same operators manual, but it includes the section on changing the settings. Read all the way to the end of the section (which I didn't and wasted more time dicking around) to see how to save the changes you've made.

Go back into regular mode and you can change the preset values.

Thanks Blackjacker I corrected my post.