I have used both with success. I used the same dried beans for years before I treated myself to ceramic weights earlier this year - both worked fine in my kitchen.

Save your money and use pennies instead. They conduct heat beautifully and are inexpensive.

I would use ceramic weights. But AJ, I already know that you are a way better baker than me so you should be answering this question rather than asking it.

A great tip I learned from my baking instructor was to put another pie pan in the shell that you're blind baking, turn them upside down and bake it that way. Works great, and you don't have to bother with beans or beads.

I've always used pennies which work fine. You can also use galvanized washers from the hardware store (if you have a place that sells in bulk).

I also always use pennies. Everyone has a jar of them ...just wash in hot soapy water and dry before using. They are much cheaper than pie weights...also, there are never enough pie weights in the package to do the job well.

This thread made me laugh. You know you've come to a strange pass when it's cheaper to use money than pieces of cooked clay or beans as pie weights.

Another reason (besides the fact that it costs about 2 cents to make each one) to retire the penny for good.