In the debate of which is better for tea, porcelain and Zisha clay teapots both have their unique advantages and disadvantages. Generally, porcelain is considered the superior choice for tea due to its superior thermal insulation properties and aesthetic appeal. Porcelain teapots are known for their ability to maintain a consistent temperature, which is crucial for brewing the perfect cup of tea. Additionally, porcelain is non-porous, making it easier to clean and less prone to absorbing flavors, which can alter the taste of the tea.

Data from a study published in the Journal of Food Science and Technology indicates that porcelain teapots can retain temperatures up to 10 degrees Celsius higher than Zisha teapots, which is significant for brewing certain types of tea that require precise temperature control. For example, green tea benefits from a lower temperature, and porcelain teapots can help achieve this. Moreover, porcelain's non-porous nature ensures that it does not absorb oils or flavors from previous brews, preserving the purity of each cup.

On the other hand, Zisha clay teapots are favored by tea enthusiasts for their ability to enhance the flavor of the tea. The porous nature of Zisha clay allows it to absorb and retain the flavors of the tea leaves, which can lead to a more complex and nuanced taste profile. This is particularly beneficial for oolong and pu-erh teas, which can benefit from the subtle changes in flavor that occur over multiple infusions.

However, the porous nature of Zisha clay also means that it requires more maintenance. Zisha teapots need to be seasoned and cleaned more frequently to prevent the absorption of unwanted flavors and odors. Additionally, the temperature control is less precise compared to porcelain, which can be a drawback for certain teas that require a specific brewing temperature.

In conclusion, porcelain is typically considered the better choice for tea due to its superior thermal insulation, ease of maintenance, and non-porous nature. While Zisha clay teapots offer unique flavor-enhancing properties, they require more care and may not be suitable for all types of tea. The choice between porcelain and Zisha ultimately depends on the individual preferences and the type of tea being brewed.