Looking for the best meat thermometer? You’ve come to the right place! In this post, we’ll introduce you to the top products on the market and help you choose the one that’s right for you.
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Best Meat Thermometer
Meat thermometers are an essential tool for any cook, whether you’re a beginner or a pro, knowing the internal temperature of your meat is imperative. They allow you to cook meat to perfection, ensuring that it’s juicy and flavorful. This small but essential tool can make or break your entire meal, so it’s essential that you choose the right one for you.
With so many different models on the market, it can be tough to know which one to choose. That’s where we come in! We’ve done the research and compiled a list of the best meat thermometers available on the market.
We’ve considered features like accuracy, ease of use, and price to compile our list. Whether you’re looking for a basic model or something more advanced, we’ve got you covered. So without further ado, here are the best meat thermometers available today!
Our Picks: The Best Meat Thermometer
- Editors Pick: ThermoPro TP25 Bluetooth Meat Thermometer
- Best Overall: ThermoPro Lightning One-Second Instant Read Meat Thermometer
- Best Small Budget: ROUUO Instant Read Meat Thermometer
- Best Luxury: MEATER Plus
- Best for Beginners: Lavatools Javelin Pro Duo
Editors Pick Best Meat Thermometer
ThermoPro TP25 Bluetooth Meat Thermometer
The ThermoPro TP25 bluetooth meat thermometer is a smart bluetooth thermometer has all the flashy features of a high end thermometer at a reasonable price. With four colour coded temperature probes that connect wirelessly to your smartphone, you can follow the temperature of four different cuts of meat from up to 500 feet away. Having four separate probes also allows the grill master to easily monitor doneness for different preferences, ensuring that everyone is served their preferred style of meat.
The ThermoPro TP25 bluetooth meat thermometer connects to the ThermoPro app which gives alerts, notifications, and cook time estimations so you can cook your meat to the perfect temperature without constantly checking on it. The device itself is rechargeable with one full charge lasting around 8 months.
What we liked
- 500ft. range
- Smartphone app with alerts, notifications, and cook time estimator
- 4 colour coded probes
- Rechargable
What we didn’t like
- Poorly designed app
- 4 wires running from probe to device may be troublesome
Best Overall Meat Thermometer
ThermoPro Lightning One-Second Instant Read Meat Thermometer
The ThermoPro Lightning One-Second Instant Read Meat Thermometer is a must-have for any grill master or home cook. This digital meat thermometer has a lightning quick read time of one second or less, so you’ll always know the exact cooking temperatures for your meats. Its highly accurate reading of ± 0.5°F (± 0.3°C) takes the guesswork out of cooking and the custom calibration ensures the accuracy lasts forever.
One of the standout features of this thermometer is its thin probe tip, which allows for easy and precise insertion into any cut of meat. The large 2″ auto-rotating, ambidextrous, backlit display makes it easy to read at any angle, making it perfect for left-hand users or awkward angles. Plus, the smart sleep/wake mode means the thermometer will automatically turn on when you pick it up and turn off after 90 seconds of inactivity to save battery life.
This kitchen thermometer is also waterproof, with an IP65 rating, making it easy to clean under running water. And with its guaranteed service and exquisite packaging, it’s the perfect gift for your family, friends, or cooking professionals.
What we liked
- Fast and accurate temperature reading
- Magnetic backing
- Auto-sleep function
- Anti-slip grip
What we didn’t like
- Pricey
Best Small Budget Meat Thermometer
ROUUO Instant Read Meat Thermometer
The ROUUO Instant Read Meat Thermometer is the perfect tool for any cook or grill master. Its easy-to-use design features a bright and large LCD screen, an internal magnet, and a large hang hole that doubles as a bottle opener, making it a breeze to use in any kitchen or outdoor setting.
But the ROUUO isn’t just easy to use – it’s also fast and accurate. With the ability to take a temperature reading in just 2-3 seconds and an accuracy of +/-1 degrees, you can trust that your meat will be cooked to perfection every time. Plus, with a wide temperature range of -58℉-572℉, it can handle any type of meat you throw its way.
Not only is the ROUUO an essential tool for any home chef, but it’s also the perfect gift for the foodie in your life. It comes in an elegant box with a handy meat temperature chart and 4 velcro dots to hang on the wall for your convenience.
But the ROUUO doesn’t stop there – it’s also waterproof and durable. Its strong ABS plastic body can withstand accidental drops or other impact accidents, and it can be easily washed under running water. So whether you’re cooking a juicy steak on the grill or a delicate fish in the kitchen, the ROUUO Instant Read Meat Thermometer has you covered.
What we liked
- Easy to use
- Affordable
- Easy storage
What we didn’t like
- Bottle opener on the end might take up space in the drawer
- Slower reading than other “instant read thermometers”
Best Luxury Meat Thermomter
MEATER Plus
The MEATER Plus Meat Thermometer is one of the best wireless meat thermometers on the market, but it comes at a price! Though it is one of the more costly meat thermometers, it’s high performance features, durability, and ease-of-use are well worth the splurge.
The wireless meat probe connects to the MEATER app through bluetooth which allows you to quickly and efficiently check the temperature reading from your smartphone. The MEATER app also includes a guided cooking process for a variety of meats and an advanced estimator algorithm that estimates the remaining cook time to reach your desired temperature.
This 100% wireless, smart meat thermometer can be used with many different types of equipment like smokers, grills, ovens, and even sous vide style! With a 50 meter bluetooth range, you can free up your watch-time without worrying about overcooking.
What we liked
- 100% wireless thermometer
- Water resistant probe thermometer
- Dual sensors measure internal and ambient temperature
- Added features with smartphone app
- Durable
What we didn’t like
- Expensive
- Learning curve with app
Best Beginner Meat Thermomter
Lavatools Javelin Pro Duo
The Javelin Pro Duo is a highly accurate instrument that is easy to use and a great option for beginners. The thermocouple tip shows high accuracy for even the thinnest pieces of meat, while the entire probe is long enough for those super large cuts.
It’s anti-fog and splash resistant display is easy to read from any angle and works well whether you’re right or left handed. The magnetic casing makes storage a breeze, allowing you to stick it to a cool area of the grill or BBQ, or store on the fridge for easy access.
A unique feature on the Javelin Pro Duo is the temperature stabilization feature which emits a beeping sound when the temperature is stabilized. This allows you to get a quick reading without spending too much time watching the numbers jump around on the screen.
What we liked
- Magnetic Storage
- Easy to read display
What we didn’t like
- Not fully water resistant
Our Results for The Best Meat Thermometer
Well, there it is! Our top picks for the best meat thermometers on the market right now.
- Editors Pick: ThermoPro TP25 Bluetooth Meat Thermometer
“all the flashy features of a smart bluetooth thermometer at a reasonable price” - Best Overall: ThermoPro Lightning One-Second Instant Read Meat Thermometer
“lightning quick read time of one second or less” - Best Small Budget: ROUUO Instant Read Meat Thermometer
“strong ABS plastic body can withstand accidental drops or other impact accidents, and it can be easily washed under running water” - Best Luxury: MEATER Plus
“100% wireless meat thermometer connects to your smartphone so you can check the temperature from anywhere in the house” - Best for Beginners: Lavatools Javelin Pro Duo
a highly accurate instrument that is easy to use and a great option for beginners
Features to consider when choosing a meat thermometer
Choosing the right meat thermometer for you isn’t as hard as it may seem, though there are a few things you should keep an eye out for. Knowing the make or break features for your unique needs will ensure that you buy the right tool.
Here are a few different factors you should think about when choosing your next meat thermometer.
Meat Thermometer Type
There are two different types of meat thermometers: instant-read and probe-type thermometers. Depending on what you cook and the temperatures you use, you might need one or the other.
Instant-read meat thermometers are typically digital thermometers that inserted into the meat but only for a few seconds. Probe-type thermometers, also known as “in-oven thermometer” stay inside the meat for the duration of the cook time. With a probe-type thermometer, the grill master can see the current temperature via a display that sits outside the oven or grill or via an analog thermometers dial that stays inside the oven or grill.
Both the instant-read and probe thermometers have digital thermometer and analog thermometer versions. There are also meat thermometers that connect to your phone via smartphone app. Most digital instant read thermometers are also waterproof, which is a nice bonus.
Construction Materials
To have a long-lasting meat thermometer, you need to make sure it’s made of durable materials that can withstand the elements you’ll be cooking with. It goes without saying that stainless steel will serve you better than plastic.
Moreover, hand held instant-read thermometers should have a balanced and comfortable grip so that you can safely maneuver it while checking the temperature on a hot grill. Slippery materials might make things difficult to handle, especially if oil is involved.
Probe Length
Depending on the type of meat you’re cooking, you’ll want to consider the probe length. Longer probes are recommended for whole poultry like a Smoked Thanksgiving Turkey and large cuts of meat. The Javelin Pro Duo for example has a stainless steel probe measuring 9″ long. Shorter probes are better for smaller cuts of meat and other delicate ingredients that you don’t want to disrupt too much.
Warranty
Warranty is a nice bonus feature to keep in mind when choosing the right meat thermometer for you. Some brands will offer warranties that range from 1-3 years, while others have none at all. Usually more expensive meat thermometers will come with a warranty, while cheaper ones won’t, most likely due to less durable materials.
Additional features to consider when buying a meat thermometer
Now that we’ve covered the essential features to consider when choosing the right meat thermometer, here are a few bonus features to keep in mind when making your final decision.
Sensitivity and Response Time
Sensitivity/response time is some of the most important factors you should consider, especially for instant-read thermometers. Look for instant-read thermometers that can provide accurate readings in 3 seconds or less. The fastest digital instant read thermometer that we’ve seen is the ThermoPro Instant Read Meat Thermometer.
The faster the response time, the less time the oven or grill is open. This will ensure the least amount of heat is lost whenever you check the temperature. Sometimes, these displays are magnetic and can stick to your oven door.
Temperature Range
Sometimes different brands of meat thermometers will have different maximum temperatures they can read. If you utilize high-heat cooking methods, make sure that your meat thermometer can withstand high temperatures. This is especially important if you use a deep fryer often or are into candy making. If you’re unsure about what you might be cooking, it might be best to get a meat thermometer that can handle temps above 700F.
Water Resistance
A waterproof meat thermometer is a great option if you’re dealing with plenty of fluids during the cooking process. It can also be handy if you’re grilling outdoors, where it might rain or have pool splashes in the vicinity of your grill. Most digital meat thermometers in the market today will be splashproof but it’s best to double check whether it can be fully submerged in water or not. The MEATER Plus is a great option for a water resistant thermometer.
Alerts and Display
You should look for meat thermometers that can show you what you need to know when you need to know it. There are plenty of digital probe thermometers, like the ThermoPro TP25 bluetooth meat thermometer that can alert you when it hits a target temperature. This is a very useful feature, especially for those that tend to forget to check-in.
Smart Features
Newer models of meat thermometers have features that let you monitor them on your phone. There are also digital meat thermometers that can have multiple timers and alarm settings you can choose from. The MEATER Plus even has a smartphone app that can show you cooking guides and estimated cooking time.
Bonus features to consider when choosing a meat thermometer
There are a few features that newer (and pricier) thermometers have, that you might consider a necessity. If you’re someone who likes having all the bells and whistles, consider a meat thermometer with some of these bonus features.
- Auto Shut-off: This is a safety feature that automatically shuts down your thermometer when it is not in use. It also helps to extend the battery life!
- Preset Meat Temperatures: This feature lets you preset the desired internal meat temperature on your thermometer and then alerts you when the temperature has been reached.
- Temperature Hold: If you hate watching the numbers jump around on your instant read thermometer, consider choosing one with a temperature hold like the Javelin Pro Duo . This feature tells you what the stabilized internal temperature is without any of the guesswork.
- Smartphone Apps: Some meat thermometers like the TP25 bluetooth thermometer and the MEATER Plus Meat Thermometer come with their very own smartphone app that you can monitor the temperature on, even when you’re nowhere near the grill. This is a great feature if you host often and don’t want to spend the entire evening checking your meat.
Safety Tips for Meat Thermometers
A meat thermometer is an essential tool for any cook who wants to serve perfectly cooked meat. When used properly, meat thermometers are safe and easy to use. Here are some tips for using a meat thermometer safely.
Wear Oven Mitts or Hot Pads
Wearing oven mitts or hot pads is extremely important, especially when handling leave-in meat thermometers. The stainless steel probe will be very hot after being in the oven or grill for some time, so to avoid burns and protect your hands, wear oven mitts.
Do Not Place Plastic Parts On Hot Surfaces
Be careful not to accidentally melt and ruin your meat thermometer parts by placing them near hot elements or a hot grill lid. Even if your thermometer has a magnet, that does not mean it should be stuck to just any metal surface! Ensure the area you’re placing it will not overheat and cause damage.
Research Food Safety Internal Temperature
Different meats have different internal temperatures that are safe for consumption. Undercooked meat can carry harmful bacteria and may cause food poisoning or other food-borne illnesses.
If you aren’t sure what temperature your chosen meat is supposed to be, you can find it online at foodsafety.gov before you begin cooking.
Meat Thermometer FAQs
Why Should I Buy A Meat Thermometer?
Meat thermometers are an essential tool for any cook, whether you’re a beginner or a pro. They allow you to cook meat to perfection so that you’re not serving unsafe undercooked meat, or help so that you don’t accidentally overcook it. Plus, you’ll have perfectly cooked steaks every single time!
Can I Use A Meat Thermometer For Anything Other Than Meat?
Yes, you can use a meat thermometer to check the temperature reading of anything you’re cooking. You can check the temperature and doneness of homemade bread, hard boiled egg water, and even use when making candy. You can also use a meat thermometer to check the temperature of your fridge by placing the probe into a glass of water overnight.
Where Do I Buy A Meat Thermometer?
You can find meat thermometers at many grocery stores or home goods stores, but you’ll never find the kind of selection like you will online. By shopping online for a meat thermometer you have the opportunity to read reviews, find pro and con lists, and hear from real customers about their experiences.
Are Meat Thermometers Different Than Cooking Thermometers?
Meat thermometers and cooking thermometers are slightly different, though they provide the same information. The biggest difference is that meat thermometers generally provide accurate temperature readings a lot faster compared to cooking thermometers. This is to minimize the time you have your oven door or grill top open.
How Do I Use A Meat Thermometer?
First, read the instructions for your specific type of meat thermometer. As a rule of thumb, you should insert your thermometer in the thickest part of the meat while it’s cooking. This part shouldn’t have any fat, gristle, or bone. If you are cooking thin meats, insert your thermometer probe sideways to accurately measure the internal temperature.
How Do I Calibrate My Meat Thermometer?
Most thermometers are already calibrated, but there are always a few exceptions. To make sure it’s calibrated correctly, place the metal probe in boiling water and look for a reading of 212 degree fahrenheit or place it in ice water and look for a reading of 32 degree fahrenheit.
Are Wireless Meat Thermometers Any Good?
Wireless meat thermometers are great if you want the convenience of wireless technology and phone applications. You can leave it in the meat while you do something else and monitor the temp in a phone application.
Why Is Thermapen So Expensive?
Thermapen is very expensive because it provides one of the fastest and most accurate temp readings in the market today.
Is The MEATER Plus Worth It?
Depending on your budget, the MEATER plus may be worth it. If you’ve got the $100 to splurge on this fancy thermometer, we recommend it. The convenience it provides is rivaled by none. It is easily the best smart meat thermometer.
Can You Leave A Thermometer In The Meat While Smoking?
Smoking meat sometimes requires high temperatures. Make sure that your leave-in thermometer can withstand the high temperatures of the smoker before you leave it in.