We're currently testing new instant-read thermometers. Stay tuned for the results! In the meantime, our longtime winner remains the ThermoWorks Thermapen ONE.
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What You Need to Know
The ThermoWorks Thermapen ONE is our favorite instant-read thermometer and has been for years. It’s fast, accurate, and easy to use. It has all the handy extra features we like (a long folding probe, a simple backlit display that rotates depending on your orientation, and an automatic sleep mode) and none that we don’t. It’s expensive, but it’s incredibly durable and should last a long time. Our favorite midprice option is the Lavatools Javelin PRO Duo. It’s a tad slower and a tiny bit less accurate than our top choice, but it still has many of the features we like in a thermometer. Finally, the best inexpensive option is the ThermoWorks ThermoPop 2. This no-frills model is quick, accurate, and dead simple to use—a bargain for the price.
Prone to dropping your Thermapen? You might benefit from an extra layer of protection from the Thermapen ONE Silicone Boot, a special cover for it. Check out our full review here.
Every cook should have an instant-read thermometer. A good thermometer is a kitchen essential that takes the guesswork out of cooking and baking. It reads the internal temperature of your food quickly, letting you know exactly what’s going on in your food as it heats up and making it less likely that it’ll over- or undercook. Many of us put out our thermometers to work on a daily basis, using them to take the temperature of everything from expensive prime rib roast to simple caramel sauce.
There are different types of instant-read thermometers, but we stopped evaluating old-school dial thermometers long ago—they’re slow, imprecise, and often hard to read. For quick, accurate measurements, digital models are the only way to go.
We’ve tested dozens of digital instant-read thermometers over the years. All the models we tested have two basic parts: a metal probe that sticks into the food and a handle that houses any controls. And there can be a big difference between the best models and the worst. Here’s what we’ve learned.
We tested each thermometer for accuracy by repeatedly taking the temperature of an ice bath, a sous vide water bath set to 125 degrees, and boiling water with each thermometer.
What to Look For
Accuracy: If your thermometer is inaccurate, what's the point? We prefer models that are accurate within 1 degree of the correct temperature, no matter whether we’re temping a custard, frying oil, or a steak.
If a thermometer's inaccurate, what's the point?
Speed: The best instant-read thermometers read in just 1 to 3 seconds, allowing us to get in and check the temperature quickly, so our hands didn’t have to hover too long over a hot roast or pot of bubbling sauce or oil.
Large, Simple, Rotating Displays: We like thermometers with large, easy-to-read displays that show the temperature alone in large numerals, with no unnecessary additional buttons or data to clutter the interface. We also preferred those that displayed the temperature in whole numbers rather than decimal points, which we found distracting; after all, it doesn't matter if your steak is cooked to 125 or 125.2 degrees. And we liked displays that were positioned toward the probe side of the handle, since we didn’t need to adjust our grip in order to read them, as we did with displays toward the back of the handle. Finally, we appreciated displays with digits that rotate as you move the thermometer; these are great for lefties and anyone who needs to adjust their grip during use so that they don't have to read the temperature backward or upside down. Some models rotated the digits two ways, flipping them 180 degrees; others rotated four ways, so the digits could face all sides of the screen. But our favorite model went a step further: You can actually choose whether the display rotates two or four ways or opt to lock it in a single direction.
We like thermometers with large, clear displays that made it easy for us to read the temperature.
Large, Grippy Handles: The best models had long, broad handles that were easy for hands of all sizes to hold and could be held in different ways. We also liked models that had handles with rubbery features, as these were slightly less slippery to hold, especially when our hands were wet.
Moderately Long, Narrow Probes: We preferred probes that were at least 4 inches long; they could reach into the center of a roast or a large pot of sauce or oil while keeping our hands farther away from the heat. Narrow probes put smaller holes in food, so less juice leaked out of roasts and everything we temped looked more presentation-worthy than foods we’d poked with thicker probes.
Simple Folding Probes with Moderate Tension: We had a slight preference for thermometers with probes that unfolded like a switchblade. For one thing, folding probes were more compact and easy to store than models with straight, fixed probes, which were often a bit more ungainly and had separate probe sheaths to keep track of. Among folding thermometers, we preferred those that used a single step for powering on: Simply swing open the probe and go. The other thermometers all required two or three steps to turn them on: Open the probe and press the power button or, in the worst case, press a button to release the probe, open the probe, and then press the power button. Tension also mattered: We preferred models that were stiff enough for us to securely set them at offset angles but not so stiff that they were a bear to open and close. And while most of these switchblade-style probes opened to 180 degrees, some went further, to 225 degrees, meaning that we could use it at an offset angle in both our right and left hands—a nice perk that kept our hands out of the pot and even farther away from the heat.
We like thermometers with probes that can be positioned at different angles, allowing us to more easily take temperatures in harder-to-reach areas.
A Backlight: We liked models that had displays with a backlight; we found these useful for grilling at night or seeing temperature as we reached into dark ovens. Several models had backlights, but not all of them turned on automatically in low-light conditions. Another model, from OXO, didn't have a backlight but instead had a black screen with white digits, making it easy to read even in low light.
Sleep Mode: This feature allows thermometers to turn off when not in use, prolonging battery life. While several models we tested have this ability, only a few had both sleep mode and an auto wake-up feature so that they turn on again as soon as they're moved (if the probe remains open). This prevents you from having to stop what you're doing, close the probe, and open it back up to power on the thermometer.
We noted design differences that affected how securely we could hold a thermometer while still being able to read the display. Some models have screens or buttons that limit the amount of space to grip.
What to Avoid
Inaccuracy: The most imprecise models were off by about 2 degrees—not enough to ruin a dish but not exactly confidence-inspiring.
Slow Readouts: Our least favorite thermometers took from 4 seconds to more than 20 seconds to provide a temperature reading. Even 8 seconds may not seem like much, but when our hands were hovering over a steaming pot of boiling water or bubbling caramel sauce, it felt like an eternity.
Tiny, Slippery, or Sloped Handles: These were hard to grip comfortably, giving us nowhere to rest our fingers; we could only pinch-grip them with our thumb and pointer finger, which felt a bit dainty.
Short Probes: Thermometers with probes measuring 3 inches or less weren’t able to reach into the center of a large roast or a broad steak. They also put our hands closer to uncomfortably hot food.
Type of Temperature Sensor: Digital thermometers for home cooks generally use one of two types of sensors to measure temperatures: a thermocouple or a thermistor. A thermocouple is essentially two wires from different metal alloys that are welded together (“coupled”). The wires produce a voltage that changes in response to temperature; the thermometer takes that information and converts it into the temperature you see on the display. A thermistor is a metal oxide semiconductor embedded in a small metal chip or disk; it registers changes in resistance (opposition to the flow of current through it) as the temperature changes and converts that data into the temperature you see on the display. In general, thermocouples are capable of registering a larger range of temperatures (up to 1000 degrees F) and are usually faster than thermistors, though they’re not quite as accurate. Thermistors are typically more accurate, but over a smaller range of temperatures (most can only handle those between 392 and 572 degrees F), and can be slower, in part because the sensor itself is stuck inside that thicker housing; it takes a bit more time for temperature changes to be conducted all the way to the sensor. In practice, however, we’ve found that these differences with the type of sensor don’t matter too much for home cooks. Thermometers made with both types can be fast and accurate enough for use in the kitchen.
Accuracy: We evaluated the accuracy of each thermometer in an ice bath at 32 degrees, in a sous vide water bath set to 125 degrees (the temperature of a medium-rare steak), and in boiling water at 212 degrees; models that were within 1 degree of accuracy at each temperature rated highest; any thermometer within 2 degrees received a fair rating, and those that were more than 2 degrees off the target temperature received a poor rating.
Speed: We timed how long it took for each thermometer to read the temperature in ice water, boiling water, and a sous vide water bath at 125 degrees (medium-rare for a steak); those that read in 6 seconds or less rated highest.
Ease of Use: We rated how easy and comfortable each model was to use. We preferred those with spacious, grippy handles; long probes; and minimal buttons. Models with automatic wake-up, easy-to-read displays, and a single step for turning on and off also rated highest.
Durability: We monitored the thermometers throughout testing for both functional and cosmetic damage; those that emerged looking and operating like new rated highest.
FAQs
Our favorite instant-read thermometer couldn’t be simpler to use. Once you’ve inserted the battery, the thermometer wakes up the minute you grab it. Extend the probe and insert it into the center of your food (or the thickest part, if you’re cooking a piece of meat) and then wait a second for the temperature to register. You may want to take temperatures in several locations, especially with meat. If you’re taking the temperature of fry oil, stir the probe around the pot in order to ensure that you’re getting the temperature around different locations. For sauces, swirl the liquid itself gently so that the heat equalizes before you take its temperature. You might also want to tilt the pan or pot slightly so that enough liquid accumulates for you to stick the thermometer probe into it.
Gently clean the probe with hot water and soap between each use, wiping it clean with a sponge. (Yes, if you temp some meat or chicken and it’s not done yet, you still need to clean it before using it to temp the same meat or chicken.) Do not submerge the entire thermometer in water; while some, including our winner, are waterproof up to a certain point, all will be damaged if left in the water for long periods. (If you do drop our favorite into the water, it should be OK for about 30 minutes as long as the water isn’t deeper than 30 inches. Don’t open the probe until the unit has completely dried off, though, as water can get inside and damage the electronics.) Similarly, don’t put your thermometer in the dishwasher—the thermometer has not yet been invented that can survive that much water and heat.
The newest instant-read thermometer by ThermoWorks is the best we’ve tested yet. It has all the features we loved in our previous favorite: a large, grippy handle; a rotating screen with large, highly legible numbers; and a backlight that goes on when viewing conditions are dim. It’s waterproof to a water depth of 39 inches for 30 minutes, it goes to sleep when not in use, and the display wakes up automatically when you pick up the entire unit. The ONE improves on its predecessor, though: As its name indicates, it takes just 1 second to measure a temperature. The backlight is brighter, and you can now use the thermometer when cooking on induction burners—the engineers at ThermoWorks have taken measures to eliminate the electromagnetic interference that sometimes occurs when you use digital thermometers with induction cooktops.
Model Number: THS-235-447 (red)Range: -58°F to 572°FFeatures: Adjustable automatic rotating screen (1, 2, or 4 ways), automatic backlight, sleep mode, auto wake-up, calibration, waterproof (39 in for 30 min)Probe length: 4.3 inAverage read time: 1.1 secAverage margin of error in testing: 0.0° at 32°F, 0.07° at 125°FPrice at Time of Testing: $109
The newest instant-read thermometer by ThermoWorks is the best we’ve tested yet. It has all the features we loved in our previous favorite: a large, grippy handle; a rotating screen with large, highly legible numbers; and a backlight that goes on when viewing conditions are dim. It’s waterproof to a water depth of 39 inches for 30 minutes, it goes to sleep when not in use, and the display wakes up automatically when you pick up the entire unit. The ONE improves on its predecessor, though: As its name indicates, it takes just 1 second to measure a temperature. The backlight is brighter, and you can now use the thermometer when cooking on induction burners—the engineers at ThermoWorks have taken measures to eliminate the electromagnetic interference that sometimes occurs when you use digital thermometers with induction cooktops.
Model Number: THS-235-447 (red)Range: -58°F to 572°FFeatures: Adjustable automatic rotating screen (1, 2, or 4 ways), automatic backlight, sleep mode, auto wake-up, calibration, waterproof (39 in for 30 min)Probe length: 4.3 inAverage read time: 1.1 secAverage margin of error in testing: 0.0° at 32°F, 0.07° at 125°FPrice at Time of Testing: $109
This midpriced thermometer wasn’t quite as lightning fast as our favorite, but it was still pretty darn quick—and accurate too. We liked the grippy rubber around its large handle, which made it easy to hold, and the bright illuminated digits on its rotating screen were particularly easy to read, even in the dark. And it had many of the extra features we appreciate, including a sleep mode that engaged after 90 seconds of inactivity; it also turned on automatically when we pulled out the thermometer’s folding probe. Our one quibble? It’s sometimes tricky to grab the probe itself when it’s folded in, as it nestles into the handle a little closely.
Model Number: TP622Range: -58 to 572°FFeatures: Automatic screen rotation, illuminated digits for visibility, sleep mode, automatic wake-up, calibrationProbe length: 4.1 inAverage read time: 2.1 secondsAverage margin of error in testing: 0.1°F at 32°F, 0.3°F at 125°FPrice at Time of Testing: $69.99
This midpriced thermometer wasn’t quite as lightning fast as our favorite, but it was still pretty darn quick—and accurate too. We liked the grippy rubber around its large handle, which made it easy to hold, and the bright illuminated digits on its rotating screen were particularly easy to read, even in the dark. And it had many of the extra features we appreciate, including a sleep mode that engaged after 90 seconds of inactivity; it also turned on automatically when we pulled out the thermometer’s folding probe. Our one quibble? It’s sometimes tricky to grab the probe itself when it’s folded in, as it nestles into the handle a little closely.
Model Number: TP622Range: -58 to 572°FFeatures: Automatic screen rotation, illuminated digits for visibility, sleep mode, automatic wake-up, calibrationProbe length: 4.1 inAverage read time: 2.1 secondsAverage margin of error in testing: 0.1°F at 32°F, 0.3°F at 125°FPrice at Time of Testing: $69.99
This thermometer was accurate and relatively fast. It had two unique features that we really liked. First, in addition to having a rotating display like other models, it has a probe that opens 225 degrees instead of the typical 180 degrees. This meant we could hold it at an offset angle in both our right and left hands, keeping us even farther away from the heat. It was also the only model with a display that featured white digits on a black screen, negating the need for a backlight; we could see this thermometer's readout in any lighting. There were a few downsides, though. The probe is a bit stiff, so it took more effort to open and close. It also comes with a dial that's meant as a hands-free way to access the probe, but it was slippery and too stiff to be convenient. Lastly, while it had a large, comfortable handle, it was a bit too slick, especially when we were frying greasy steaks.
Model Number: 11204300Range: −58°F to 572°FFeatures: Automatic 2-way rotating screen, 225-degree probe rotation, illuminated digits for visibilityProbe length: 4.25 inAverage read time: 3.85 secAverage margin of error in testing: 0.0° at 32°F, 0.3° at 125°FPrice at Time of Testing: $99.95
This thermometer was accurate and relatively fast. It had two unique features that we really liked. First, in addition to having a rotating display like other models, it has a probe that opens 225 degrees instead of the typical 180 degrees. This meant we could hold it at an offset angle in both our right and left hands, keeping us even farther away from the heat. It was also the only model with a display that featured white digits on a black screen, negating the need for a backlight; we could see this thermometer's readout in any lighting. There were a few downsides, though. The probe is a bit stiff, so it took more effort to open and close. It also comes with a dial that's meant as a hands-free way to access the probe, but it was slippery and too stiff to be convenient. Lastly, while it had a large, comfortable handle, it was a bit too slick, especially when we were frying greasy steaks.
Model Number: 11204300Range: −58°F to 572°FFeatures: Automatic 2-way rotating screen, 225-degree probe rotation, illuminated digits for visibilityProbe length: 4.25 inAverage read time: 3.85 secAverage margin of error in testing: 0.0° at 32°F, 0.3° at 125°FPrice at Time of Testing: $99.95
This thermometer wasn't quite as good as the Mk4 or the OXO model, but it gave them a real run for their money. It was fast and accurate and had a large handle that kept us safely away from the heat; the handle was slightly slicker and less roomy than we'd like but better than those of most models we tested. The big, clear display rotates two ways, and the long probe worked great at various angles. It turned on automatically when we opened the probe and turned off when we closed it. It also automatically wakes up with a touch if you leave the probe open. Its backlight turns on with a vigorous shake. Its one button operates a hold feature and min/max functions; we found the latter unnecessary, but the former is quite useful. The button wasn't perfectly responsive, and loading three functions on one button was a bit confusing, but overall the design was pleasantly minimalist, and you can ignore the functions you don't need.
Model Number: PX1DRange: −40°F to 482°FFeatures: Automatic 2-way rotating screen, manual backlight, sleep mode, auto wake-up, hold, max, min, magnet for storageProbe length: 4.35 inAverage read time: 3 secAverage margin of error in testing: 0.13° at 32°F, 0.52° at 125°FPrice at Time of Testing: $49.99
This thermometer wasn't quite as good as the Mk4 or the OXO model, but it gave them a real run for their money. It was fast and accurate and had a large handle that kept us safely away from the heat; the handle was slightly slicker and less roomy than we'd like but better than those of most models we tested. The big, clear display rotates two ways, and the long probe worked great at various angles. It turned on automatically when we opened the probe and turned off when we closed it. It also automatically wakes up with a touch if you leave the probe open. Its backlight turns on with a vigorous shake. Its one button operates a hold feature and min/max functions; we found the latter unnecessary, but the former is quite useful. The button wasn't perfectly responsive, and loading three functions on one button was a bit confusing, but overall the design was pleasantly minimalist, and you can ignore the functions you don't need.
Model Number: PX1DRange: −40°F to 482°FFeatures: Automatic 2-way rotating screen, manual backlight, sleep mode, auto wake-up, hold, max, min, magnet for storageProbe length: 4.35 inAverage read time: 3 secAverage margin of error in testing: 0.13° at 32°F, 0.52° at 125°FPrice at Time of Testing: $49.99
This thermometer is relatively fast and accurate. Though it weighs a bit more than most thermometers we’ve tested, we didn’t mind its heft since we didn’t have to hold it for long, thanks to its speediness. We liked its large backlit display screen, which rotated as we moved; it allowed us to see the readings in an easy and comfortable manner. Besides the thermometer’s weight, the only quibble we had was with its handle, which felt a bit bulkier than the broad and flat style we’d liked in other models. This thermometer also come with a port for a leave-in probe thermometer, which can be purchased separately, and can transmit temperature data to your phone via an app. These extra features are handy if you're thinking about buying both an instant-read and a clip-on probe thermometer and would like a single cost-effective unit that performs both functions.
Model Number: FBXIRRange: -58°F to 572°FFeatures: Automatic backlight, automatic screen rotation, built-in magnets, Wi-Fi and bluetooth enabled, leave-in probe port for long-term temperature trackingProbe length: 4 inAverage read time: 3.2 secAverage margin of error in testing: 0° at 32°F, 0.33° at 125°FPrice at Time of Testing: $149.00
This thermometer is relatively fast and accurate. Though it weighs a bit more than most thermometers we’ve tested, we didn’t mind its heft since we didn’t have to hold it for long, thanks to its speediness. We liked its large backlit display screen, which rotated as we moved; it allowed us to see the readings in an easy and comfortable manner. Besides the thermometer’s weight, the only quibble we had was with its handle, which felt a bit bulkier than the broad and flat style we’d liked in other models. This thermometer also come with a port for a leave-in probe thermometer, which can be purchased separately, and can transmit temperature data to your phone via an app. These extra features are handy if you're thinking about buying both an instant-read and a clip-on probe thermometer and would like a single cost-effective unit that performs both functions.
Model Number: FBXIRRange: -58°F to 572°FFeatures: Automatic backlight, automatic screen rotation, built-in magnets, Wi-Fi and bluetooth enabled, leave-in probe port for long-term temperature trackingProbe length: 4 inAverage read time: 3.2 secAverage margin of error in testing: 0° at 32°F, 0.33° at 125°FPrice at Time of Testing: $149.00
This thermometer is reasonably fast, accurate, and a breeze to use. Its broad handle was comfortable to hold and easy to maneuver. The display automatically turns on when the probe is unfolded and shuts off when it’s folded. It was easy to read and rotated two ways, a great feature that let us temp from different angles. The only issue we had was the lack of backlight, which made it harder to see the temperature in dark conditions.
Model Number: THS-231-227 (yellow)Range: -58°F to 572°FFeatures: Auto wake-up and shutoff, automatic screen rotation Probe length: 4.3 inAverage read time: 2.8 secAverage margin of error in testing: 0° at 32°F, 0.54° at 125°F Price at Time of Testing: $83.00
This thermometer is reasonably fast, accurate, and a breeze to use. Its broad handle was comfortable to hold and easy to maneuver. The display automatically turns on when the probe is unfolded and shuts off when it’s folded. It was easy to read and rotated two ways, a great feature that let us temp from different angles. The only issue we had was the lack of backlight, which made it harder to see the temperature in dark conditions.
Model Number: THS-231-227 (yellow)Range: -58°F to 572°FFeatures: Auto wake-up and shutoff, automatic screen rotation Probe length: 4.3 inAverage read time: 2.8 secAverage margin of error in testing: 0° at 32°F, 0.54° at 125°F Price at Time of Testing: $83.00
The ThermoPop 2 is just as accurate and a hair faster than its predecessor, the ThermoPop. And it improves on the previous ThermoPop with a larger, clearer, auto-rotating display and greater waterpoofing. (A backlight can be turned on manually.) We wish its handle was just a tad larger and that its long probe folded out, but this is still a great bargain option for folks who don’t want to sink too much money into an instant-read thermometer.
Model Number: TX-3120-RD (red)Range: -58 to 572°FFeatures: Automatic rotating display, manual backlight, waterproof (39 in for 30 min)Probe length: 4.5 inAverage read time: 2.6 secondsAverage margin of error in testing: 0.2°F at 32°F, 0.3°F at 125°FPrice at Time of Testing: $35.00
The ThermoPop 2 is just as accurate and a hair faster than its predecessor, the ThermoPop. And it improves on the previous ThermoPop with a larger, clearer, auto-rotating display and greater waterpoofing. (A backlight can be turned on manually.) We wish its handle was just a tad larger and that its long probe folded out, but this is still a great bargain option for folks who don’t want to sink too much money into an instant-read thermometer.
Model Number: TX-3120-RD (red)Range: -58 to 572°FFeatures: Automatic rotating display, manual backlight, waterproof (39 in for 30 min)Probe length: 4.5 inAverage read time: 2.6 secondsAverage margin of error in testing: 0.2°F at 32°F, 0.3°F at 125°FPrice at Time of Testing: $35.00
Our former inexpensive winner had another strong showing. It was dead accurate and extremely fast. Compared with fancier models, this model felt like driving a standard car. The display does rotate and has a backlight, but you have to stop and press a button for both functions. You have to be more careful when holding its small lollipop-shaped head, but it makes the best of its size with a grippy, ergonomic design that's reasonably secure and easy to push and pull out of dense foods. Because the head is so small, this model did put our hands a little closer to the heat.
Model Number: TX-3100-PKRange: −58°F to 572°FFeatures: Manually operated screen rotation, manual backlightProbe length: 4.5 inAverage read time: 3 secAverage margin of error in testing: 0.07° at 32°F, 0.29° at 125°FPrice at Time of Testing: $29.00
Our former inexpensive winner had another strong showing. It was dead accurate and extremely fast. Compared with fancier models, this model felt like driving a standard car. The display does rotate and has a backlight, but you have to stop and press a button for both functions. You have to be more careful when holding its small lollipop-shaped head, but it makes the best of its size with a grippy, ergonomic design that's reasonably secure and easy to push and pull out of dense foods. Because the head is so small, this model did put our hands a little closer to the heat.
Model Number: TX-3100-PKRange: −58°F to 572°FFeatures: Manually operated screen rotation, manual backlightProbe length: 4.5 inAverage read time: 3 secAverage margin of error in testing: 0.07° at 32°F, 0.29° at 125°FPrice at Time of Testing: $29.00
This thermometer is accurate and has some useful features that we liked, including an automatic rotating screen and a backlight. These features made it easy to read results. The display also turns on and off automatically as you unfold and refold the probe. But its probe fell short of the 4-inch length that we prefer, making it hard to get to the center of large pieces of food, and it was a bit slower to read. The handle was on the narrow side, so it was a little harder to grip.
Model Number: Finaltouch X10Range: -22°F to 572°FFeatures: Adjustable automatic rotating screen, automatic backlight, sleep mode, motion-activated wake-up, calibration, waterproof (39 in for 30 min)Probe length: 3.9 inAverage read time: 8.7 secAverage margin of error in testing: 0° at 32°F, 0.42° at 125°FPrice at Time of Testing: $69.99
This thermometer is accurate and has some useful features that we liked, including an automatic rotating screen and a backlight. These features made it easy to read results. The display also turns on and off automatically as you unfold and refold the probe. But its probe fell short of the 4-inch length that we prefer, making it hard to get to the center of large pieces of food, and it was a bit slower to read. The handle was on the narrow side, so it was a little harder to grip.
Model Number: Finaltouch X10Range: -22°F to 572°FFeatures: Adjustable automatic rotating screen, automatic backlight, sleep mode, motion-activated wake-up, calibration, waterproof (39 in for 30 min)Probe length: 3.9 inAverage read time: 8.7 secAverage margin of error in testing: 0° at 32°F, 0.42° at 125°FPrice at Time of Testing: $69.99
This little thermometer has a lot going for it. It was intuitive—simply swing open the probe and go. It was also fast, accurate, and easy to read. The bad news: Its 2.8-inch probe was so short that it couldn't reach the center of the thickest part of a large roast—a severe limitation. It also lacked features we preferred, such as a backlight and a rotating screen. Its handle was small, too; if we gripped it securely, our palms covered its screen. The combination of a short probe and a small handle put our hands dangerously close to the heat; we had to tilt our entire pot of caramel to the side to check the temperature without burning ourselves.
Model Number: PT12Range: −40°F to 482°FFeatures: Sleep mode, magnet for storageProbe length: 2.8 inAverage read time: 3.9 secAverage margin of error in testing: 0.63° at 32°F, 0.6° at 125°FPrice at Time of Testing: $24.99
This little thermometer has a lot going for it. It was intuitive—simply swing open the probe and go. It was also fast, accurate, and easy to read. The bad news: Its 2.8-inch probe was so short that it couldn't reach the center of the thickest part of a large roast—a severe limitation. It also lacked features we preferred, such as a backlight and a rotating screen. Its handle was small, too; if we gripped it securely, our palms covered its screen. The combination of a short probe and a small handle put our hands dangerously close to the heat; we had to tilt our entire pot of caramel to the side to check the temperature without burning ourselves.
Model Number: PT12Range: −40°F to 482°FFeatures: Sleep mode, magnet for storageProbe length: 2.8 inAverage read time: 3.9 secAverage margin of error in testing: 0.63° at 32°F, 0.6° at 125°FPrice at Time of Testing: $24.99
Speed
Accuracy
Durability
Ease of Use
ThermoWorks Executive Series EXEC Needle Thermometer
This thermometer was quick and fairly accurate. Its screen rotates automatically, so we didn’t have to crane our necks to get readings. The manual backlight provided sufficient light in darker conditions. But the thermometer wasn’t easy to use. The handle was so tiny that we had to grab it by our thumbs and pointer fingers, which felt finicky. The screen was too small to let us see the readings easily, and readouts had decimal points, which we found unnecessary. The thermometer has a short 3-inch probe that made temping large cuts, such as a pot roast, more difficult.
Model Number: TX-3200Range: -40°F to 572°FFeatures: Automatic screen rotation, manual backlight Probe length: 3 inAverage read time: 3.3 secAverage margin of error in testing: 0° at 32°F, 0.74° at 125°FPrice at Time of Testing: $39.00
This thermometer was quick and fairly accurate. Its screen rotates automatically, so we didn’t have to crane our necks to get readings. The manual backlight provided sufficient light in darker conditions. But the thermometer wasn’t easy to use. The handle was so tiny that we had to grab it by our thumbs and pointer fingers, which felt finicky. The screen was too small to let us see the readings easily, and readouts had decimal points, which we found unnecessary. The thermometer has a short 3-inch probe that made temping large cuts, such as a pot roast, more difficult.
Model Number: TX-3200Range: -40°F to 572°FFeatures: Automatic screen rotation, manual backlight Probe length: 3 inAverage read time: 3.3 secAverage margin of error in testing: 0° at 32°F, 0.74° at 125°FPrice at Time of Testing: $39.00
Not Recommended
Speed
Accuracy
Durability
Ease of Use
Polder Stable-Read Instant Read Digital Thermometer
With just one button, this thermometer was intuitive and reasonably accurate, but it took a long time to read. Its handle was smaller and thus slightly less secure to grip. Testers found the hold feature, which beeped when it settled on a temperature, “reassuring”; however, you do have to hit the power button to release the hold to take a new measurement (making it both a pro and a con). It shut down during the caramel test because it overheated, and although it did recover and function normally afterward, this made us question its long-term durability. It doesn't have a backlight or a rotating screen, which testers really missed.
Model Number: THM-389-90Range: −49°F to 392°FFeatures: HoldProbe length: 4.2 inAverage read time: 8.7 secAverage margin of error in testing: 1.63° at 32°F, 0.96° at 125°FPrice at Time of Testing: $15.99
Speed
Accuracy
Durability
Ease of Use
With just one button, this thermometer was intuitive and reasonably accurate, but it took a long time to read. Its handle was smaller and thus slightly less secure to grip. Testers found the hold feature, which beeped when it settled on a temperature, “reassuring”; however, you do have to hit the power button to release the hold to take a new measurement (making it both a pro and a con). It shut down during the caramel test because it overheated, and although it did recover and function normally afterward, this made us question its long-term durability. It doesn't have a backlight or a rotating screen, which testers really missed.
Model Number: THM-389-90Range: −49°F to 392°FFeatures: HoldProbe length: 4.2 inAverage read time: 8.7 secAverage margin of error in testing: 1.63° at 32°F, 0.96° at 125°FPrice at Time of Testing: $15.99
Speed
Accuracy
Durability
Ease of Use
Taylor Rotating Display Thermometer
This thermometer was mostly accurate, but it had a very small head with sloped sides that were nearly impossible to get a secure grip on; testers called it “precarious.” At just over 7 inches long overall, it put our hands too close to the heat, especially since it took a while to read the temperature. It requires two steps to turn on (remove case, press power button), and while it has just one button, said button has three tasks: power, backlight, and switching between Fahrenheit and Celsius, so we often engaged the wrong function. It also has spindly, hard-to-read digits.
Model Number: 9834Range: −40°F to 482°FFeatures: 4-way automatic rotating display, manual backlightProbe length: 5.6 inAverage read time: 7.2 secAverage margin of error in testing: 1.35° at 32°F, 0.26° at 125°FPrice at Time of Testing: $17.99
Speed
Accuracy
Durability
Ease of Use
This thermometer was mostly accurate, but it had a very small head with sloped sides that were nearly impossible to get a secure grip on; testers called it “precarious.” At just over 7 inches long overall, it put our hands too close to the heat, especially since it took a while to read the temperature. It requires two steps to turn on (remove case, press power button), and while it has just one button, said button has three tasks: power, backlight, and switching between Fahrenheit and Celsius, so we often engaged the wrong function. It also has spindly, hard-to-read digits.
Model Number: 9834Range: −40°F to 482°FFeatures: 4-way automatic rotating display, manual backlightProbe length: 5.6 inAverage read time: 7.2 secAverage margin of error in testing: 1.35° at 32°F, 0.26° at 125°FPrice at Time of Testing: $17.99
Speed
Accuracy
Durability
Ease of Use
Maverick Rain Drop Waterproof Digital Thermometer
This thermometer was fast but suffered from both accuracy and design problems. It was almost 2 degrees off during our sous vide test. It had an excessive number of buttons labeled with cryptic symbols and a two-step on and off process that testers found frustrating (especially when it often took up to three tries to engage the power button). The handle was bigger, which was nice, but it was awkward to hold, and to grasp it comfortably you have to put your hand right over the screen. It also fluctuated a lot and scrolled through a lot of numbers to reach its target, which testers found confusing. The plastic cover on its control panel started to peel back during testing; it still functioned but made us worry about long-term durability.
Model Number: PT-55Range: 4°F to 572°FFeatures: Manual backlight, calibration, waterproof (3 ft for 30 min)Probe length: 3.9 inAverage read time: 4.8 secAverage margin of error in testing: 0.24° at 32°F, 1.7° at 125°FPrice at Time of Testing: $39.99
Speed
Accuracy
Durability
Ease of Use
This thermometer was fast but suffered from both accuracy and design problems. It was almost 2 degrees off during our sous vide test. It had an excessive number of buttons labeled with cryptic symbols and a two-step on and off process that testers found frustrating (especially when it often took up to three tries to engage the power button). The handle was bigger, which was nice, but it was awkward to hold, and to grasp it comfortably you have to put your hand right over the screen. It also fluctuated a lot and scrolled through a lot of numbers to reach its target, which testers found confusing. The plastic cover on its control panel started to peel back during testing; it still functioned but made us worry about long-term durability.
Model Number: PT-55Range: 4°F to 572°FFeatures: Manual backlight, calibration, waterproof (3 ft for 30 min)Probe length: 3.9 inAverage read time: 4.8 secAverage margin of error in testing: 0.24° at 32°F, 1.7° at 125°FPrice at Time of Testing: $39.99
Speed
Accuracy
Durability
Ease of Use
Palermo Instant Read Meat Thermometer
This thermometer was accurate but took too long to read, and the probe lacked tension so that it folded up on us when we exerted pressure on it and it didn't go where we aimed. It had a bigger handle, but most of it was taken up by a control panel with too many buttons, and our hands slid off its sloped butt. It felt really flimsy and didn't rotate or have a backlight. It took two steps to turn on, which testers didn't like.
Model Number: DTH-81Range: −58°F to 572°FFeatures: HoldProbe length: 4.6 inAverage read time: 9.7 secAverage margin of error in testing: 0.94° at 32°F, 0.1° at 125°FPrice at Time of Testing: $11.97
Speed
Accuracy
Durability
Ease of Use
This thermometer was accurate but took too long to read, and the probe lacked tension so that it folded up on us when we exerted pressure on it and it didn't go where we aimed. It had a bigger handle, but most of it was taken up by a control panel with too many buttons, and our hands slid off its sloped butt. It felt really flimsy and didn't rotate or have a backlight. It took two steps to turn on, which testers didn't like.
Model Number: DTH-81Range: −58°F to 572°FFeatures: HoldProbe length: 4.6 inAverage read time: 9.7 secAverage margin of error in testing: 0.94° at 32°F, 0.1° at 125°FPrice at Time of Testing: $11.97
Speed
Accuracy
Durability
Ease of Use
EatSmart Precision Pro Digital Food Thermometer
This little thermometer was accurate but hard to use. The short 3-inch probe couldn't reach the thickest point of a large roast, and the handle was small and covered in buttons, so it was impossible to get a secure grip. It had a probe cover that attached to the handle to extend its reach, but it wasn't secure and fell off when we pushed the probe into denser meats. The control panel was too busy, with very similar-looking buttons labeled in small print, often for superfluous functions such as “max” or “set.” It took longer to read, and it malfunctioned from heat exposure when we were making caramel; while it did recover, we worry about its longevity.
Model Number: ESFT-01Range: −40°F to 450°FFeatures: Hold, max, manual backlightProbe length: 3 inAverage read time: 7.9 secAverage margin of error in testing: 0.3° at 32°F, 0.39° at 125°FPrice at Time of Testing: $11.95
Speed
Accuracy
Durability
Ease of Use
This little thermometer was accurate but hard to use. The short 3-inch probe couldn't reach the thickest point of a large roast, and the handle was small and covered in buttons, so it was impossible to get a secure grip. It had a probe cover that attached to the handle to extend its reach, but it wasn't secure and fell off when we pushed the probe into denser meats. The control panel was too busy, with very similar-looking buttons labeled in small print, often for superfluous functions such as “max” or “set.” It took longer to read, and it malfunctioned from heat exposure when we were making caramel; while it did recover, we worry about its longevity.
Model Number: ESFT-01Range: −40°F to 450°FFeatures: Hold, max, manual backlightProbe length: 3 inAverage read time: 7.9 secAverage margin of error in testing: 0.3° at 32°F, 0.39° at 125°FPrice at Time of Testing: $11.95
Speed
Accuracy
Durability
Ease of Use
ThermoPro TP03 Instant Read Thermometer
This inexpensive thermometer was accurate, but it took a long time to read, felt “rickety,” and was annoying to use. It takes three steps to turn on: You have to press a button to unlock the probe, swing it out manually, and then press the power button. Multiple testers unfamiliar with it pulled the probe open without releasing it first and broke the housing mechanism. Its head was smaller, with a power button where you want to rest your thumb. The button to toggle between Fahrenheit and Celsius protrudes from the bottom, so if the thermometer is sitting on the counter and you bump it, you switch the unit of measurement. The door to its battery compartment also slid off multiple times during use. It had a recessed screen and smaller digits, which made it harder to read, and it lacked cushier features such as a backlight and a rotating display.
Model Number: TP03ARange: −58°F to 572°FFeatures: NoneProbe length: 3.75 inAverage read time: 11.6 secAverage margin of error in testing: 0.14° at 32°F, 0.1° at 125°FPrice at Time of Testing: $11.99
Speed
Accuracy
Durability
Ease of Use
This inexpensive thermometer was accurate, but it took a long time to read, felt “rickety,” and was annoying to use. It takes three steps to turn on: You have to press a button to unlock the probe, swing it out manually, and then press the power button. Multiple testers unfamiliar with it pulled the probe open without releasing it first and broke the housing mechanism. Its head was smaller, with a power button where you want to rest your thumb. The button to toggle between Fahrenheit and Celsius protrudes from the bottom, so if the thermometer is sitting on the counter and you bump it, you switch the unit of measurement. The door to its battery compartment also slid off multiple times during use. It had a recessed screen and smaller digits, which made it harder to read, and it lacked cushier features such as a backlight and a rotating display.
Model Number: TP03ARange: −58°F to 572°FFeatures: NoneProbe length: 3.75 inAverage read time: 11.6 secAverage margin of error in testing: 0.14° at 32°F, 0.1° at 125°FPrice at Time of Testing: $11.99
This thermometer was one of the slowest thermometers we’ve tested. It was also one of the least accurate and reliable thermometers we’ve tested, delivering results that were off by as much as 2 degrees. It was lightweight and felt flimsy. The probe was also loose, so we had to use a little more force and care to insert it securely.
Model Number: PT-75Range: -40ºF to 450ºFFeatures: Automatic backlight, automatic screen rotationProbe length: 4.5 inAverage read time: 12.5 secAverage margin of error in testing: 0.4° at 32°F, 1.5° at 125°FPrice at Time of Testing: $59.99
This thermometer was one of the slowest thermometers we’ve tested. It was also one of the least accurate and reliable thermometers we’ve tested, delivering results that were off by as much as 2 degrees. It was lightweight and felt flimsy. The probe was also loose, so we had to use a little more force and care to insert it securely.
Model Number: PT-75Range: -40ºF to 450ºFFeatures: Automatic backlight, automatic screen rotationProbe length: 4.5 inAverage read time: 12.5 secAverage margin of error in testing: 0.4° at 32°F, 1.5° at 125°FPrice at Time of Testing: $59.99
DISCONTINUED
Speed
Accuracy
Durability
Ease of Use
ThermoWorks Thermapen Mk4
Our old winner is still the best instant-read thermometer on the market. It's dead accurate, fast, and so streamlined and simple that it's a breeze to use. It does just what we want: “Tell me the temp; get out of my way,” as one tester put it. Its long handle gave us plenty of room to maneuver, allowing for multiple grips, and a ring of slightly tacky silicone kept our hands confidently secured. The automatic backlight meant we never had to stop and adjust in low light, and the rotating screen is handy for lefties and righties needing different angles. The auto wake-up function is extremely useful; you don't have to stop and turn the thermometer on again midtask. The digits were large and legible, and it's waterproof in up to 39 inches of water for up to 30 minutes. It's also calibratable, promising years of accuracy.
Model Number: THS-234-457 (blue)Range: −58°F to 572°FFeatures: Adjustable automatic rotating screen (1, 2, or 4 ways), automatic backlight, sleep mode, auto wake-up, calibration, waterproof (39 in for 30 min)Probe length: 4.3 inAverage read time: 2.2 secAverage margin of error in testing: 0.13° at 32°F, 0.07° at 125°FPrice at Time of Testing: $99.00
Speed
Accuracy
Durability
Ease of Use
Our old winner is still the best instant-read thermometer on the market. It's dead accurate, fast, and so streamlined and simple that it's a breeze to use. It does just what we want: “Tell me the temp; get out of my way,” as one tester put it. Its long handle gave us plenty of room to maneuver, allowing for multiple grips, and a ring of slightly tacky silicone kept our hands confidently secured. The automatic backlight meant we never had to stop and adjust in low light, and the rotating screen is handy for lefties and righties needing different angles. The auto wake-up function is extremely useful; you don't have to stop and turn the thermometer on again midtask. The digits were large and legible, and it's waterproof in up to 39 inches of water for up to 30 minutes. It's also calibratable, promising years of accuracy.
Model Number: THS-234-457 (blue)Range: −58°F to 572°FFeatures: Adjustable automatic rotating screen (1, 2, or 4 ways), automatic backlight, sleep mode, auto wake-up, calibration, waterproof (39 in for 30 min)Probe length: 4.3 inAverage read time: 2.2 secAverage margin of error in testing: 0.13° at 32°F, 0.07° at 125°FPrice at Time of Testing: $99.00
*All products reviewed by America’s Test Kitchen are independently chosen, researched, and reviewed by our editors. We buy products for testing at retail locations and do not accept unsolicited samples for testing. We list suggested sources for recommended products as a convenience to our readers but do not endorse specific retailers. When you choose to purchase our editorial recommendations from the links we provide, we may earn an affiliate commission. Prices are subject to change.
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