The 5 Best Meat Thermometers of 2024

Best Overall Meat Thermometer

Kizen Instant Read

Probe Length: 4.4 inches | Measurement Accuracy: 0.7 ℉

The Kizen Instant Read is an impressive meat thermometer, bringing top performance and quality to the competition — not to mention that it's among the least expensive of all the models we tested. It features a large, easily readable LCD screen, magnetic backing, and a high waterproof rating (IP67). While many handheld probes claim to measure temperature in seconds, this model actually does it, clocking adjustments in just three seconds. The Kizen provides highly accurate measurements to a fraction of a degree, and it was as precise as 0.1 ℉ at points, tying the InkBird IHP-1P and ThermoPro TP19 for first place in our accuracy testing. This near-perfect precision served us well in grilling and baking, and you can easily recalibrate the thermometer should it lose accuracy over time.

Though the speed and precision are impressive, watching the rapidly changing temperature display is a bit jarring. Luckily, the Kizen includes a hold button feature that marks a minimum and maximum temperature until the button is pressed again. We should mention, though, that the hold button function does not include a timeout. The size and weight are also potential drawbacks, as it's not the smallest nor the lightest model we tested. You might want to consider a more compact model like the ThermoPro TP03 if you need to carry around your thermometer in the kitchen. Still, the Kizen sports one of the longest probes in our lineup, enabling convenient temperature checks that keep your hands away from the heat. For added convenience, the Kizen features a handy temperature guide for commonly cooked meats, saving you a Google search. Overall, we found ourselves consistently reaching for this device, and think it's a terrific choice for indoor and outdoor cooking.

Best Bang for Your Buck

ThermoPro TP03 Instant Read

Probe Length: 3.9 inches | Measurement Accuracy: 0.4 ℉

The ThermoPro TP03 takes the cake for a high-performing probe at an unbeatable price point — nearly half (if not a fifth) of the price of many competitors we tested. This thermometer continually outperformed its listed measurement accuracy of 0.9 ℉ in everyday cooking duties and lab tests. In both our high and low-temperature tests, we noted a much more remarkable precision of 0.3 ℉, three times better than advertised! Not only that, but this probe was consistently clocking in at under four seconds. This made it one of the fastest to read a stable temperature, just slightly outscored by the Kizen Instant Read in our speed testing. Its overall basic look may fool some, but the numbers don't lie — this is a foldable probe that not only holds its own but, in many cases, crushes the performance of a majority of the other thermometers in this review.

Despite the impressive performance, the TP03 lacks features. It does not offer a waterproof rating and comes with specific heat limitations. For instance, it explicitly states that you cannot leave the probe immersed in hot liquid or food for more than one minute without damaging the probe. The two biggest pitfalls are related to the screen: it lacks a locking temperature readout, and has one of the smallest displays we tested. Even the InkBird IHP-1P features a larger screen and is waterproof. Still, there is no reason not to try the TP03 as an entry-level instant thermometer. It is small and lightweight, with a clip-loop for carrying and convenient magnetic backing for attaching to your grill for easy access, making it an excellent companion for camp cooking.

Fastest Instant Read Thermometer

ThermoWorks Thermapen ONE

Probe Length: 4.3 inches | Measurement Accuracy: 0.5 ℉

True to its claims, the lightning-fast ThermoWorks Thermapen ONE consistently delivers temperature readings in the one second range. When cooking for a crowd or juggling kitchen tasks, that time savings adds up, freeing you to multitask while taking the guesswork out of cooking. The extra sharp tip slides into meat better than competitors, providing another slight advantage in efficiently checking temperatures. Not only is this thermometer heads above others in terms of speed but it delivers accurate results. This device provided temperature readings within its listed 0.5 °F accuracy point in both our hot and cold tests. As a bonus, the auto-rotating screen and large font make the display easy to read for both right and left-handed chefs.

Without question, this probe is fast and accurate, but it's also a tad bulkier and not as sleek as other contenders we tested. Although, what you get in return is a large and easy-to-read display. Even the similarly performing Kizen Instant Read is slightly more manageable. Lastly, the list price is high compared to other competitors, but might just be worth it for the time savings. The Thermapen ONE is also available in a wide range of color offerings, so you can customize your thermometer to match your kitchen features.

Best Ambidextrous Thermometer

Lavatools Javelin PRO Duo

Probe Length: 4.4 inches | Measurement Accuracy: 0.9 ℉

When it comes to meat thermometers, lefties often get the short end of the stick. But with the Lavatools Javelin PRO Duo, those ambidextrous chefs among us no longer have to settle for less. The probe has an oversized screen with a large, easy-to-read font that automatically rotates based on positioning. Not only is it highly accurate, but the Javelin is one of the fastest instant-read thermometers in our review, clocking in an average response time of just under four seconds — though that's not quite as fast as the one second read of the ThermoWorks Thermapen ONE. The backlight is the brightest of any we tested, and the probe has a motion sensor that triggers the backlight with a flick of the wrist, perfect for those operating in heat-proof gloves over hot, open-pit flames. Cleanliness is the name of the game in professional kitchens, and we appreciate that Lavatools impregnates the plastic shell of their probes with an anti-microbial additive to help keep this device clean in between washings. It also has a high level of waterproofing (IP65.)

Performance like this comes at a price — this model costs more than double most of the other instant-read thermometers we tested. If you'd rather own a simplified version, the ThermoPro TP19 is a more budget-friendly, ambidextrous option. During our calibration test, the Javelin PRO Duo was one of the few with zero deviation from 32 ℉. When temps reach above boiling, we found it tends to deviate up to 2 ℉ from an accurate temperature reading. While this isn't major, it is notably more sway than other top performers. And unlike some of our other favorites, you cannot recalibrate this thermometer if it loses accuracy over time. Like other ambidextrous models in our lineup, we wish the manufacturers designed the probe to fold 270° for a full range of use. However, for a professional-grade thermometer, it is tough to beat both the speed and functionality of the Javelin PRO Duo, especially for left-handed chefs.

Best Rechargeable Thermometer

InkBird Waterproof IHP-1P

Probe Length: 4.1 inches | Measurement Accuracy: 0.9 ℉

We love any product that is both energy and cost-saving. As the only rechargeable option in our review (meaning it can be wall-charged via an included USB-C cord), the InkBird Waterproof IHP-1P thermometer impressed us with its capability in this regard, plus its overall weight, size, and sleek design. Although the manufacturer claims that this probe only has an accuracy of 1.8 ℉, we found that its precision is much closer to 1℉ in our tests. The LCD readout is improved with an easily readable, large font, and rather than flash-updating, you can watch the temperature rise with rolling numbers. It's one of the few folding models that incorporates a snap housing for the end of the probe.

The backlight is one of the most powerful in our lineup, and it does a great job under kitchen lights. The downside is the LCD screen is difficult to read in direct sunlight, so it is not ideal for afternoon grilling. A model like the Lavatools Javelin is a much better option if you live in a sunny locale. While we appreciate that the Inkbird is fully rechargeable, we wonder what the charging lifetime actually is. We wish there were a way to replace the rechargeable battery if it ever dies. That said, after all our long hours of testing, we found the speedy and sleek Inkbird served us well on a single charge, losing just one battery power bar.

Compare Products

Compare select up to 5 products to compare

	Score	Product	Price
	86	Kizen Instant Read Best Overall Meat Thermometer	$30
	84	ThermoWorks Thermapen ONE Fastest Instant Read Thermometer	$109
	81	Lavatools Javelin PRO Duo Best Ambidextrous Thermometer	$57
	80	InkBird Waterproof IHP-1P Best Rechargeable Thermometer	$24
	78	ThermoPro TP19	$30
	78	OXO Good Grips Thermocouple	$105
	77	ThermoPro TP03 Instant Read Best Bang for Your Buck	$16
	69	Lavatools Javelin	$27
	63	ThermoWorks Smoke Remote BBQ Alarm	$99
	60	Weber Instant Read Thermometer	$17
	56	ThermoPro TP16 Digital	$20
	50	Meater+ Long Range Thermometer	$100
	46	CDN IRM200 ProAccurate	$19

How We Test Meat Thermometers

Before diving head-first into the grilling, roasting, slow cooking, and temperature testing, the first step in our thorough testing process is to complete our due diligence of online research. Our expert reviewers spent hours investigating the most popular meat thermometers on the market before selecting the most promising contenders to purchase at retail value and send through testing.

Our testing process involved real-world cooking, side-by-side comparisons, and scientifically-based tests to thoroughly scrutinize various aspects of the competition. The result is a comprehensive review based on hands-on experience with each product. Whether you are looking to ensure that you thoroughly cooked that chicken or boost your smoking game, our lineup can suit the needs of any home or professional chef.

Why Trust GearLab

We gathered a team of in-house kitchen experts, headed by Senior Review Editor Aaron Rice, who laid down the framework for this review. Aaron learned to cook from family at a young age and continues to devote much of his free time to cooking at home and sharing good food with friends. He also worked in and around professional kitchens for the better portion of a decade, including one headed by a James Beard Award-nominated chef.

Review Editor Kaylee Walden spent nearly eight years working in fine dining. These days, she's a backcountry skiing and expedition guide and finds herself cooking for guests in a variety of alpine environments. She also moonlights as a full-service hut keeper, where she cooks meals and makes fresh-baked goodies for large groups and cooks for private events — where perfectly cooked dishes can make or break the experience.

Analysis and Test Results

Aside from a timer, a quality meat thermometer may be the most important and one of the least expensive tools in a chef's arsenal, helping to consistently produce properly cooked cuts of meat. The ease of an instant-read or the convenience of a leave-in thermometer could be the difference between a memorable meal or an infamous culinary disaster (undercooked Thanksgiving turkey, anyone?)

We tested these thermometers side-by-side in ordinary kitchens, analyzing and ranking them according to a list of crucial performance aspects. We verified thermometer calibration over an extended testing period, grilled dozens of meat cuts to test internal temperatures, baked bread and smoked fish to test versatility, compared features, and measured specifications.

Testing meat thermometers is divided across five rating metrics:

Accuracy (30% of overall score weighting)

This is the cornerstone of how useful a thermometer is in your kitchen. We tested each model on its precision in ice water and boiling water. We also used a secondary thermometer as an “objective observer” to note measurement discrepancies while cooking.

Speed (30% weighting)

We clocked how long each thermometer took to deliver a consistent reading and conducted the test several times to establish an average.

Ease of Use (20% weighting)

Ideally, we want these thermometers to be so intuitive that a first-grader could use them. We assessed all models for ease of use, particularly considering the size, weight, probe length, and screen size.

Features (10% weighting)

We considered any additional bells and whistles that set a device apart from the standard, including utility features like waterproofing, temperature alarms, ambidexterity, and the ability to be calibrated.

Consistency (10% weighting)

We assessed each thermometer's performance in all of these metrics over time. We also correlated the desired doneness of a cut of meat to the temperature measured.

What's the Best Value?

The meat thermometers in our test span a wide price range. Interestingly, a higher price didn't necessarily correlate with better performance; some of the most budget-friendly options were also among the top contenders in each metric.

The primary attributes you lose with lower-priced options are additional features, like an ambidextrous rotating screen. However, our testing revealed that you don't have to break the bank to purchase a meat thermometer with high-level functionality and speed. Some of our top picks, including the Kizen Instant Read, the Inkbird Waterproof, and the ThermoPro TP03 Instant Read were all on the lower end of the price spectrum.

You'll pay more of a premium for the ultra-fast processing time of the ThermoWorks Thermapen ONE and the sleek design and consistent functionality of the OXO Thermocouple.

Accuracy

Without the precise measurements of a meat thermometer, you may as well be using the time-tested (but often poorly executed) "hand test". However, we'd rather not take that risk if we're cooking a pricey steak. Each product we tested listed a measurement accuracy per the manufacturer, but of course, we had to verify those claims through a series of tests. We noticed that many of the models included in this review exceeded their manufacturer claims and, as a result, were awarded a few extra points for continuously outstanding performance.

We also awarded points to the thermometers that can be recalibrated — this includes the Thermapen ONE, CDN ProAccurate, the Kizen, the Inkbird Waterproof, the OXO Thermocouple and the ThermoPro TP19. This is an important feature for chefs looking to invest in a high-quality thermometer that will serve them well for a long time.

Many thermometers are factory-calibrated by chilling an ice bath down to the freezing point — this is a perfect point of measurement because, unlike boiling, freezing temperatures do not vary by altitude. Unfortunately, two thermometers were excluded from this first part of testing: the CDN ProAccurate only displays a minimum temperature of 200 ℉, and although the Meater+ came within one degree of the mark, once the probe hit 32 ℉, we were prompted with a “low temperature detected!” warning message. Since there is no minimum temperature listed for this model — and its other temperature restrictions — we have to assume that this probe is at risk of damage from sub-freezing temperatures.

Since these meat thermometers most commonly check much higher temperatures, we also wanted to verify the high side of their measurement accuracy by using a boiling test. We backed that up with anecdotal evidence from cooking. Two of the ThermoPro models — the TP19 and price-point TP03 — continually produced exceptional results, accurately measuring temperatures within a half-degree precision.

The Kizen is also nearly as precise as the ThermoPro options; however, its speed causes the temperature readout to jump around rapidly, which can be mildly annoying when trying to lock down an exact reading. The ThermaPen ONE also impressed us with its consistently accurate readings for hot and cold temperatures, although it occasionally exhibited the same jumpiness.

Speed

An accurate, speedy temperature probe is a must for the professional chef, who often juggles multiple pieces of meat on the grill simultaneously, all set to cook at different times and doneness. While this same speed quality may seem like a superfluous feature for the home kitchen, consider how long you want to stick your arm into a 500 ℉ oven to take a temperature reading.

To test this key characteristic, we put each probe through a series of tests to see how long it took to achieve an exact measurement and then averaged those response times to represent their general performance accurately. While many models in this review are capable of sub-six-second measurement times, only four live up to the hype of their super-fast read times. The exceptional ThermaPen ONE consistently registers temperature readings in the one-second range. The Kizen and OXO GoodGrips clock in at just over three seconds, and the TP03 and Javelin PRO Duo in just under four seconds.

Understandably, the only manual option we tested, the ProAccurate, would have a much slower read time (21 seconds). The other wireless model could not come close to touching that pace. The Meater+ updates consistently, but it took nearly 38 seconds to establish a steady reading.

Ease of Use

For a meat thermometer to become a staple of any kitchen, it must be easily accessible and easy to use. We judged this metric on several factors: size, weight, probe length and thickness, screen size and brightness, and any additional qualities that might make a probe particularly user-friendly.

For example, the TP19, Javelin PRO Duo, OXO Good Grips, and Thermapen ONE all come with auto-rotating screens, making them easier for left-handed individuals to use. Similarly, only three of the probes we tested — the TP19, and the Kizen and Inkbird models — include a button that will lock a temperature reading on the screen. This feature is particularly convenient so you don't have to expose your face to the heat of a grill or oven or as an ally in the fight against forgetfulness.

The CDN ProAccurate is the only analog thermometer in this review. While this makes it very useful for long oven cooks — like a turkey — the probe is noticeably thicker than almost every other model we tested. The Meater+ also has a very large diameter probe.

The instant-read thermometers have very similar probe widths and somewhat similar lengths. The Weber Instant Read probe is the only non-folding, instant-read model we tested, though its probe length is nearly half an inch longer than most of the pack.

At the other end of the spectrum lays the Lavatools Javelin, with a probe length of only 2.8 inches. However, the Javelin is also the most pocket-friendly, instant-read thermometer. It's noticeably smaller in your hand when directly compared to the TP19, which is the largest of the models we tested. The Meater+ is the smallest, lightest probe by far, but only because it relies on your smartphone for a screen.

Screen size and brightness play a significant role in determining the font's usefulness and size on the LCD. While the Javelin has a small screen relative to its size, it features a large, luminous font that is easy to read in the kitchen and in direct sunlight. The ThermoPro TP16 and Weber don't have a backlight and are very difficult to grill with during the middle of the day. Preferably, a thermometer has a large, backlit screen with an easily readable font, like the Kizen, Javelin PRO Duo, or TP19.

Features

Sometimes, additional features add significant value to a product. Other times, they can be frustrating, leading to intentionally avoiding the gadget. Fortunately, most of the meat thermometers we tested are very straightforward. Practically all instant-read options have only one button and are very user-friendly. We awarded additional points to the Inkbird instant-read, the only thermometer in our review that is fully rechargeable via USB-C. While the Meater+ has a charging base, that unit is still battery-powered.

Since you will likely be washing the instant-read thermometers in the sink, we find it crucial that they have a waterproof rating when the probe is attached to the electronic unit. The Javelin PRO Duo and Javelin have similar waterproof ratings of IP65, respectively, while the Kizen is the only model we tested that can be fully submerged, with a rating of IP67. The ProAccurate is rated for runs through even commercial dishwashers but has no IP rating.

Most of the conversation should be devoted to the subtle differences between the programmable models when discussing features. For our review, this refers to all wireless options, plus the hardwired TP16. Although it doesn't include as many programmable features as the others, we loved the super intuitive interface of the TP16. A simple button operation allows you to set a timer, probe temperature with an alarm, or choose from several visually indicated, preprogrammed temperatures for beef, poultry, and pork standards.

The ThermoWorks Smoke Remote features two probes of different lengths that can simultaneously track temperatures on your meat and the ambient grill temperature, with a user-friendly interface and 300-foot range.

Firmly in the wireless realm is the Meater+, which is primarily controlled via smartphone apps. Both programs can set specific alarms, graphically track time vs. temperature, and offer various preprogrammed temperatures for meat types. In the case of the Meater+, you can even choose from specific cuts of meat.

The Meater+ and the ThermoWorks Smoke Remote have dual-sensor probes that can track ambient and internal temperatures. When testing wireless power, all wireless models lived up to the advertised distance outside. But when we tried to track food on the grill from across the house, the Meater+ fell short, while the connection on the ThermoWorks Smoke Remote held up consistently.

Consistency

None of these above statistics truly matter if the meat thermometer doesn't continue to deliver precise and quick results. It is also critically important that a temperature reading lines up with the doneness of your meat. While this was a bit more challenging to nail down than the other metrics (due to the potential user error of over-cooking), we did our best to survey the performance of each of these devices throughout our testing period.

We weren't just looking for continued high performance in objective tests of accuracy and speed. We also wanted to correlate temperature measurements and how close we actually were to our desired doneness, like how well a measurement of 130 °F to 135 °F compared to the quality of a medium rare steak. We were always tempted to continue to reach for the same few models because they objectively scored well in the other metrics and were consistent in their delivery.

A few models performed exceptionally well in this metric, helping us to produce dishes exactly how we wanted them, time and time again. Generally, instant-read options provided more consistency in how the meat was cooked relative to measured temperatures, timing, and accuracy. The Thermapen ONE, the OXO GoodGrips, and the Javelin PRO Duo demonstrated the best consistency over time. These models were also spot on in providing temperature readings accurately correlated to the doneness of our brisket, whole chicken, lamb shoulder, or tenderloin. The other benefit of handheld, instant-read thermometers is that many of them — like the Kizen and Thermapen ONE — can be regularly recalibrated if you notice their readings are slightly off.

Conclusion

An accurate and reliable meat thermometer is more than just a convenience; it's an indispensable tool for home chefs. Remember, cooking is all about controlling temperature. From baking bread to smoking brisket, we constantly test and refine our reading temperature proficiency and judge how well our food cooks. This ultimately helps us improve our craft. A quality thermometer will help you hone that skill so that the results meet your expectations. We hope this review makes your search for the perfect meat thermometer more convenient, and we will continue updating our selection to reflect the best tools on the market.

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