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Temperature accuracy is critical when it comes to smoking meat. If you’re going to invest in a smoker, it’s only fair that you do your homework for an adequate smoker thermometer as well.
As you probably know by now, there’s certainly a wide variety available and they all come with their own bells and whistles.
In this article, we’re going to take a look at some of the best smoker thermometers you can buy. For you to receive the most useful information, we’re going explain the main features, then dive into the pros and cons of each.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks for Smoker Thermometers
Comparison of the Best Smoker Thermometers
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How to Care For a Smoker Thermometer
Willy's Pro Tips
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Are All Smoker Thermometers The Same?
You might be thinking after reading the review that all these thermometers have pretty much the same features. That would be like saying that every car has an engine and a steering wheel. Of course they do. But the way you differentiate between different products is the efficiency and quality of the services they provide.
One thermometer might give good results up to 400F while others might do the same but up to 572F. Some have a range of 300 feet, while some have a range of 100 feet. Some might start giving false readings after a few uses, while others will last you for years. You will find all these examples in the products we have listed here. Which one you choose merely depends on your preference. Maybe you don’t need a thermometer that can handle extremely high temperatures, so there is no need to spend any extra money on it.
How to Choose a New Smoker Thermometer
Some things to consider before buying a new thermometer are:
Temperature Range
Sometimes, even good thermometers don’t give you accurate readings. That is because, after a certain temperature, their sensors stop working. You need to decide what temperatures you will be cooking mostly and buy the thermometer accordingly. For smoking, you need to maintain a temperature of 225F to 250F, so your thermometer should, at the very least, be able to handle that. Most of the thermometers we have reviewed here can handle up to 572F.
Connectivity
There are different ways a thermometer gives its reading. From the reviews above, you will have guessed what they are. A wireless transmitter gives you the most comfort during slow-cooking meat. Bluetooth connection, if strong, also serves the purpose, but maybe you shouldn’t go out of the house when using it. The simplest one will be the one that sends out no signals. You just put it in and check if the desired temperature level has reached. If you don’t expect to be moving around a lot while cooking, then it will do the job just fine.
Durability
Since cooking is something we do every day and a lot of people like using thermometers to get the perfect steak or grill, your thermometer will be doing a lot, and it needs to be able to handle that. The material of the body should be strong, and the probes should handle high temperatures. They all run on batteries, so the battery life needs to be long as well.
Willy's Top Picks - Best Smoker Thermometers
Here are the top 3 best smoker thermometers:
Review of the Best Smoker Thermometers
Now we're going to take a closer look at each thermometer and explain why they made our list!
Best Smoker Thermometer Under $50:
ThermoPro TP-08
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
This thermometer gives accurate enough readings (+- 1.8 F), and users are mostly satisfied with it. It works for long cooks very well. The alarm settings, long-range, and black light for lost connection have made things easier for grillers and smokers. It is definitely considered an upgrade from the inaccurate temperature gauges that come with most grills.
Why It Stands Out To Us
This is a digital thermometer with two probes; one for BBQ and one for food. This is designed to give accurate measurements throughout the cook. You can set a minimum and maximum temperature and receive an alarm if it ever goes above or below the given range. It is completely wireless, so you can monitor the temperature even if you are not standing next to the grill. It has a transmitter that has probes that go in the meat and a wireless receiver you can carry with you.
Number one on our list and the best smoker thermometer for under $50 is the ThermoPro TP-08 Wireless Remote Digital Cooking Meat Thermometer. Popular for good reason, this wireless remote thermometer offers chefs a great deal of features and comes at more than a reasonable price.
Main Features of the ThermoPro TP-08:
- Super simple set up - just add batteries
- Built in alarm to ensure proper cook time
- Kitchen probe measures 6.5” and BBQ probe measures 3”
- User-friendly temperature ranges from 32°F to 572°F (0°C to 300°C)
- Transmitter and receiver are pre-synced at factory - less work for you!
Who Will Use This Most
If you don’t like standing in front of the grill or smoker in all that heat while it is cooking, then this all-in-one thermometer will be a lifesaver. It is also designed for long slow cooks so you can sit back and relax with your family while the BBQ gets ready.
Bottom Line
This is our top pick for a smoker thermometer. It has everything you would need in one small device. Designed to sustain high temperatures for a long period of time, it gives accurate readings throughout. It comes with the batteries required to use it and a long 3-year warranty.
Best Selling Thermometer:
ThermoPro TP20
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
Nearly everyone who bought this thermometer was pleased with their purchase. The probe wires are long, and the connection does not break in long distances. People who have been using it for years still get accurate readings. The device is not too heavy to carry around, either. The manual that comes with it is very clear and helps with any inconvenience.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This thermometer comes with many qualities like long wireless range, alarm, and temperature range, among others. It is very easy to set up; you don’t need to do any syncing before using the receiver. It has some pre-programmed temperature settings for common meats like beef, chicken, pork, fish, etc. You can also set it for different cooking levels like rare, medium, medium-rare, medium-well, and well done. You can monitor both the oven temperature and the meat with its two probes.
Following the ThermoPro TP-08 is the Thermo TP20, which is also the best selling thermometer on Amazon. While the TP-08 and TP20 both come with amazing benefits, we’re going to review the main features first before taking a look at the pros and cons. Following this, we’ll also cover the similarities and differences between the two.
Main Features of the ThermoPro TP20 Thermometer:
- Upgraded wireless connectivity accurate up to 300 ft.
- Transmitter and receiver are pre-synced at factory
- LCD screen displays food and oven temp at same time
- Preset for 9 different types of meat and their doneness equivalent per USDA
- Probe cables can withstand heats up to 716°F
Who Will Use This Most
This can be used for BBQ, grill, oven, smoker, and all kinds of meat. You can use it for all of that while not missing out on any of the fun your family is having because of its long-range transmitter.
Bottom Line
While this is quite similar to our best overall product, it has its own distinguishing features. The setting up is easier, and the preset temperature and taste buttons are a bonus. The readings are pretty accurate, with an error margin of +/- 1.8F.
ThermoPro TP-08 vs. ThermoPro TP20
Similarities of the ThermoPro TP-08 and ThermoPro TP20
- Digital, wireless, and remote functionality
- Outstanding customer support offered from ThermoPro
- Stress free set up, ready to use out of box -- just add batteries
- Both feature dual probes that come with a lifetime warranty
- Transmitter and receiver are pre-synced at factory, saving you future headaches
Differences of the ThermoPro TP-08 and ThermoPro TP20
TP-08
- Lower temperature alarms
- Better for smoking due to low temp alarms
- Does not feature up and down arrows -- if you exceed temperature when setting alarm, you have to restart by surpassing max temp
TP-20
- High temperature alarms
- Higher end model -- more bells and whistles
- Features up and down arrows to increase and decrease temperatures
Best Bluetooth Smoker Thermometer on a Budget:
Inkbird Bluetooth Thermometer with Stainless Steel Probe
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
This is a pretty handy little device that users love for everyday cooking. Its mobile app (BB Go) also gets good reviews. It is user-friendly and simple. The Bluetooth connection is also strong. Plus, the alarm for the out-of-range temperature is reputedly very loud, so it doesn’t go unnoticed.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This thermometer is different from most others. It connects with the receiver via a Bluetooth connection. Its range is about 125 feet, which is good for Bluetooth. Instead of two, it has 4 probes. You can use it to monitor temperatures of the oven and three different kinds of meat at the same time. You don’t have to keep replacing the battery as it is rechargeable. The design is very sleek and compact. It has an alarm and a timer to let you know when your food is done. The app that connects with it has a simple and user-friendly interface. Its temperature range goes as high as 572°F.
Our top choice for best budget Bluetooth smoker thermometer is the Inkbird 150ft Digital Cooking Bluetooth Wireless Grill Meat Oven BBQ Thermometer with Stainless Steel Probe. This product is perfect for any one on the hunt for a high quality Bluetooth smoker thermometer on a budget. This moderately priced device has a lot to offer.
Main Features of the Inkbird Digital Cooking Bluetooth Wireless Thermometer:
- Wireless range of up to 150 ft.
- Easy to use Bluetooth technology and connects to Android and iOS devices
- Very accurate and responds quick
- App comes with a variety of useful extras such as timer
- Added bonus: comes with probe clip for grill
Who Will Use This Most
If you use a thermometer for cooking and hate replacing the batteries, then you will like this rechargeable one. Its range is not too long because it is Bluetooth connected, but it is long enough to give you room to move around in the house. Setting the temperatures is also much easier with its mobile application.
Bottom Line
Small Bluetooth thermometers with magnetic bodies come in handy while cooking. You can hang them up out of your way while you do your work. It’s very user-friendly and comes with a built-in battery and a charging cable that you can use to charge, even when cooking.
Best Bluetooth Smoker Thermometer:
Maverick ET-733
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
The wires with the probes are a little short, so there might be slight trouble with finding a place to set it. But it comes with a pull-out stand that can help. The temperature readings are accurate after testing. Some people have been using it for years without much to complain about.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This wireless Bluetooth thermometer is best for smoking purposes. It has two probes and a long-range receiver. It also has some preset temperatures for common meats like poultry, fish, turkey, pork, etc. You can also set temperature and readiness levels according to your preference. It comes with 4 batteries and grill clips too, so you don’t have to buy anything extra.
The Maverick ET-733 is our pick for the best Bluetooth smoker thermometer. All around, this thermometer is top dog among our other Bluetooth models and for good reason.
Before we see what recent customers had to say about their experience with the Maverick ET-733, we’re going to review the main benefits you can expect to receive.
Main Features:
- Wireless range of up to 300 ft.
- 4 AAA batteries are included
- Probe cables can withstand temperatures up to 716°F
- 15 pre-programmed temperatures for different types of meat and poultry
- LCD screen alerts user via beeps and flashes when temperature is above preset
Who Will Use This Most
This is built for long slow cooks that involve smoking meat. The 15 preset temperatures help with any kind of meat you might cook. The long-range is for anyone who doesn’t like standing in front of the grill or has too many other things to do.
Bottom Line
If you are going to buy a Bluetooth thermometer for a smoker, then this will be the best choice. Its range is long, and temperature measurements are pretty accurate. You can go as high as 572°F without damaging it.
Best Heavy Duty Bluetooth Smoker Thermometer:
Weber iGrill 2
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
This thermometer has room for four probes but comes with only two, and that sometimes annoys people. But its temperature readings are very accurate. The device is also small, and using it is not too complicated for anyone. The app is also simply built, thereby ensuring user-friendliness.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This Weber thermometer has options for attaching four probes that are capable of handling temperatures up to 716F. Its battery lasts for 200 hours, and it can measure temperatures of up to 572°F. Plus, you can download the iGrill app on your phone and connect it to the transmitter. It notifies you when your food is cooked.
Heavy duty and high quality, the Weber iGrill 2 carries the prestigious Weber name and is great for zeroing in on meat temperatures every time. This user-friendly product easily grips on to nearly any surface and clearly displays readings from probes. Below are a few of the outstanding benefits built into this thermometer.
Main Features of the Weber iGrill 2:
- 200 hour battery life and Bluetooth range of 150 ft.
- Use up to 4 probes at once; 2 included are pro-level resisting high heat and steam
- Customizable temperate alarms ranging from -22°F (-30°C) to 572°F (300°C)
- Easy to use app is compatible with iOS and Android devices
- Weather proof and built to last
Who Will Use This Most
You can use this for both BBQ and smoking on grills and ovens. Its long battery life is extended even more with the extra batteries included in the package. There is no complicated interface, just a simple application on your phone. This is preferred by many since we carry our phones with us all day.
Bottom Line
Bluetooth thermometers can be annoying sometimes as the connection is easily lost. With this heavy-duty thermometer, that will not be a problem. The 4 probe capacity makes it a versatile little device that you can use for all kinds of cooking.
Best Weber Bluetooth Smoker Thermometer:
Weber iGrill 3
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
The Bluetooth connection for this thermometer is strong and doesn’t break if you go inside, as reported by many. The user interface for its app is also easily understandable by everyone. The temperature measurements are also accurate, and the alarm system works fine as well. Setting the doneness levels on the app is simple and helps get the right taste for every user.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This thermometer is of the same iGrill series as the one mentioned above, but it is a newer model. A lot of the features are the same with some improvements. The app is compatible with both Android and iOS. The battery life is extended to 250 hours. It notifies you when the desired temperature is reached. The app also monitors fuel levels.
This thermometer only works with the Weber Genesis II and it's the titan of Weber thermometers. There are a range of excellent qualities that come with this model you should be aware of. Let’s see what sets this product apart from other Bluetooth smoker thermometers!
Main features of the Weber iGrill 3 Thermometer:
- Fuel level detection for propane grills
- Bluetooth connection has range up to 150 ft.
- On/off switch for knob light
- Option to use up to 4 probes at once - 2 are included with purchase
- Created to work with Weber Genesis II and Weber Genesis II XL grills
Who Will Use This Most
If you liked the previous Weber iGrill thermometer, then you will like this one too. The great battery life and strong connectivity remove any hassle or extra work from grilling and smoking. It is compatible with Weber Genesis II, Genesis II LX, and Spirit II gas grills.
Bottom Line
Four probe connections and extra battery make this a very versatile and durable thermometer. And who doesn’t love an upgrade? Its design is very sleek and modern. It is the perfect choice for your Weber grill.
Best User Friendly Bluetooth Smoker Thermometer:
Cappec Bluetooth Digital Meat Thermometer
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
The complaints about this thermometer are pretty much what you would expect from a Bluetooth device, mainly that its range is not incredibly long. But other than that, the readings are accurate, and the battery life is long. It is for simple temperature measurement with no extra complications, and it gets the job done.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This Bluetooth thermometer has two probes and a connection range of up to 100 feet. It gives accurate temperatures in as little time as 0.5 seconds and up to 482°F. The mobile app works with Android version 4.3 and above, iPad 3+, and iPhone 4S+. It has some preset temperatures, as well. You can also save your temperature readings for future reference.
We're giving the Cappec Bluetooth Digital Meat Thermometer the title of best user friendly Bluetooth smoker thermometer. This super simple device is very straightforward and perfect for beginners. To ensure this is the right fit for you, let’s examine some of it’s favored features and pros and cons!
Main Features of the Cappec Bluetooth Digital Meat Thermometer:
- Includes 2 stainless steel probes rated to withstand temperatures up to 716°F
- Bluetooth technology connects up to a range of 100 ft.
- Temperate reads from -4°F (-20°C) to 482°F (250°C)
- Easily connects to iOS and Android devices
- App has preset temperatures to help ensure meats are cooked properly every time
Who Will Use This Most
You can use this with your oven, grill, smoker, and stove. You can customize temperature settings according to your preference. It is very simple, with no confusing buttons that have little explanation with them. The app also has everything in the simplest interface. If you carry your phone with you all the time, then a thermometer connected to the phone will be a great convenience.
Bottom Line
Every Bluetooth thermometer connects with your phone through an app, but this one has the easiest design. Its range is good enough to let you move around and do other things as the meat cooks. It comes at a low price and gives accurate readings.
Best Waterproof Smoker Thermometer
Mister Chefer Food Thermometer
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
People love that this thermometer gives accurate readings fast. Even after years of use, it does not go bad. Its price is very low. It’s small and compact, which is why it is used by people not only for meat but also for pastry items and other delicacies. It’s very easy to use, and there is no hassle involved in setting it up.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This thermometer comes with a lifetime guarantee. You can use it not only for meat but also for other cooking purposes like baking, coffee, milk, etc. Its probe is 10.6 inches long and has an antibacterial tip to keep your food healthy and safe. After using it, you can easily fold the probe and store it. It has very high accuracy. It has a chart of temperatures for different meats to help you check if your food is done. It measures temperatures as high as 572F and is completely waterproof. Accidents can happen while you are cooking, but there is no need to worry as its construction is durable and is waterproof. It also has a magnet on it to easily hang it on the fridge.
Mister Chefer Food Thermometer for Kitchen and Outdoor Cooking is without a doubt the best waterproof smoker thermometer on our list. Reasonably priced (lower than the ThermoPro TP-08), this easy to use tool is perfect for chefs of all experience levels and is jam packed with a variety of excellent aspects.
Main Features of the Mister Chefer Thermometer:
- Measures temperature within 3 seconds
- Wide temperature range of -58°F to 572°F
- Built-in magnet to easily attach to a variety of surfaces
- Long stainless steel probe that also folds for safe storage
- Durable and made from strong ABS plastic
Who Will Use This Most
This can be used on grills and ovens for steaks, fish, chicken, bread, and beverages. If you worry about thermometer probes getting metals in your food, then you will prefer this model. It has no harmful metals like lead or cadmium in it.
Bottom Line
Waterproof, strong construction in a kitchen appliance is always a must because it can get frantic in there, and you might drop something. Its quick response time and options for both Celsius and Fahrenheit make it easy for anyone to use. It is one of the best small all-purpose kitchen thermometers.
Longest Range Smoker Thermometer:
Ivation Long Range Wireless Thermometer W/ Spare Probe
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
This thermometer has a low enough price for most people. Its range is also as they promise, which makes its use in smoking meat very convenient. It is not too difficult to use; even first-time users get the hang of it quickly. Setting the temperature limits is a little difficult for some users, but it does come with a user manual to refer to when stuck.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This wireless thermometer has an even longer range than the first two. You can go as far as 325 feet without losing connection. It has two probes for dual usage, and their wires are 3 feet long, which makes setting them up very easy. They can handle temperatures up to 716F. It has 15 preset temperatures for popular meats that you can change according to your taste preference. If you lose connection with the receiver or go out of range for more than a minute, it will send an alarm.
The longest range smoker thermometer on our list is the Ivation Long Range Wireless Thermometer. Not only does it come with a spare probe, but it comes with a handful of unique features. After we review the features offered by this thermometer, we’ll also review the ups and downs shared by recent customers. Let’s see what this product has to offer!
Main Features of the Ivation Long Range Wireless Thermometer:
- Wireless range of up to 325 ft. (longest on your list!)
- 3 probes with 3-ft cables that can withstand heats up to 716°F
- 15 preprogrammed temperatures for different types of meat and poultry
- LCD screen flashes and beeps to indicate when heat exceeds preset temperature
- Provides an ‘Out of Range Alert’ if you’re too far away for one minute
Who Will Use This Most
This can be used both outdoors and indoors. You can use it to keep track of the temperature while grilling, smoking, or baking. Its extra-long range gives you the option to move around and relax. The back-lit LCD makes it suitable for night use as well.
Bottom Line
Nobody likes standing in the kitchen, making sure that the food doesn’t burn while the rest of the party is in the backyard enjoying the day. With this long-range thermometer, you don’t have to worry anymore. It has the highest range you will find in any kitchen thermometer. It’s very easy to use as well with its grill probes and pull-out stands for the receiver and the transmitter.
Best Smoker Thermometer Under $10:
Weber 6492
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
This product is durable and simple. The battery lasts pretty long since it is not used up by any extra features, and customers are quite in favor of that. This product’s rotatable screen is considered convenient for everyone. The readings are also accurate, as reported by users. The error margin is +/- 1°F.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Now, this is for the very budget-minded shoppers. It has no decorative or advanced features, just temperature reading, and it does that well. It works with both gas and charcoal grills and gives temperature readings surprisingly fast. It also has an auto shut-off feature after 15 minutes to save battery.
Coming in at just under $10 is the Weber 6492 Original Instant-Read Thermometer. Don’t be fooled by its size, this instant read thermometer is ideal for quick reads and low budgets. There are some great features that you need to know about before making the executive decision on which smoker thermometer is right for you.
Main Features of the Weber 6492 Original Instant-Read Thermometer:
- Digital display reads very clear
- Thermometer automatically turns off at 15 minutes
- Built-in protective sleeve safeguards from wear and tear
- Adaptable between a variety of grills including charcoal and gas
- Head swivels, which makes for easy reading
Who Will Use This Most
If you don’t want anything fancy like times and preset temperatures, then this probe will be the best choice. It is simple and gives accurate readings throughout. You can use it for regular cooking as well.
Bottom Line
This is a perfect kitchen thermometer for easy and everyday use. Weber products are well-known for their quality, so they know what they are doing with this thermometer. You get fast readings, and the probe can handle the high temperatures that you get when grilling or smoking.
Conclusion
In the end, there’s a thermometer for everyone. We did our homework so you don’t have to. Now the rest is up to you. From this, we hope something caught your eye and you’re on your way to enjoying a great tool from our list. The best smoker thermometers listed above all come with their own unique qualities and are sure to provide you with accurate, consistent outcomes.
Every chef, master or amateur, needs a thermometer to ensure their meals come out as they had intended. We hope this review was useful in helping you make your next thermometer investment. Leave a comment below and let us know which one you ultimately went with, we love hearing from our readers. Happy smoking!
People Also Ask
If you still have some questions about which thermometer to buy or how to use them, you can read these frequently asked questions:
Where Do I Put the Thermometer in my Smoker?
For wireless thermometers, you can use the probe clips to check the temperature of the smoker. Put the probe between the grills on the cooking grate and pass the probe through it. Insert the second probe into your food directly and close the lid. You can set the transmitter on the side table next to your grill.
Are Dial Thermometers Accurate?
Dial thermometers are outdated. They are not always calibrated; you might have to do that yourself. They have an average error range of about +/- 1 to 6 degrees without calibration.
Can You Put a Meat Thermometer in a Smoker?
Yes, you can put meat thermometers in smokers. The products we have reviewed here have multiple probes; one for checking the temperature of the grill or smoker and the other for the food. So you can easily use it for both purposes at once.