Best Meat Thermometers of 2021 – Ultimate Guide

| Last Updated: January 10, 2022

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Overcooked or imperfectly cooked meat can be frustrating and inconvenient. However, if you are suffering from such a situation, we bring you good news. With the best meat thermometers at hand, you can always cook your food as desired. In this guide, we will be walking you through some of the best meat thermometers in the market.

Comparison Chart of the Best Meat Thermometers

IMAGEPRODUCT
  • Storing is easy and convenient
  • Temperature range of -58°F ~ 572°F
  • Makes use of a high-precision sensor
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  • Very quick and accurate readings
  • Able to detect meat's core temperature
  • Manual guide included
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  • Best for the Money
  • Reading shows on large LCD screen
  • Comes with several accessories
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  • Best Wireless Meat Thermometer
  • Can detect temperatures 300 feet away
  • LCD display is easy to read
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  • Best Digital Meat Thermometer
  • Equipped with digital timer
  • Able to withstand up to 716°F
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  • Best Bluetoother Meat Thermometer
  • Probes remain in meat throughout cooking process
  • Unique alert system
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  • Best WiFi Meat Thermometer
  • Custom alerts or notifications
  • Wireless meat thermometer
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What is a Meat Thermometer?

A meat thermometer is a type of cooking thermometer that is used to measure the internal temperature of the meat. Typically, it is used to measure the temperature of roast and steaks. Its purpose? Well, it allows you to identify whether you need to give your food a little more heat!

These thermometers can help you determine whether your food is cooked properly from the inside or not. This allows you to enjoy a desirable meal once the desired temperature is met.

Therefore, if you are looking for a reliable solution to solve your cooking problems, one of these might be it.

How Does a Meat Thermometer Work?

These thermometers are great at determining the internal temperature of your meat. Whether it is steak or roast, you can conveniently measure the temperature. Consequently, it allows you to decide whether it is cooked properly or needs more heat.

But how does a meat thermometer work? Well, a conventional thermometer consists of two parts, a display, and a temperature probe. The temperature probe is pushed into the meat for a temperature reading. As the internal temperature of the meat increases, it transfers heat to the probe, which is displayed on the dial.

As a result, you can now decide whether your item is cooked properly or needs more heat.

Willy's Top Picks - Best Meat Thermometers

Review of the Best Meat Thermometers

These thermometers are a great addition to your kitchen table, especially if you cook a lot. It helps you identify the ideal heat required to cook your meat properly. Moreover, it also features a ton of other options that facilitate your cooking experience.

In this section, we will be talking about some of the best meat thermometers.

Best Overall:
ThermoPro TP03 Digital Instant Read Meat Thermometer

ThermoPro TP03B Digital Meat Thermometer for Cooking, Instant Read Thermometer with Backlight, Kitchen Food Thermometer for Grill Smoker BBQ Oil Deep Fry Candy Bread Coffee with Pop-up Meat Probe

Pros

  • Comes with a 3-year manufacturer warranty
  • Provides instant readings in just 3 to 5 seconds
  • Has a temperature range from 50 to 300 degrees
  • Foldable design makes it easy to store and highly portable
  • Auto-shutoff available which turns off the display after 10 minutes

Cons

  • Lacks a backlight
  • Has reliability issues

What Recent Buyers Report

Well, the reviews say it all. Most of the reviews we received regarding the product were positive. Users believe that this meat thermometer is super-fast and accurate. Some users also mentioned the durability of this thermometer as they have been using it for quite some time.

Why it Stands Out to Us

We find this to be one of the best food thermometers. It is capable of delivering a reading in just 3 to 5 seconds. Moreover, it has a temperature range from 50 to 300 degrees. Also, it comes with an auto-shutoff feature to protect the device and ensure long battery life.

Who Will Use This Most

Well, if you are looking for a reliable thermometer, go for this model. It has a ton of useful features and accurate measurement capabilities. In addition, it features a foldable design that makes it very convenient to store or carry.

Bottom Line

All in all, this is one of the best thermometers available on the market. It is simply phenomenal when it comes to accurate temperature measurements. We highly urge you to invest in this product. It comes with a 3-year warranty.

Runner-up:
Habor 022 Meat Thermometer

Pros

  • Very easy to use
  • Has a long probe for protection
  • Can be stored or carried conveniently
  • Offers fast readings in just 4 to 6 seconds
  • Features auto-shutoff feature for extended battery life

Cons

  • Several users reported false readings
  • Top electronic part of this thermometer is not waterproof

What Recent Buyers Report

An overwhelming response from the users suggests that this thermometer is a must buy. It features a handful of useful features that allows it to measure the temperature readings perfectly. Most of the users were pretty satisfied with the purchase and consider it as a safe to invest product.

Why it Stands Out to Us

This is a renowned meat thermometer used in the kitchen. It features instant temperature readings in just 4 to 6 seconds. Most importantly, it features a user-friendly design. The probe is long enough to protect you from burns or injury while measuring temperature.

Who Will Use This Most

If you are looking for a product that is safe and convenient, buy this one. It offers a long probe for protection. Moreover, it is quite easy to use and also features an auto-shutoff option. In addition, it is quite convenient to store it anywhere you want.

Bottom Line

In short, this is the perfect item for your needs. If you need accuracy with user-friendly design, this model will not disappoint you as it makes for a great investment. What are you waiting for then? Buy now!

Best for the Money:
Kizen Instant Read Meat Thermometer

Pros

  • Has an IP67 waterproof rating
  • Offers high durability and resilience
  • Quick readings in just 2 to 3 seconds
  • Uses a large LCD screen for convenient readings
  • Comes with a lifetime warranty and 100% moneyback guarantee

Cons

  • Relatively slow
  • Several users reported defected product

What Recent Buyers Report

According to users, this is one of the most renowned products. It is renowned for its super-fast readings with high accuracy and precision. Of course, most recent buyers reflected the outstanding performance and reliability of this meat thermometer. It’s highly recommended by most users.

Why it Stands Out to Us

What strikes us about this model is its ultra-fast measurement capabilities. Amazingly, it delivers an accurate measurement in just 2 to 3 seconds! In addition, it features a waterproof design with an IP67 rating. Moreover, it is quite durable and resistant to high heat and temperatures for longevity.

Who Will Use This Most

Well, if you are looking to invest in a product that safeguards your investment, buy this unit. It is highly sturdy and heat resistant even at high temperatures. There is a large LCD screen that conveniently displays various measurements. Most importantly, it features a lifetime warranty.

Bottom Line

Overall, this is simply the best thermometers you can find on the market. It has everything you can expect from a meat thermometer. It is fast, accurate, and most importantly, it comes with a lifetime warranty.

Best Wireless Meat Thermometer:
ThermoPro TP20 Wireless Remote Digital Meat Thermometer

ThermoPro TP20 500FT Wireless Meat Thermometer with Dual Meat Probe, Digital Cooking Food Meat Thermometer Wireless for Smoker BBQ Grill Thermometer

Pros

  • No synch required for this device
  • Large LCD with backlit for dim lighting
  • Highly accurate with its stainless-steel probe
  • Comes with 3 years of manufacturer warranty
  • Wireless dual probes monitor temperatures from 300ft

Cons

  • Temperature reached alarm is not loud
  • Grill clip is quite hard to use and not functional

What Recent Buyers Report

An overwhelming response from most users is what we get for this thermometer. It is truly remarkable when it comes to design, performance, and features. It has some very useful features and offers a great addition to your kitchen equipment.

Why it Stands Out to Us

What strikes us about this model is the design and features. It has dual probes that are capable of monitoring temperatures from 300ft. The metallic probes are highly accurate and made of durable stainless steel. Additionally, it features a large LCD panel with backlit digits to enable convenient measurement readings.

Who Will Use This Most

Tired of conventional and slow working dial thermometers? Well, it is time to purchase this innovative model. Highly accurate and convenient, this thermometer is all you need. Amazingly, there is no synch required for this device. Also, it comes with a handy 3 years of manufacturer’s warranty.

Bottom Line

If you want a fast, accurate, and reliable temperature measurement, you should invest in this unit. It has a unique design and a multitude of features that take care of your temperature measurement needs. Also, it offers a handy warranty for reliable operations.

Best Digital Meat Thermometer:
ThermoPro TP-16 Digital Meat Thermometer

ThermoPro TP16 Large LCD Digital Cooking Food Meat Thermometer for Smoker Oven Kitchen BBQ Grill Thermometer Clock Timer with Stainless Steel Temperature Probe

Pros

  • Has a digital timer for count down or count up
  • Promises 3 years of warranty upon registration
  • Highly accurate and is resistant to high temperatures
  • Can accurately measure readings from 0 to 300degrees
  • Features a cook mode for presetting temperature settings

Cons

  • Not waterproof
  • Pre-programmed settings are not reliable

What Recent Buyers Report

A high percentage of positive reviews is what we get for this thermometer. Users believe that this is the best item to invest in. Since it offers a ton of useful features with high accuracy, it attracts a large customer base. It is highly recommended by users.

Why it Stands Out to Us

We like that this model offers excellence in every regard. It features a cook mode feature that allows you to preset temperature settings while in operation. Moreover, it features a digital timer for count down or count up. Also, it is extremely accurate and is highly resistant to heat for a longer lifespan.

Who Will Use This Most

According to us, this is perfectly designed for users looking for an accurate thermometer. With a ton of other options, this product offers outstanding accuracy with heat resilience capabilities. In addition, it features a wide temperature range of 0 to 300 degrees for reliability.

Bottom Line

Are you ready to invest in this model? Of course, it is one of the best meat thermometers available. You can also safeguard your investment with a 3-year manufacturer warranty that it comes with.

Best Bluetoother Meat Thermometer:
Smart Bluetooth BBQ Grill Thermometer by NutriChef

NutriChef Bluetooth Meat Thermometer for Grilling and Smoking, up to 6 Temperature Probes and Smart APP, 400 Ft Range, LCD

Pros

  • Can be placed inside an oven while cooking
  • Large LCD backlit display for reliable reading
  • Has wireless features for convenient readings
  • Features a smartphone temperature-reached alarm
  • Stainless steel probes to withstand high temperatures

Cons

  • Doesn’t support Apple Watch
  • Sensor durability is not reliable

What Recent Buyers Report           

We were able to get positive feedback from most users that used this product. It is an amazing meat thermometer for measuring your meat's internal temperature. Users regard it as the best meat thermometer. Also, they highly recommend that you buy this meat thermometer.

Why it Stands Out to Us

What we like about this unit is its overall build quality. It features stainless-steel probes that can withstand high heat. Another interesting fact about this thermometer is that it can be placed inside the oven without any hassle. 

Who Will Use This Most

Well, this is a great product for you. You can easily record temperatures with it without worrying about damaging it when placed in the oven. Furthermore, it features wireless functionality for convenient readings. Also, you can get timely notifications of temperature-reached alarm on your smartphone.

Bottom Line

If you want to invest in a quality product, consider buying this unit. It has wireless capabilities and is highly convenient. The large LCD backlit display combined with digital connectivity makes it a great all-round thermometer.

Best Wi-Fi Meat Thermometer:
MEATER+ Long Range Wireless Meat Thermometer

MEATER Plus: Smart Bluetooth Wireless Meat Thermometer Digital | BBQ, Grill, Oven, Smoker, Air Fryer, Deep Fryer, Kitchen | Perfect for Steak, Chicken, Turkey, and More | 50+ Recipes in App

Pros

  • Features a guided cook system for perfect results
  • Comes with accurate dual sensors and a single probe
  • Perfect for outdoor cooking with 100% wire-free design
  • Promises custom alerts and notifications based on temp/time
  • Uses an Advanced Estimator Algorithm for temperature monitoring

Cons

  • Several issues with the design 
  • Doesn’t show the charge status of the device

What Recent Buyers Report

We nearly received all positive reviews from the users of this product. They believe that this item is highly accurate and delivers quick temperature measurements. In addition, users also praised the various features that it has to offer. They believe that it is the best out there.

Why it Stands Out to Us

This is a phenomenal Wi-fi thermometer that has dual sensors and a durable probe. The most amazing fact about it is the guided cook system. It has preset temperature settings and values for various meals that deliver outstanding cooking results.

Who Will Use This Most

Keeping its features in mind, this is perfect for outdoor cooking with a wire-free design. It is very reliable and user-friendly since it offers custom alerts and notifications based on temp/time. In addition, it uses an Advanced Estimator Algorithm that accurately monitors the temperature readings.

Bottom Line

All in all, this is a modern device for measuring internal meat temperatures. It is very reliable and convenient, considering the various features it comes with. We highly recommend you invest in this amazing product.

Best Meat Thermometer for Smoking:
GDEALER DT09 Digital Instant Read Meat Thermometer

GDEALER Meat Thermometer Digital Food Thermometer Waterproof Ultra-Fast Instant Read Meat Thermometer for Grill Digital Meat Thermometer for Cooking Kitchen Thermometer with Backlight & Calibration

Pros

  • Waterproof thermometer with IP67 rating
  • Comes with backlit LCD display and lifetime warranty
  • Foldable design with ease of use, storage and mobility
  • Can measure temperatures for solid and liquid edibles
  • Super-fast operation and provides reading in 3 to 4 seconds

Cons

  • Build quality is quite cheap
  • Customer support services are incompetent

What Recent Buyers Report

Users report that this is an astounding thermometer that delivers everything. They say that this product is quite remarkable with its superb performance and reliable temperature readings. Due to its great performance and reliability, it is considered the best among users.

Why it Stands Out to Us

Well, this is another waterproof product with an IP67 rating. Interestingly, it can be used for both solid as well as liquid edibles. In addition, its fast temperature measurement operations deliver precise readings in just 3 to 4 seconds. 

Who Will Use This Most

Since this is a superior item that performs exceptionally well, it offers superior performance than most traditional meat thermometers. The attractive fact about it is that it can easily measure the temperature of liquid edibles as well.

Bottom Line

Are you ready to take your cooking experience to the next level? Well, you will need this unit to assist you while you cook some delicious and safe to eat meat. It is highly recommended and makes for a great investment. 

Best Meat Thermometer America's Test Kitchen:
ThermoWorks ThermoPop Super-Fast Thermometer

Pros

  • Comes with a rotating display
  • Displayed readings are big and backlit
  • Ultra-fast readings in just 3 to 4 settings
  • Promises a splash-proof design for longevity
  • Features a temperature range of 50 to 300 degrees

Cons

  • Not available on online stores
  • Several users reported that the product doesn’t function as advertised 

What Recent Buyers Report

Recent buyers suggest a flawless and seamless operation while using this meat thermometer. This model has become an eye-catching sight for most users due to its fast and accurate readings. A large number of customers highly recommended it due to its superb quality and performance.

Why it Stands Out to Us

It stands out to us because it offers you value for your money. How? Well, it delivers a multitude of useful features that most meat thermometers do not offer at an affordable price. Also, it features a rotating display that can measure temperatures from 50 to 300 degrees.

Who Will Use This Most

Looking for a fast and reliable temperature reading? Well, try this model and forget about the rest! It delivers ultra-fast temperature readings in just 3 to 4 seconds. Moreover, it has a splash-proof design that makes it highly durable. Also, it comes with a large backlit display.

Bottom Line

To sum it up, it is, without a doubt, a professional meat thermometer. It delivers great quality and performance when compared with other meat thermometers. Most importantly, it offers you value for your money.

Best Meat Thermometer for Grill:
Alpha Grillers Instant Read Meat Thermometer

Alpha Grillers Instant Read Meat Thermometer for Cooking Grill and BBQ Griddle - Waterproof w/Backlight & Calibration for Food, Oven, Air Fryer Accessories, Kitchen Essentials, Stocking Stuffer Gifts

Pros

  • Comes pre-calibrated from the factory
  • Very easy to use and highly convenient
  • Blue backlit display and IP67 waterproof
  • Offers instant readings in just 2-3 seconds
  • Beautifully packaged for gifting and lifetime warranty available

Cons

  • Temperature range is quite small

What Recent Buyers Report

According to users, this is simply outstanding. It is one of the best meat thermometers available. Most of the users seem to be completely satisfied with the product. Users also reported precise and accurate measurements using it. It is quite reliable and performs as well as most users suggest.

Why it Stands Out to Us

What we like about this unit is its reliability. It features instant readings in just 2 to 3 seconds while it is simple and easy to use. Most importantly, it comes pre-calibrated from the factory. Also, it features a Blue LCD backlit panel that delivers convenient temperature readings.

Who Will Use This Most

If you are looking for a waterproof thermometer, you are in the right place. This is, without a doubt, a highly reliable and durable meat thermometer. It features a waterproof design with an IP67 waterproof rating that can withstand submerged circumstances.

Bottom Line

In a nutshell, this is by far the best thermometer. Why? Well, you can’t get any better than this meat thermometer with all the useful features and accurate measurements. Most importantly, it is waterproof.

Types of Meat Thermometers

There are different types of meat thermometers available on the market. Although they function differently, they serve the same purpose. These thermometers are a great option to measure the cooking level of your meat. 

Here are some different types of meat thermometers available. We will be discussing each of them briefly.

Instant Read Thermometer

Instant read or Digital Meat Thermometers usually feature a digital screen and a probe to measure your meat temperature. It is the most common type and is quite faster than the slow-working dials. 

Instant-read thermometers are great for meat, which is to be handled while cooking or a larger meat size. Since they are mostly battery operated, they are also known as battery thermometers.

ThermoPro TP03 Instant Read Thermometer

Wireless Probe Thermometer

Wireless probe thermometers are great for barbeques. You can actually leave the probe in while cooking and achieve real-time temperatures. As a result, you can monitor your meat’s temperature effectively without disturbing it. The wired probes connected to the transmitter, on the other hand, can deliver temperature and timing information on a receiver.

Infrared Thermometer

Infrared thermometers feature a point and shoot functionality. They determine the temperature using an infra-red beam with a laser sight. The amount of infra-red energy emitted by meat determines the temperature.

How to Use a Meat Thermometer

A meat thermometer allows you to determine the temperature of your meat. Consequently, you can decide whether or not it needs more heat. If you are concerned about the safety of your cooked meat, use a meat thermometer. Most importantly, you would like your meat to be safe to eat and delicious at the same time.

Here are some simple steps as to how to use a thermometer.

  1. The first thing you need to do is know the desired temperature of your meat. For chicken, the internal temperature should be around 165 degrees. Similarly, for porkchop, beef, or lamb meat, you want to cook your meat to an internal temperature of 145 degrees.

  2. If you are using an instant-read thermometer, all you need to do is push the metal probe inside the thickest part of your meat.

  3. Once the desired temperatures are met, remove the thermometer and place the meat on a plate. For beef, lamb, and porkchop, there is a 3-minute rest period.

  4. If you are using a dial thermometer, you can place it in the oven while injected in the meat. Note the temperature readings accordingly until the desired values are met.

However, if you are still uncertain, refer to the video below for an overview of what is described above.

How to Clean a Meat Thermometer

Cleaning a meat thermometer is essential before using it. It is because it can be unsafe and unhealthy. Most importantly, it can cause your thermometer to give an inappropriate reading. 

Therefore, it is always advised to clean your meat thermometer thoroughly before using it next time. In case you’re wondering how to do so, here are some steps to follow to effectively clean one.

  1. You will need a few things before cleaning a meat thermometer. These include alcohol swabs, soap, and a bowl of hot water.

  2. If you are using an instant-read thermometer, the first thing you need to do is take a bowl of hot water and place the stem of the probe in it.

  3. Make sure the stuck particles or grease are properly removed from the probe. Do not submerge the entire thermometer in the water as it can damage it.

  4. You can also use soap to clean the stem to eliminate any surface bacteria.

  5. Once done, use the alcohol swabs to remove any moisture or water from the stem.

  6. Now, your meat thermometer is ready for use again.

New MEATER+165ft Long Range Smart Wireless Meat Thermometer

Conclusion

Meat thermometers can be a great way to assess whether your meat is cooked properly or not. It would ensure your meat is safe to eat and delicious at the same time. However, purchasing a good-quality thermometer is essential for the desired results. In this guide, we displayed some of the best units to save time and money.

People Also Ask

Addressing the queries of the customer is essential to create long-term customer relationships. There are always some questions in the minds of customers that are left unattended. Therefore, to make sure they are answered properly, we have created a list of frequently asked questions. These will eradicate any ambiguities you might have regarding the product.

How to Read a Meat Thermometer?

Reading a thermometer is quite simple and easy. These thermometers are a convenient way to easily identify whether your meat is safe and cooked properly. All you need to do is push the probe in the meat until you get a reading. The reading is usually displayed on the digital screen available with the thermometer.

Should I Buy a Meat Thermometer?

Yes, you should definitely consider buying a thermometer. If you are concerned about the safety and taste of your food, a meat thermometer is a must buy. It allows you to identify whether your food is cooked properly or requires more heat. Consequently, you can achieve the desired results.

Can You Leave a Meat Thermometer in the Meat While It's Cooking? 

The answer is yes. You can actually leave a meat thermometer in the meat while it’s cooking. It gives you real-time temperature readings of your meat. This is usually the case with instant-read thermometers. Dial thermometers can be left in the meat while in the oven since they can resist high temperatures.

ThermoPro TP03 in use (Source)

How Do You Know if Your Meat Thermometer is Accurate? 

In order to check whether your thermometer is accurate, you can perform a simple task. All you need to do is place the meat thermometer in a bowl filled with ice water. If your thermometer displays a temperature reading of 32F or 0 degrees, it’s accurate; otherwise, you need to recalibrate it.

Do Meat Thermometers Work in Liquid?

Yes, some thermometers do work in liquid. However, these meat thermometers are waterproof with an IP67 rating. This means that they can resist various liquids even when fully submerged. Others that don’t feature waterproof qualities can result in operational failure.

What Kind of Meat Thermometer Can Stay in the Oven?

An oven-safe meat thermometer is a food thermometer that can stay in the oven. They are typically comprised of a dial or digital display with a metal probe. They are injected into the thickest part of the meat, which yields the internal temperatures.

Do Professional Chefs Use Meat Thermometers?

Yes, most professional chefs use meat thermometers to achieve the desired results. Obviously, you cannot achieve the same level of safety and taste without using one. A meat thermometer gives you real-time readings of the internal temperature of the meat. As a result, you can determine whether the meat requires more heat or not.

When Should You Insert a Meat Thermometer?

Well, you should insert a meat thermometer while your meat is cooking. Ideally, you should insert it when it is expected to be cooked. Make sure that it is inserted in the thickest part of the meat. Once the desired temperature is reached, remove the thermometer and offer it for serving after 3 minutes of rest.

Hey there, I’m Will, and I’ve been smoking and grilling for as long as I can remember. I made this blog to help others who are looking for honest and reliable info from someone they can trust. In my own efforts to try to perfect my smoking and grilling skills, I’ve done a lot of research and would like to have it compiled as a resource for others to use. Happy smoking!