This updated Top 10 Best Digital Meat Thermometers Ratings Guide for 2022 includes five new first time entries to this list that I am excited to share with you. Can any of these new entries replace last year’s choice for best wireless probe thermometer? You will have to read on to find out.
I put together this top 10 digital wireless probe thermometer rating guide to help you choose the best wireless grilling thermometer to fit your budget and needs.
*Note: I included a quick list of my Top 10 Best Digital Meat Thermometers below. Read on for more info on each, including pictures, along with my ranking system, a buying guide, and user tips. I also included a few bonus and worthy wireless thermometers that barely missed the cut.
10 Best Wireless Digital Meat Thermometers For 2022
- 1. ThermoWorks Smoke Wireless Thermometer
- 2. Maverick ET-732 Wireless Thermometer
- 3. ThermoWorks DOT TX-1200
- 4. Maverick ET-733 Long Range Wireless Thermometer
- 5. ThermoPro TP20 Wireless Remote Digital Thermometer
- 6. INKBIRD IBT-4XS Bluetooth Thermometer
- 7. Tenergy Solis Digital Meat Thermometer
- 8. Silipower Wireless Digital Thermometer
- 9. Weber iGrill2 Bluetooth Thermometer
- 10. INKBIRD IBT-6X Bluetooth Thermometer
Why This Guide Will Be Helpful For You
Digital wireless meat thermometers are an innovation that shouldn’t be overlooked. They give you the opportunity to monitor your meat to the degree and pull your food when it is at the perfect temperature for you while still meeting food safety guidelines. You can also follow the temperature of your grill, smoker, or other cooking appliances. They are a terrific addition to any griller or outdoor smoker’s toolbox.
With such a big number of products to choose from, it can become confusing trying to decide which one best fits your needs. It all comes down to being informed on the different choices to help you decide which is best for you. That’s where I come in. There is a broad range in prices depending on features and brands. Using this guide, you will surely find exactly what you are looking for in a wireless probe thermometer.
This product overview acts as a buyer’s guide to ten of the best wireless probe thermometers on the market today. I’ll show you what features to look for, and give you many options of digital wireless probe thermometers and price ranges along the way.
Why Are Digital Wireless Probe Thermometers Needed?
Owning a good wireless probe thermometer will take the guesswork out of cooking when it comes to both your food and your grill’s temperatures. And that is the key to awesome results. They give you the peace of mind of knowing the timing during every step of the preparation and cooking process for each piece of meat you cook. They are also a great way to boost your confidence to extend your grilling and smoking repertoire to the next level.
But if that’s not enough to convince you, then consider the safety aspects of using a food thermometer. You will never have to second guess yourself when you use a wireless food thermometer. Keeping food out of the danger zone and cooked to the proper temps to avoid the spread of foodborne bacteria is one less thing you will have to worry about.
Lastly, a professional chef friend of mine once told me:
The Rating Criteria – Best Digital Meat Thermometers Ratings
What matters most in a good wireless remote meat thermometer is accuracy, wireless range, and ease of use. The first questions to ask are how easily can I set this thermometer up and quickly be able to see an accurate temperature reading of my food and grill. A thermometer that is confusing, difficult to configure, has inaccurate probes and comes with limited wireless range can make a huge difference in the outcome of your cook.
The main criteria I took into consideration when reviewing these thermometers are:
Accuracy and Precision
I took into account the accuracy of each wireless thermometer. How precise are the readouts for both the meat probe and the air probe compared to my Thermoworks Thermapen instant read thermometer? The closer they match, the better.
Temperature Range
Any wireless probe thermometer with a temperature range between -58.0 to 572.0°F or better is considered very good. Any with a range between -4°F to 480°F is considered good. Any with a range between 32 ºF to 392 ºF is considered ok to bad.
(Note: if you are planning to use your thermometer only for grilling and have no need for below freezing or up past hot frying oil readings, this may be something you can disregard.)
Wireless Range And Reliability
Any wireless thermometer with a wireless range of 300 ft or better is considered very good. Any with a range of 150 to 250 ft is considered good. Anything lower is considered lacking. I also took into account the reliability of the connection and the speed of temperature updates to the wireless receiver.
Build Quality And Battery life
I took into account the quality and durability of the unit as well as battery life for each thermometer reviewed. 3,000 – 5,000-hour battery life is considered very good. 1,000 – 2,999 is considered good. 999 and below is considered ok to bad.
Usability And Features
Is the thermometer easy to understand and program and are the controls easily accessible and user-friendly? Does the thermometer come with any extra features like backlighting readouts, mobile apps, auto shut-off features and do they come with and support multiple probes? This is just to name a few.
While extra features are by no means a deal killer if the thermometer being considered is a quality product, I consider them “nice to haves” and factor them into my ultimate decision.
Price
I took into consideration price when comprising this list so I could provide a wide range of options ranging from top of the line models to low cost but highly rated and functional models. Is the value you receive worth the money?
Real User Feedback And Reviews
Finally but just as importantly, I took into account verified purchasers reviews and feedback. I scoured every manufacturer and Amazon seller pages for feedback and comments on 30 plus remote digital thermometers to narrow down this list of the best of the best. I don’t believe any review is complete without taking into serious consideration regarding actual long-term users and their experiences with using a product.
The Top 10 Best Digital Meat Thermometers
I broke down ten of the best digital meat thermometers using the characteristics mentioned above. These thermometers come in a range of prices and come with a variety of features. Let’s check them out!
“Editor’s Choice – Best Overall Wireless Thermometer”
– 2nd Year On My List –
The design involves a sealing process that makes the IP65-rated thermometer splash-proof. The display, styled like an easy-to-read dashboard, features the minimum/maximum temperature and high/low alarms, so there’s nothing complicated about it, and the backlighting allows you to see the readout even low light conditions during late night cooks.
The thermometer arrives already paired up with the receiver, so even fresh out of the box, it doesn’t require any setup. The receiver is capable of a wireless connection that holds strong as far as 300 feet away from the unit, meaning that you can head to the front yard or return to the kitchen while the meat cooks outside, and you can keep an eye on the temperature the entire time. Although the thermometer only has two channels, you can pair it with more than one wireless receiver, so that everyone cooking has their own receiver.
The ThermoWorks Smoke has a large temperature range of -58ºF up to 572ºF giving this thermometer a wide range of uses. With a reliable wireless connection of up to 300 feet, you won’t have to worry about spotty or lost signals.
PROs
- Can pair unlimited receivers with one Smoke thermometer Wireless range lasts up to 300 feet Highly accurate Durable Pro Series probes Has a maximum probe cable range of 700°F Transmitter has a magnet on the back Splash-proof Commercial Quality Upgradable WiFi connection option Long battery life
CONs
- Both the transmitter and receiver are a bit large Accuracy fades slightly with temperatures above 248°F
Extra Features Include:
- Ability to lock in temperature and set ranges
- Signals an alarm when temperature drops or rises
- Lanyard comes with receiver
- Backlit display
- Calibration Option
The Smoke costs $99 on the ThermoWorks website, but I often see sales that will bring the price down a bit. Even with the higher price of the Smoke, it’s still one of the best buys for your money. It gets way more right than it gets wrong, and you can’t beat the ThermoWorks reputation.
“Editor’s Choice – Best Mid-Range Wireless Thermometer”
– 2nd Year On My List –
Don’t let the fact that there is an upgraded model (RT-733) deter you. This is still a great wireless thermometer. The reason I have it ranked above the 733 version is that not everyone needs all the extra bells and whistles that come with the upgraded version. The 732 is still one of the most accurate and well made wireless thermometers on the market that will suffice for most user’s needs and at a lower price.
The ET-732 has a temperature range of 32 ºF up to 572ºF. A good smoker specific thermometer doesn’t need to go below 32 F anyway, right? The wireless range is at the top of the industry standard for wireless receivers. The Maverick ET-732 ranges to 300 feet and is quite reliable.
Ease of use is a big selling point for this thermometer. The transmitter and receiver come pre-paired right out the box. Just plug it in and attach the probes and you’re ready to rock! The receiver also comes with a backlight making evening grilling easy.
PROs
- Simplicity and ease of use Self Pairing transmitter and receiver Accurate temperature reading 300-foot wireless range Programmable temperature range for temperature setting Probe Max Temperature of 716°F
CONs
- Probe Cables are only 36 inches long No Auto Shutoff
Extra Features Include:
- Backlighted receiver display
- Temperature presets and alerts
- Countdown and count up timers and alerts
- Receiver comes with a belt clip and built-in stand
- Splash proof design
The Maverick ET-732 is built with high-quality materials and the function is easy to use. Maverick is well respected and one of the top contributors to thermometer arena. It sells for about $59 on Amazon.
“Editor’s Choice – Best Digital Probe Thermometer On A Budget”
– 1st Year On My List –
I say all that to say this: the ThermoWorks DOT is a small, simple thermometer that does just what it’s supposed to do. It only has two buttons, and those two buttons are all you need. Using the up and down buttons, you can set the temperature target you want to end up with when your food’s done. Stick the probe in your meat. Once the probe senses the finished temperature, the DOT beeps, and it keeps beeping until you press a button. The display flashes to alert you, as well, but it stops as soon as the temperature dips below the target.
One of the benefits that speak for the DOT the loudest is its versatility. Where many other thermometers are strongly recommended just for use on the grill or in the smoker, the DOT is a wonder in the kitchen, as well. Use it for baking breads or pastries, candy making, roasting, brewing beer, and Sous Vide, which is currently having a moment. Adding to its convenience, there’s a switch on the back that toggles between Celsius and Fahrenheit, magnets to stick the thermometer to your fridge or grill, and a tilted stand to prop it on the counter.
The ThermoWorks DOT has a temperature range of -58ºF up to 572ºF making this a thermometer of many uses. Both the current temperature and the preset temperature are displayed in big digits that can be seen from a distance.
PROs
- Uses Pro-Series temperature probe Accurate to ±1.8°F Probe can withstand 700°F Easy interface Splash-proof design Made of commercial grade plastic
CONs
- Only supports one probe channel Accuracy goes down to ±3.6°F at temperatures higher than 248°F
Extra Features Include:
- Magnetic back
- Splash proof design
The Dot runs around $39 on the ThermoWorks website. The DOT does exactly what it was designed for, and more. It’s a handy little thermometer that doesn’t take up a lot of space and fulfills a variety of cooking tasks. Finally, the quality and customer service that comes with a ThermoWorks product can’t be beaten.
“Top Pick – Runner Up Best Mid-Range Wireless Thermometer”
– 2nd Year On My List –
The main upgrades from the ET-732 include a larger, backlit screen that displays even more information. You can now see the custom set alert temperature at all times on the display. The controls have been updated to be more intuitive and the presets have been increased to fifteen types of meat to choose from.
The ET-733 has a temperature range from 32 ºF up to 572ºF, making the Maverick ET-733 a good meat specific thermometer. Its range won’t go below freezing, so maybe look further for a good all-purpose thermometer if you intend to use it for that purpose as well.
The Maverick ET-733 comes with a wireless remote, which works from 300 feet away. The remote’s screen is backlit with LCD and beeps and changes colors to alarm you if your meat goes above the preprogrammed temperature.
PROs
- The 300-foot range wireless receiver 15 preset temperature ranges that can be customized Saves your custom settings even when powered off Splash proof design Larger Screen
CONs
- Cannot measure below freezing temperatures Cannot pair more than one receiver at a time
Extra Features Include:
- Large backlit display
- Customizable presets
- Splash proof design
- Built-in stand and belt clip
- Countdown and count up timers and alerts
The Maverick is priced at $69 on Amazon and can be had in multiple colors. The ET-33 is well-built, easy to use wireless grilling thermometer. It has some unique and helpful features, and for the price is a good mid-range thermometer. Maverick has a great reputation as well.
“Top Pick –Wireless Thermometer With The Best Warranty”
– 2nd Year On My List –
The large backlit LCD displays both the food and grills temperature including your preset temps. It comes with two food-grade stainless steel probes with step-down tips designed to be faster and more accurate. The probe wires can withstand temperatures up to 716°F. The orange body of the unit is a good look too.
The TP20 has a temperature range from 32 ºF to 572ºF, making it a go-to meat specific wireless thermometer. The wireless range for this ThermoPro extends to 300 feet, to keep you cooking up a storm across dishes and distances. With temperature reading accuracy of ±1.8˚F, you can rest assured your food will come out perfect.
The TP20 is super easy to use and user intuitive. The nine preset meat temperature ranges allow even the newest of grillers to get started right away. An orange rubber sleeve case comes included adding another layer of protection and sharp look. You also get great customer service to go along with the well-regarded ThermoPro line up.
PROs
- Accuracy of ±1.8˚F Receiver belt clip and countertop stand No receiver synch required! 300-foot range wireless receiver Excellent customer service and lifetime probe warranty Large backlit display Simple to use
CONs
- The temperature range is limited to above freezing temperatures No auto shut off feature
Extra Features Include:
- Lifetime probe warranty
- Protective rubber sleeve included
- Large backlit display
- Customizable presets
- Splash proof design
- Built-in stand and belt clip
This is a high-end thermometer with a nice wireless range. It costs less than $60 on Amazon. The fact the ThermoPro is willing to replace any probe, free of charge if it starts to falter on its temperature accuracy is worth the price alone if you ask me.
“Best Smart Device App-Controlled Wireless Thermometer”
– 1st Year On My List –
All you have to do manually is to insert the probe, honestly. You can check the temperature from up to 150 feet away with a reliable connection. You can also check the battery level via the app. That’s convenient because the unit is rechargeable. It comes with a cord so that you can juice up its 1000mAH lithium battery when needed.
Obviously, the easy to understand app reveals everything you need to know, plus you can access a temperature graph. However, the unit itself has a large and clear LED display, as well. You don’t have to pull out your phone if you want to monitor your meat old school style. It will function just as well as a standalone unit. Another convenience is the ability to rotate the display.
Since the thermometer unit has a magnetic design, you can stick it to the grill, smoker, pot, or oven. If you find that the display is upside down, the tap of a button flips it for you. That’s a small detail, but neat and completely useful. Fully charged, the battery should last about 60 hours, which is more than ideal for a long, low, slow smoke. The IBT–4XS offers a nice temperature range of 32℉~572℉.
PROs
- Easy-to-use and intuitive app Available as a 2-probe or 4-probe model Includes a 1-year warranty from INKBIRD Can withstand temperatures up to 572℉ Temperatures accurate to within ±2℉ Large rotatable LCD displays both food and grill temps Good accuracy Streamlined and sharp design
CONs
- Bluetooth connection only good to 150 feet No cord wrap system
Extra Features Include:
- Extra-long 60-inch probe cables
- Rotatable display
- Strong magnetic back
- Free downloadable App with temperature presets
- USB charging
The INKBIRD IBT-4XS comes in at a price of $59.99 with four probes and $49.99 with two probes. You can always purchase additional probes later if you find you want them. The cool factor, the accuracy, and the warranty make the INKBIRD Bluetooth Thermometer worth the buy. Its disadvantages are inconvenient, but they aren’t deal breakers.
“Runner Up – Best Smart Device App-Controlled Wireless Thermometer”
– 1st Year On My List –
It also beats out its competitors with its precision. Regardless of the temperature at which you’re cooking, the manufacturer claims it is accurate to within ±1℉. Whereas most other thermometers only guarantee accuracy to within ±1.8℉ or more. Since it’s probes tips are safe in heat as high as 716℉, you don’t have to worry about the temperature getting sloppy as the heat climbs. The probes can measure heat between 32 to 572ºF.
Open up the app and be amazed. There are 11 presets for every imaginable protein. Each setting hits on the perfect temperature for a particular protein, such as beef, chicken, fish, turkey, hamburger, veal, pork, and lamb. There are also presets for monitoring your grill like BBQ smoking, cold smoking, and hot smoking. Of course, if you want your food at a different temperature than the preset, that’s no problem. You just input customized settings that suit your preferences. The list of appropriate temperatures is helpful for novice cooks and new grill masters, though. It takes all of the guesswork out of the cooking process. You won’t ever overcook your steaks again, at the very least.
PROs
- Free lifetime replacement of probes 2-year extended warranty Convenient app Color-marked probes for grilling multiple proteins Available with 6 probe ports
CONs
- Wireless range only to 100 feet App can get buggy occasionally
Extra Features Include:
- Beautifully black lit LCD screen
- Easy to use downloadable App
- Comes with 6 probes and probe wraps
- Magnetic back
The Tenergy Solis costs $65.99 on Amazon. The app alone makes the Tenergy Solis thermometer a smart choice. The precision is impressive, as well. Again, there’s no way the cons are deal breakers.
– 1st Year On My List –
Like many of its competitors, it can handle temperatures as high as 572℉. It also has openings for up to 6 probes, meaning that you can monitor as many as six different pieces of meat, pots, pans, or baking dishes at once. Don’t worry about it getting one food mixed up with another—it’s a smart thermometer, after all. The probes are color-coded, which cuts down on any confusion for the chef, too. Each probe is composed of 4 inches of stainless steel that meets food grade specifications. It’s long enough that you don’t run the risk of burning yourself. The mesh cable is reinforced with stainless steel and measures 48 inches. The length guarantees that you won’t splash your thermometer with sauces or hot oils.
PROs
- Convenient, clear app Bluetooth connectivity Space for 6 probes Temperature presets Alarms and notifications alert you when your food reaches the desired temperature
CONs
- Connectivity could fade in and out depending on location and network stability Only monitors up to 170 feet away App sometimes glitches
Extra Features Include:
- Display backlight
- Magnetic back
- Free downloadable App
- BPA-Free silicon probe handles
- Excellent warranty
The Silipower costs $67.99 on Amazon. The interface of the app and the multiple probes are standout features of the Silipower Wireless Digital Thermometer. That being said, there are similar thermometers that do the same for slightly less.
– 2nd Year On My List –
The iGrill2 comes with Minimum and maximum temperature alarms as well as preset and custom alarm settings. Sold by Weber, and including their great customer service, it comes with top-notch quality and attention to the details that matter the most to a griller.
Although the iGrill2’s reputation and ratings took a big hit after Weber purchased the brand from iDevice, it was not because of the quality or precision had changed. It was more because Weber changed the awesome iDevice custom downloadable app and removed most of the fantastic features most users had come to love. Since taking that beating, Weber has been slowly but surely trying to update their new app with as many of the once loved features as possible. They are getting close.
The iGrill2 has a wide temperature range from -58 to 572°F, making it a true all-purpose wireless thermometer. The wireless range is based on Bluetooth technology and is therefore limited to only 150 feet, but the 200-hour battery life while employing Bluetooth helps make up for the lower range, in my opinion.
The iGrill’s Bluetooth connection and app make it super simple to use. If you can connect a speaker or headset to your phone, you can use this thermometer no problem.
PROs
- Four probe capacity Bluetooth Smart connection for use with free Weber iGrill App Very good battery life Temperature readings are accurate within 1 degree Fahrenheit in most cases Navigating through the App menu is easy and not overly complicated Super user-friendly
CONs
- Only 150’ line of sight Bluetooth connection The meat probe can be damaged if used or handled incorrectly
Extra Features Include:
- Magnetic backing
- Free downloadable App
- Large backlit display
- Battery saving auto shut-off feature
- Splash proof design
The Weber iGrill2 can be had for anywhere from $89 to $120 on Amazon. One downside to the iGrill2 is the necessity to buy extra probes if you want to take full advantage of its features. The iGrill2 only comes standard with two probes but can be upgraded for more. The need to buy extra products is just a bit unfortunate.
– 1st Year On My List –
Since both the sensors and the cables that connect them to the main unit are able to withstand temperatures up to 570℉, you can grill, roast, or smoke pretty much anything. The thermometers temperature range is 32~ 572°F.
You can download the app that runs the IBT-6x wireless Bluetooth thermometer for free. It keeps you updated about cook times and temperature readings. You don’t have to constantly check your food, which negatively affects the final product, anyway. Like other app-driven thermometers, there are presets for a variety of proteins and cooking techniques. You can leave them as they are or adjust them to your preferences. The alarm guarantees that you’ll know it the second your meat drops below or rises above the number you set.
PROs
- Holds up to 6 probes Easy-to-use app Accurate Protein presets 1-year warranty
CONs
- Can only monitor up to 150 feet away from the unit Batteries are not included
Extra Features Include:
- Heavy-duty thermometer base
- Backlit display
- Coms with 3 grate clips
The INKBIRD IBT-6X costs $59.99 on Amazon for all six probes. There are also options for purchasing it with only two or four probes at a cheaper price. The App and device are both super easy to use and the Bluetooth range while limited is very reliable.
Quality Wireless Thermometers That Just Missed The Cut
The following wireless thermometers each scored well and all have their benefits but had at least one flaw that prevented them from being on the above list. That is not to say that they are not worthy products and not worth considering. Just know what these limitations are.
This cloud-connected thermometer lets you log in through a WiFi connection to adjust your settings or monitor your cook from anywhere you can get connected to the internet.
You can get more info on the Fireboard FBX11 by clicking here.
You can learn more about the Maverick ET-735 by clicking here.
Besides that, the ThermoPro TP07 gets high marks for ruggedness, overall performance and of course, price. The TP-07 costs about $36 on Amazon.
You can learn more about the ThermoPro TP07 by clicking here.
The biggest drawbacks are not being able to clearly tell which is probe 1 and which is probe 2 in the initial set up. The button usage also gets confusing as there are several setting functions that use the same button. You really need to keep the user’s manual handy and that is not very convenient.
Lastly, and one of my biggest pet peeves, the temperature range can only be cycled one way so if you miss your preset mark, you have to scroll all the way through the temperature range again to hit your mark. It’s easy to imagine why this could be frustrating. If you can get over these minor annoyances, this is an accurate and sturdy thermometer. The TP-08 costs about $46 on Amazon.
You can learn more about the ThermoPro TP-08 by clicking here.
You can learn more about the G&C Ltd. GrillEye Bluetooth Thermometer here.
You can learn more about the Ivation Wireless BBQ Thermometer here.
Buyers Guide – What To Look For In A Wireless Digital Thermometer
When looking for the best digital meat thermometers, the proof is in the performance. The reasons to have a digital thermometer for grilling, smoking, roasting and more include improving your final food product and making the cooking process a bit easier. The less you need to worry about your meat being under or over cooked the better. Whether that means being constantly updated, having specific temperature alarms set, or utilizing extra probes, having additional safety nets is what having a wireless thermometer is all about.
There are some completely necessary aspects of a good wireless digital thermometer. There are also some aspects that might not be totally essential but are fantastic additions to the fundamental requirements. Here is a quick breakdown of what to look for in the best wireless digital meat thermometers.
Temperature Range
Cooking a great steak to perfection means knowing how hot it is through the whole culinary process. That means knowing the temperature from before you start cooking until you pull it off the grill (or out of the pan). Due to that requirement, having a digital meat thermometer probe that can give you accurate readings across a larger range of temperatures just makes sense. While you may not expect to use your thermometer to test the heat of volcanic lava (that would be cool though right?), the ability to test from below zero to well above 300 degrees Fahrenheit is a nice perk.
You won’t need to test below zero while grilling, but investing in a digital thermometer usually means you are looking to use it for more than grilling alone. Finding the thermometers with the best range of temperatures is a great aspect when shopping around.
Price
As the saying goes, “you get what you pay for”. Looking at customer’s digital meat thermometer reviews though, you can see that this is not always the case. There is a fine line between paying more for better features and shoveling the dollars out in blind expectation to get the best product. When looking at the price of a meat thermometer, balance it out with the features of the product. Is the quality worth what the seller is asking for? The cheapest thermometer doesn’t always mean the best deal, but neither does the most expensive.
Wireless Range/ Bluetooth Range
One the best options remote digital meat thermometers offer today is the ability to monitor your food for you without you having to hover over the grill. Don’t want to miss your favorite sports team playing on TV? Use a remote digital meat thermometer. Want to play a quick game of catch with your son or daughter? A remote digital meat thermometer has got you covered. Need to finish prep work or work on side dishes? Again, your best bet is a remote digital meat thermometer.
Some of the thermometers we are reviewing today use Bluetooth technology; others have a receiver that is set up specifically for that thermometer. Several have apps that you can install and use to monitor your food right on your smart device. Either way, we should expect that all the best digital meat thermometers will have some type of wireless capability. The ability to step away from your grilling, smoking, or other cooking, means you can work on another dish while you wait. Of course, always be sure to keep an eye on your cooking. Nobody likes a house fire.
Ease Of Use And Programming
Nobody wants a thermometer they don’t know how to use. If a thermometer is too difficult to set up or doesn’t work easily, the draw for that brand burns up faster than your unchecked roast. We want a digital thermometer that is self-explanatory or at least has a quick and efficient manual to walk us through the set-up process.
Also, the ability to program the thermometer gives such a huge bonus that we have come to expect it. Any of the best meat thermometer probes should warn you if your food or grills heat exceeds or drops below your desired temperature. This is one of the biggest incentives to buying a digital meat thermometer, so it should be included.
Overall Build
Extra perks and features are always welcome. Things like battery life, stability, warranties, and more all play a part in deciding which thermometer to buy. Even if they aren’t the most important aspects of a digital meat thermometer for grilling, the extras can make or break a purchase, especially with such stiff competition just a click away.
Wireless Digital Meat Thermometers FAQ
User Tips And Product Care Guide For Your Thermometer Investment
Where To Put A Meat Thermometer
Let me start off by saying, you don’t actually want to hit the dead center of the meat. The trick is to find the coolest part of the meat. Start by finding the thickest part of the meat. Then push the thermometer three-fourths of the way through. Now slowly pull back on the thermometer while paying attention to the readings. You will eventually hit the low-temperature point. This is where you want the probe to be.
How To Test A Meat Probe For Accuracy
1. Ice Water Test
Fill a large drinking glass with water and enough crushed ice to be somewhat slushy. Stir well. Insert the thermometer probe stem two inches into the glass without touching the bottom or sides. After 30 seconds, the thermometer should read 32 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Boiling Water Test
Using a deep pot, bring your water to a full boil. Insert the thermometer probe stem two inches into the boiling water without touching the bottom or sides. After 30 seconds, the thermometer should read 212 degrees Fahrenheit.
Calibrating Digital Thermometers
For those models that can be calibrated, use either the ice water or boiling water method. Submerge the probe in the water (only the metal probe, not the whole thermometer or the probe wire). Hold down the calibrate (reset) button if there is one or hold the On-Off button for 6 to 10 seconds or until the display reads the correct hot or cold temp.
Pro tip: If your thermometer does not come with a home calibration option, many manufacturers will offer to do it for you if you send it in to them. It doesn’t hurt to inquire with the manufacturer if your thermometer readings have become inaccurate.
How To Clean A Digital Meat Thermometer Probe
A little soap and warm water will normally do but you must be careful not to get the actual wires wet. Another method is using pre-made probe wipes. Probe wipes are specifically designed for food thermometers and are pre-soaked with cleaning solution to prevent harmful bacteria from growing. Last but not least, you can hold the stem of the thermometer in boiling water for at least thirty seconds. At 171 degrees, harmful bacteria will die.
Pro tip: Another excellent option is using pre-made probe wipes that are sold online. Think baby wipes but for your thermometer. These wipes are specifically made for food probes and are soaked with a cleaning solution that helps kill harmful bacteria that causes food safety issues. The CDN PW-90 Thermometer Probe Wipes are a good example.
Conclusion
The sheer number available makes it tough to choose the best wireless digital meat thermometers. The basic features seem to be found in every product. It comes down to a few points when really deciding.
How much money do you want to spend? The products on this list range from $30 to over $100. If you are a serious griller, the $100 option might not phase you in the slightest. For those who have their bank account in mind while shopping for a thermometer, the budget thermometers I reviewed here are also good options. They may not have every extra feature, but they will get the job done in an accurate and efficient manner.
What are you going to use your thermometer for? Having the ability to sense below 32 F comes at a cost. If you would like that ability, it is worth spending a bit extra now, then to reinvest later. But if you are sure you will only be using it for meat, there isn’t much point in paying extra for something you won’t use.
What level of technological know-how do you have? Though everything on this list is achievable by the Average Joe/Jane, the thermometers with their own wireless receivers will take little to no setup for use. That can be a big bonus if you don’t want to mess around with Bluetooth, Apps, or wireless internet.
Final Verdict – Which Digital Wireless Thermometer Is Best?
Once again, the Thermoworks Smoke Wireless Thermometer is my choice for the best overall wireless digital grilling thermometer for 2018. If you can afford the higher price, this wireless thermometer will be worth every penny. A close second is the Maverick ET-732 wireless thermometer and it will only cost you a little more than half the cost.
If you would like to leave a comment or have a review of your own to share on the best wireless digital thermometers, please do so below. We always welcome your input.
Cheers,
Patrick
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Hi Patrick,
If you ever decide to check out meat thermometer replacements that are not wireless, you should check out The Meatrix System. It uses a new, patented concept to determine the doneness of meat. It is much, much better at determining doneness than meat thermometers. It is so consistent that it allows you to select between 15 different doneness levels for each type of meat. It even guides you through the cooking process, so you know when to flip the meat and you know if you should raise or lower the temperature. If you follow the guidance, the meat won’t continue cooking when you take it off the heat. The doneness will be right and will stay that way. Plus it is the only device available to the general public that uses a USDA approved technique that allows you to cook pork and poultry to lower than typical temperature but still exceed USDA pasteurization standards. Pork and poultry will be twice as juicy as it would be if you cooked the meat to traditional temperatures. If you’re going to the World Food Championships in Dallas this month, stop by and see us there, in the Innovation Station.
Hi Rob and thanks for sharing The Meatrix System with us. I have read a lot about the Meatrix System lately and am intrigued.
Let me know if you would be interested in me giving The Meatrix System a thorough test run so I can share an in-depth and accurate review with my readers.
Keep up the good work.
Patrick
Hi Patrick. I’m glad you’ve been hearing about us. Maybe the word is getting around.
We’ve just returned from The World Food Championships, in Dallas. I was very pleased at the reception our technology received. In that environment, where everyone is looking for something to get any kind of edge, people were skeptical but open minded. Their curiosity brought them to us. Our live demonstration of what the technology does (as an example see the Chick’n Choken Challenge videos on our website) usually resulted in them walking away with their own system. We sold every unit we could squeeze into our van.
Teams would overhear other teams talking about us in a restaurant at dinner or breakfast and head straight to us. After the first day, we would have someone waiting for us when we showed up to set up our booth in the mornings. One team even bought 4 systems after seeing the demos and after they tried the first one.
Several grill companies came to us, wanting to talk. So you might hear even more about us over the next year or so.
I would be interested in you helping spread the word to people beyond The World Food Championships. But any review would have to include actually cooking several meats, preferably alongside a traditional meat thermometer so the results can be compared.
We’ve had other well known sites review The Meatrix System. But they always just compared the performance specs, as if this was a meat thermometer. You know, temperature accuracy, speed of temperature response, construction quality, etc. We’ve been pleased with what they’ve said but what sets The Meatrix System light years beyond meat thermometers can only be seen by cooking meat side by side with these devices which have their roots in the 1970’s.
You can get more information at our website, Imagitronix.com . Also, we can be reached at Sales@Imagitronix.com .