The MeatStick Chef X Review: Revolutionizing the Way We Grill

What’s up my fellow backyard barbecue warriors! I’m back with another partnership with my friends from MeatStick to test their exciting new product and share my thoughts with the following MeatStick Chef X review.

I recently reviewed the new MeatStick 4X true wireless meat thermometer and loved it so much, that I was excited to get my hands on their latest product release.

The MeatStick Chef X is an upgrade from the MeatStick Mini and comes with many of the same upgrades as the MeatStick 4X. These upgrades make this a best-in-class, true wireless thermometer in my opinion.

The exciting part is, the MeatStick Chef X is being touted as the smallest wireless meat thermometer on the market. This makes it the perfect solution for smaller cuts of meat that other true wireless thermometers struggle with.

So how does the MeatStick Chef X work?

The MeatStick Chef X is a completely wireless leave-in thermometer that can be inserted into your meat and will continuously monitor its temperature plus the temperature of the grill. It then transmits the data to your smartphone or tablet in real-time. All without having to fuss with any wires!

Of course, I would never give you a product review without providing all the pros and cons to consider. In the following breakdown of my hands-on testing, I’ll give you my completely honest opinion based on my experience using The MeatStick Chef X while putting it through the wringer over multiple cooks.

*Disclaimer: MeatStick provided me with their Chef X for testing at no charge in return for my honest review and feedback. All thoughts and opinions expressed herein are my own and are not influenced by the developing company and/or its affiliates in any way. That’s my promise to you!

Unboxing & First Impressions

Packaging & Contents | MeatStick Chef X Design & Build Quality | Easy-to-Follow Setup Instructions

For those who have had the experience of using a fully wireless thermometer such as the MeatStick Original or the MEATER Wireless Smart Meat Thermometer, you’re likely familiar with the challenges they present when dealing with thinner or smaller cuts of meat.

The probes on these devices are quite lengthy and need to be fully inserted into the food to prevent heat damage. While they work well at monitoring larger cuts like briskets and thick steaks, achieving accurate readings on smaller cuts with these longer probes can be a real challenge.

Upon unboxing and laying eyes on the Chef X for the first time, it was immediately apparent that its compact size would be a game-changer for smaller cuts of meat.

Continue reading for a detailed account of my initial unboxing and first impressions of the Chef X.

Packaging & Contents

Let’s kick things off by discussing the packaging. Just like when I received my MeatStick 4X, the Chef X arrived in simple yet sturdy packaging.

After opening the box, I was greeted with the following items:

• 1 Meatstick Chef X Stick: the star of the show.
• A Chef X Charger/Extender: a handy tool that not only keeps the MeatStick Chef X powered but also extends its range for maximum convenience.
• A User Manual: a simplistic guide providing a basic over that included a scannable QR code that brings you to a webpage that provides all the necessary information to get started with the MeatStick Chef X.

Next, we’ll jump into my first impressions of the design and build quality.

MeatStick Chef X Design & Build Quality

When I first got my hands on the MeatStick Chef X, I was immediately impressed by its design and build quality. The sleek dark grey finish on the handle gave it a modern and elegant look, while the sturdy charging dock added a practical touch that seamlessly combined functionality and aesthetics.

Speaking of build quality and durability, the MeatStick Chef X excels in both aspects. The probe is made from high-grade stainless steel, ensuring long-lasting performance and accurate temperature readings. The handle, crafted from heat-resistant ceramic, features a stainless steel cap for the ambient temperature sensor.

The entire unit feels solid and well-constructed, and the small size provided a lightweight and sturdy feel when held in my hand.

As I unboxed the MeatStick Chef X, it became evident that this is more than just a cooking tool. It’s a beautifully designed and thoughtfully crafted piece of cooking technology that can withstand the demands of the grill while enhancing the cooking experience.

Easy-to-Follow Setup Instructions

MeatStick uses the same app for all of its wireless thermometers.

The included instructions that came with the Chef X inform you to scan the provided QR code which sends you to a downloadable app for your phone, which then guides you through the setup. It includes a walkthrough as well as instructional videos.

I found that the step-by-step instructions were quick and very easy to follow.

Features & Specifications of The MeatStick Chef X

Wireless Bluetooth Connectivity | Quad Temperature Sensors | The Chef X Charger Charger/Extender | App Compatibility & Features | Battery Life & Charging

As I touched on before, what really intrigued me about the MeatStick Chef X is its compact size without compromising on features. Despite its smaller size, it boasts a range of impressive qualities that set it apart from the competition.

First and foremost, the MeatStick Chef X comes equipped with quad temperature sensors, ensuring accurate and reliable temperature readings. This, coupled with its seamless wireless connectivity, allows for convenient monitoring and control of your cooking process. No more constantly checking on your food; simply rely on the MeatStick Chef X to keep you informed.

Durability is another big callout of this thermometer. Its sturdy construction and quality materials ensure it can withstand the rigors of outdoor cooking, making it a reliable companion for all your culinary adventures.

Add in the user-friendly app, which enhances the overall cooking experience by providing intuitive controls and real-time temperature updates. The MeatStick Chef X also boasts a good battery life, allowing for extended use without the need for frequent recharging.

Its versatility when it comes to cooking styles further adds to its appeal, making it a great option for a wide range of grilling, smoking, and roasting techniques. Plus, with its multiple probe capability, you can monitor different dishes simultaneously, ensuring each one is cooked to perfection.

Lastly, the MeatStick Chef X comes with a solid warranty, providing peace of mind and assurance in your purchase.

The MeatStick Chef X Boasts the Following Impressive Specs

MeatStick Chef X Specs:

• Approximately 3.7 inches long & 2.2 inches in diameter.
• True Temperature 4 sensors, consisting of one ambient temperature sensor and three internal temperature sensors.
• Dual-Shell™ technology provides high durability.
• Ceramic Handle can withstand ambient temperatures up to 572F
• Stainless Steel Probe withstands internal temperatures up to 212F.
• Wireless range of up to 650ft/200m.
• Deep-Fry, Sous-Vide & Dishwasher Safe.
• A single charge provides over 18+ hours of use.
• Versatile use, not limited to grilling or smoking, but with the Dual-Shell™ design, it is also suitable for sous-vide, deep frying, and air frying, and is even dishwasher safe for easy cleaning.

Charger Specifications:

• Powered by 2 AA Batteries (not included)
• Advanced Bluetooth technology Xtender built-in.
• Magnetic Back for Easy Access

Wireless Bluetooth Connectivity

The MeatStick Chef X takes advantage of its built-in Bluetooth technology to effortlessly transmit temperature readings to your smartphone or tablet. It is also capable of WiFi connectivity but requires purchasing the WiFi Bridge which is sold separately.

With its wireless connectivity, I was able to experience the freedom to move around without the hassle of dealing with plugs or probe wires getting in the way of my cooking process.

The wireless connection was truly impressive. Thanks to the 4X extender built into the charger, the MeatStick Chef X boasts an outstanding range, allowing temperature readings to be transmitted up to an impressive distance of 650ft.

Quad Temperature Sensors

The MeatStick Chef X takes pride in its quad-sensor design, which incorporates four strategically placed sensors within the probe. These sensors are positioned at the probe tip, in the middle of the probe, and near the handle, each capable of withstanding a maximum temperature of 212°F. The final sensor, designed to measure ambient temperature, is situated at the top of the handle and can endure a maximum temperature of 572°F.

For those who share my fascination with technology, you might be curious about how these three probe sensors work together to provide an accurate temperature reading, given their varying locations within the probe. To shed more light on this, I reached out to the company for some clarification.

Here is their response:

“Regarding the three sensors in the probe, our proprietary algorithm takes several factors into consideration when determining the temperature, and the coldest temperature is selected. This ensures that the temperature reading is as accurate as possible.”

This design strategy allows the device to deliver more precise internal temperature readings across a variety of meat sizes, leading to a better-cooked end product. The app even gives you a live view of the temperature for each sensor. That’s pretty impressive.

The Chef X Charger Charger/Extender

The Chef X Charger/Extender is where you store the Meatstick Chef X Stick when not in use or when it needs a charge. The charger also features a built-in Xtender that increases the Stick’s Bluetooth range up to 164ft indoors or 650ft outdoors.

It requires 2 AA batteries (not included) for powering the charger. The simple charger has a single button that allows for easy on/off control – press the button once to turn it on, and hold it for 3 seconds to turn it off.

An LED light on the charger indicates the battery level of the MeatStick.

Another question I sent to the company was whether you could you use multiple sticks with one charger, or do you have to buy a separate charger for each stick. Will they all connect using the same charger?

This was the reply:

“In regards to your question about using multiple sticks with one charger, our MeatStick X Chargers include a built-in Xtender that extends the range of up to 8 sticks, including the MeatStick Chef X and Mini. All of the sticks can be connected using the same charger. Additionally, for stick activation and charge, the regular MeatStick is for the regular probe, while the MeatStick Mini/Chef is for the Mini/Chef probe.”

Lastly, all MeatStick chargers or WiFi Bridge work with up to any 8 Sticks at a time for range extension.

App Compatibility & Features

The MeatStick Chef X app is designed with a focus on user-friendliness and intuitive design, simplifying the process of monitoring your meat’s temperature during cooking. After downloading, the app guides you through the connectivity and setup process in an easy-to-follow step-by-step process.

The app provides real-time temperature readings and sends notifications when your meat has reached the desired temperature. It also features preset cooking temperatures for various types of meat and a comprehensive guided cooking list, making it easy for even novice grillers to achieve great results.

The MeatStick Chef X is compatible with both iOS and Android devices, including the Apple Watch, providing accessibility to a wide range of users. The MeatStick app can be downloaded from the App Store or Google Play, and the device can be effortlessly paired with any compatible smartphone or tablet.

Battery Life & Charging

The MeatStick Chef X Stick has a battery life of up to 18+ hours of use on a single charge.

This means you can feel safe during those long smoking sessions without worrying about the battery dying mid-cook.

The charger has a magnetic back that lets you mount it on any metal surface so it’s always close by. The 2 AA batteries in the charger are also easily replaceable.

How Does the MeatStick Chef X Work?

The MeatStick Chef X is super easy to set up and use.

Here’s how to use it:

1. Before using your MeatStick Chef X for the first time, charge it in the included charger for at least 2 hours.
2. Remove the Chef X probe from the charger and insert it into the meat. Make sure the sensors in the metal probe are inserted into the thickest section of the meat. The metal probe also needs to be entirely pushed into the meat. Only the dark grey handle should be left outside of the meat.
3. Open the MeatStick app and press the button on the charger to connect to the device. The app will walk you through the super easy process. It is designed to be user-friendly and requires minimal effort to get started. When you see the “X” icon on the top right of the app, you’re ready to go.
4. Set your cook settings. The app will automatically ask you for the type of cook (i.e. what type of cooker you are using to cook your food with), type of meat, cut of meat, target internal temperature, target cook temperature, and alert range.
5. Track your cook. The app will show you the temperature of the meat as well as the temperature of the cooking device. The app will display graphs that visually represent the elapsed time and the fluctuations in temperature.

*Note: The charger should remain close to your grill or smoker for the duration of your cook. The included charger has a magnet on the back, so you can easily stick it to any close by metal spot.

Troubleshooting

• If you have trouble connecting the MeatStick Chef X to the app, make sure your phone, the extender, and the stick are all within range of the charger.
• If the MeatStick Chef X is not reading the temperature correctly, make sure the probe is inserted correctly and that the batteries in the charger are fresh.

If you have any other problems, you can reach out to MeatStick customer support.

Performance and Testing

App Functionality & Ease of Use | Testing Different Types of Meats | Accuracy of Temperature Readings | Range of Wireless Connectivity | Maintenance & Cleaning

I tested the MeatStick Chef X with a variety of proteins and sizes, including a couple of Ribeye, a Filet Mignon, a Beef Picanha steak, chicken breasts and thighs, and a fat Tomahawk steak.

I found that the Chef X was a reliable and accurate wireless meat thermometer, even when pitted against my ThermoWorks Signals Wi-Fi And Bluetooth-Enabled Wireless Probe Thermometer.

Now, let’s jump into the meat of the review as I cover the performance and testing of the MeatStick Chef X, putting its features and capabilities under the microscope.

App Functionality & Ease of Use

The MeatStick app is intuitive and requires minimal effort to get started. For a true wireless food thermometer like the Chef X that relies on an app to display the temperature, it better be the star of the show.

Here’s what I found during my testing:

It’s true, the MeatStick app is extremely user-friendly and easy to navigate, even for those who are not tech-savvy. I have used just about every remote probe temperature app known to man and I can honestly say, the MeatStick app impressed me tremendously.

Each step was guided, and every function was easy to find.

The app offers a range of useful features for temperature monitoring and alerting, including preset cooking temperatures for various types of meat and the ability to track the temperature of the cooking device.

Testing Different Types of Meat with the MeatStick Chef X

I put the MeatStick Chef X to the test with a variety of different proteins of different sizes, from steaks, chicken, and even a large bone-in Tomahawk steak and it didn’t disappoint.

Here are my findings:

• The quad temperature sensors output provided consistent readings for each different type of meat I tested with.
• I found that the MeatStick Chef X was able to accurately track the temperature of all the meats I tested, even the larger ones.

One note to consider is that the MeatStick Chef X is best used for smaller cuts of meat as the metal probe may not be long enough to get to the center of all sizes of meat.

In situations when a larger probe is needed, MeatStick has the perfect solution. The MeatStick 4X is the Chef X’s bigger brother and offers all the same specifications, plus some. At about 5-3/8 inches long, it is close to 1/3 larger than the Chef X and gets to the center of larger cuts of meat more easily.

Accuracy of Temperature Readings

The MeatStick Chef X prides itself on precision, and it certainly lived up to this claim. To put this assertion to the test, I decided to compare it with the ThermoWorks Signals Wi-Fi And Bluetooth-Enabled Wireless Probe Thermometer, a thermometer I can personally vouch for being extremely accurate.

Here’s a rundown of my findings during the testing phase:

The Chef X delivered precise temperature readings, typically within a +/- 1-degree range of the ThermoWorks probe readings when used simultaneously. The readings were not only consistent but also reliable during each cooking session, regardless of the type of meat, meaning that there were no unwanted surprises when it came time to eat.

Range of Wireless Connectivity

The wireless connectivity of a truly wireless thermometer like the MeatStick Chef X is undoubtedly one of its standout features, offering the convenience of remote monitoring. However, in my experience, maintaining a stable connection with such thermometers is always a challenge.

I’ve frequently encountered difficulties in maintaining a steady connection between the probe, remote, and app across many of these thermometers.

It is very frustrating when the connection fails to initiate or disconnects midway through a cooking session. Sometimes the probe resets, but other times it remains disconnected, leading to further frustrations. Wireless range often poses a problem as well.

So how did the MeatStick Chef X perform?

Here’s what I found during my testing of the Chef X:

The Bluetooth connectivity and range of the MeatStick Chef X outperformed any other wireless thermometer I’ve tested to date. I was able to move freely throughout my two-story house without any connection issues. I even headed out to my front driveway and across the street into my neighbor’s driveway, and the connection remained stable.

On multiple occasions, I was able to step away from the grill area and relax, confident that the Chef X was diligently doing its job. The wireless connectivity integrated seamlessly with the MeatStick app, delivering real-time temperature readings and alerts.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Maintaining and cleaning the MeatStick Chef X is a straightforward process that I found to be a breeze. Here’s how I managed to keep it clean and free from any leftover food residue or grease:

• Start by wiping down the MeatStick with a damp cloth or paper towel once you’ve removed it from the meat.
• If any stubborn residue persists, a gentle scrub with a mild soap and water solution should do the trick.
• Rinse it thoroughly under running water.

Once it’s dry, using a clean cloth or paper towel, it’s ready for its next use.

It’s also Waterproof & Dishwasher Safe

Here’s the cherry on top – the MeatStick Chef X is not only waterproof but also dishwasher safe! That’s correct; you can simply pop it into the dishwasher, and it’ll emerge spotlessly clean.

The MeatStick Chef X stands out from other meat thermometers I’ve used in the past. Its waterproof design allows it to be fully submerged in liquid, making it ideal for sous vide cooking and deep frying. And, as mentioned earlier, the convenience of dishwasher-safe cleaning is a significant plus.

However, there are a few warnings to bear in mind:

• Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials when cleaning your MeatStick to prevent damage.
• Ensure the MeatStick is completely dry before storing it in the charger to avoid any potential damage.

To ensure longevity, keep the charger and battery compartment dry and away from water.

The MeatStick Chef X PROs & CONs

Pros:

• World’s smallest all-wireless thermometer that is perfect for more delicate and smaller cuts of meat
• Even with the smaller size, this thermometer doesn’t skimp on features or performance
• Reliable and accurate temperature readings
• Long Wireless Bluetooth connectivity range for easy monitoring
• Durable design that can withstand high temperatures
• Waterproof
• Versatile in its cooking methods
• Good battery life with a quick charging time
• User-friendly app with useful features

Cons:

• May not be the best option for large cuts of meat due to its smaller size. Its bigger brother, the MeatStick 4X may work better in these situations.
• 2 AA batteries for powering the charger are not included. (It seems like a small nitpick sure, but for the price point, I feel like this should be included.)

Final Thoughts on The MeatStick Chef X Review

So, would I recommend the MeatStick Chef X?

Without a doubt!

With its advanced features and impressive performance, it outshines all other true wireless thermometers currently available on the market. Its wireless range, versatility across various cooking methods, and waterproof design are unmatched by any other thermometer of this kind.

Not to mention, its compact size is a game-changer, making it ideal for smaller cuts of meat and offering a level of convenience that is hard to beat. The fact that they fit all of these advanced features inside such a small design is impressive.

The team behind MeatStick has truly raised the bar for true wireless thermometers, setting a standard that I hope will inspire other companies in the industry.

If you’ve had any experiences with the MeatStick Chef X, whether they’ve been positive or negative, I encourage you to share them in the comments below. Let’s keep the dialogue alive!

Cheers,

Pat G.

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