The Best BBQ Thermometer Money Can Buy In 2021

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With the right grill, anything is possible, and creating the perfect meal is much simpler. However, most meat needs to be cooked at the ideal temperature.

Yes, you can cook it at random, but this does not guarantee the perfect tenderness. Nor does it keep the dish from being potentially overcooked when you don’t monitor it.

The best BBQ thermometer is designed to get you ready for the perfect dish. You don’t have to use your hand any longer to guess the temperatures. With a thermometer, you will know when it is the right time to start cooking.

In this article, we explore the 12 best thermometers on the market today. Read to see which one is the best.

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Top 3 Recommendations

Best BBQ Thermometer: Top 12 Reviews

If you think about the thermometer, it might seem like a reasonably simple task. You only need to find something that will tell you the temperature.

However, a barbecue thermometer can have more to it than this, as we will discuss below. To get you started, let’s first have a more in-depth look at the top thermometer used by chefs today.

ThermoPro TP-08S Wireless Remote Digital Thermometer – Best Overall BBQ Thermometer

The brand ThermoPro is one of the best brands that you can find for all your thermometer needs. And their ThermoPro TP-08S Wireless Remote Digital Thermometer stands out as one of the all-time best.

The unit has two stainless steel probes like most of the others that are extremely sensitive and accurate to use.

These probes and the wires they are attached to can withstand a whopping 716°F, ensuring that all your cooking needs are sufficiently met.

The unit has a decent receiver allowing wireless communication of up to 300-feet, which does not get any less when you enter the inside of your home.

What makes this one stand out over the others from the brand is the fact that you can efficiently use it indoors as well. Stick the probes in your oven, and you’ll have some versatility to work with when you are cooking.

Additionally, it has a timer, allowing the chef to keep track of the vegetable times as well as the meat.

While the top thermometers from this brand can be expensive, the reason we have chosen it as the best overall barbecue thermometer is due to the price.

If you want something affordable that will help you cook your meat effectively, the ThermoPro TP-08S Wireless Remote Digital Thermometer is your best friend.

Pros
  • 300-feet range
  • Withstands 716°F
  • Timer for vegetables included
  • Can be used indoors and outdoors
  • Reasonably priced
Cons
  • Occasionally loses connection to the receiver

Inkbird IBT-4XP BBQ Thermometer – Best 4-Probe BBQ Thermometer

If you are looking to cook for four people, you might need to consider the Inkbird IBT-4XP BBQ Thermometer as one of the top options.

It includes not only 2, but 4 stainless steel probes that will all connect to the same unit. This now makes it possible to cook all the meals to perfection in one go.

While most of the other units need batteries, you will eventually have to replace; this thermometer has a built-in 1000mAh lithium-ion battery. The battery can be recharged after each barbecue, saving you on the additional costs.

When looking at the unit, it might be small, but the cords can still withstand up to 472-degrees Fahrenheit of constant monitoring.

You will need to have your Bluetooth activated, and the unit does connect to an app on your mobile device. This not only removes the need to carry a monitor, but it also sends you temperature updates.

Unfortunately, the receiving range is only around 50-feet, which is the same as your standard Bluetooth connections.

As for the price, it might be a little more expensive than many of the others, but if you consider that you get four probes, it is definitely worth the price. The unit is protected by a standard 1-year limited warranty, which should give you enough peace of mind to test out all of these unique features for yourself.

Pros
  • Extremely accurate
  • Includes four probes
  • Rechargeable lithium-ion battery
  • Small and looks great
  • 1-year limited warranty
Cons
  • Expensive
  • Only has a 50-feet range

Kizen Digital Meat Thermometers - The Most Affordable Digital Thermometer

And last but not least are Kizen Digital Meat thermometers known for their precision and simplicity. Just like the ThermoPro model, this model is pocket-sized for maximum convenience and ease of use, allowing the cooks always to have their precious tool at hand.

It’s a foldable model with only one probe, incredibly accurate and fast. The temperature is measured in three to five seconds, and of course, if you don’t fold it back, after a while, the value is being erased.

The Kizen thermometer doesn’t use a Bluetooth connection; it measures and displays the temperature directly on the small LCD. It’s incredibly practical because you can use it for solid food and beverages and liquids too.

The temperature accuracy is +- 1°F, and as I mentioned, the time for temperature determination is around three seconds.

Since it has a magnetic back, you can attach it to any metal surface, but it also has a hook for convenient hanging.

Besides multiple storing options, it also has multiple settings, letting you determine the temperature and timing to your preference.

The entire device is heavy-duty, well-built, and waterproof, so durability is not something customers complain about. And it’s one of the most affordable thermometers on the market, so it most certainly has amazing quality per price ratio.

Pros
  • Small
  • Compact
  • Three colors
  • Accurate
  • Pocket-size
  • Affordable
Cons
  • No Bluetooth connection

Weber iGrill 2 Thermometer – Best Modern Thermometer

Not all grills need a wireless thermometer, and most people consider standing next to the barbecue a fun thing when they have some company. The Weber iGrill 2 Thermometer is one of those thermometers that will allow you to stand next to the grill, while continually keeping an eye on the temperature of the meat as it grills.

The grill comes with two probes. However, it does have the capacity to hold four probes if you have multiple types of meat cooking.

The cables and the probes are made from solid food-grade stainless steel and can withstand up to 716-degrees Fahrenheit. This is ideal for cooking almost any type of meat you can find.

Much like the wireless versions, you can set up this thermometer with Bluetooth on your mobile device. It might not have the same range as your wireless options but can still notify you from around 50-feet. 

The unit includes a standard battery, and this battery can last you up to 200-hours, which makes for plenty of grilling time.

One unfortunate issue is the price. The unit is made by one of the top grilling companies in the world. However, it is also one of the most expensive on the market today.

It does allow you to use the iWeber App, which should also be considered a win for many people that love grilling.

Pros
  • Resists up to 716-degrees Fahrenheit
  • Holds up to 4-probes
  • Can still reach around 50-feet with Bluetooth
  • Gives you access to the iWeber App
  • 200-hour battery life
Cons
  • It is pricey
  • The App might disconnect often

NutriChef Smart Bluetooth BBQ Grill Thermometer – Best Bluetooth BBQ Thermometer

If you need something that will connect with your mobile device, the NutriChef Smart Bluetooth BBQ Grill Thermometer is the perfect option. The unit is constructed with hardened stainless steel probes that can withstand 482-degrees Fahrenheit.

Outdoors the Bluetooth unit has a range that reaches up to 200-feet. It might be a little less indoors at 100-feet, but you will still be able to monitor the barbecue continually.

With a 32-inch cable that comes from the probe, you can easily keep all of the hardware safe and out of reach of the grill, making it easier to withstand the temperatures.

One of the top features of this unit is that you need to download and app to make it work. Since you are already carrying a mobile device with you, it won't be another device that needs to be carried along.

Additionally, it is quiet and only makes a sound once the meat has reached a specific temperature.

With all these features, the unit has been priced quite well. It is not too expensive, and still really affordable for the avid grill master.

However, the unit does not have the set temperatures already on the application. It makes it a little frustrating for beginners who do not know what temperature is the right one.

Pros
  • Includes two probes, but four more can be connected
  • 200-feet outdoor range
  • Quiet APP that is easy to monitor
  • Reasonably priced
Cons
  • Cables might look funny coming from the grill
  • No preset temperatures

Alpha Grillers Instant Read Meat Thermometer – Best Basic Thermometer

The Alpha Grillers Instant Thermometer is a much more basic thermometer that allows you to see the temperature of your meat instantly.

This standard thermometer is battery operated and works almost like you would imagine a pocket knife working. It only has one food-grade probe that is attached to the unit.

Because of the small size, it is easy to carry the unit in your pocket. All you need to do is take it out, and you are ready to utilize it. This thermometer can be used indoors and outdoors, and it can even be used inside your refrigerator to marinate the meat at the perfect temperature. It is entirely waterproof as well.

With a response time of up to 5-seconds at the maximum, it is worth mentioning that this unit is simple and effective. It might not have any wireless features, but with a button battery, it can last you much longer than those AA batteries do.

According to the manufacturer, it can easily reach up to 392-degrees Fahrenheit for most types of meat.

Since the unit does not have any real advanced features that you need to use, it does not command such a high price. The thermometer comes with a limited lifetime warranty, which does give you some additional peace of mind.

Pros
  • Small and compact
  • Gives you the temperature in up to 5-seconds
  • Versatile for all uses
  • Affordable
  • Limited lifetime warranty
Cons
  • Not ideal for cooking different meats at the same time

Rubbermaid Commercial Steel Instant Read Monitoring Thermometer – Best Indoor Thermometer

With Rubbermaid, you will find a lot of quality products. The Rubbermaid Commercial Steel Instant Read Monitoring Thermometer is one of their top options.

It is made for those cooking at a commercial-grade or when you need something affordable. It can be used in virtually anything from your oven to your toaster to measure the temperature.

The unit has been constructed from commercial grade stainless steel, and it could reach temperatures of up to 572-degrees Fahrenheit. This makes the unit slightly useful for your barbecue.

However, it does not have any probes; it can be tough to find the correct temperature of the meat.
 
As for the price, it is one of the most affordable options on the market today. The unit has been tested for commercial use. It should work in some of your restaurants if you are a restaurateur.

Another great benefit is the fact that it does not need a battery and can be used almost any time. However, we would have loved a backlight added.

Pros
  • Commercial-grade durability
  • No need for batteries
  • Reaches temperatures of up to 572-degrees Fahrenheit
  • Multifunctional
Cons
  • Does not measure the food temperature directly

Govee Bluetooth Meat Thermometer - Budget-Friendly Bluetooth Thermometer

Here we have a cordless digital thermometer from Govee, designed for effortless cooking without constant supervision. It’s one of the budget-friendly models, yet don’t let the price deceive you; it’s a really high-quality product.

This compact thermometer has a 196ft Bluetooth range, so it’s excellent for hot summer days when you can’t sit by the grill continuously. It takes the temperature in only two seconds, being thus one of the fastest and most accurate thermometers on the market. How accurate exactly?

It has a temperature range from the minimal 32℉ to 572℉, and the accuracy is 1.8°F/1°C. In addition, this particular model comes with two stainless steel probes, made for the IPX7 waterproof use, with really high-temperature resistance.

When it comes to the app, there are six preset temperatures for beef, pork, chicken, veal, lamb, fish, and turkey. At the same time, you can set a temperature to your own preference and cook the meat in the way you like it.

The Govee thermometer is even super-convenient for installment. You can either place it to sit, hang it or attach it to any metal surface using the magnetic back, so it won’t be on the way while you’re cooking.

On top of everything, the thermometer comes with two AA batteries, and it’s available with two and four probes. You need to connect the thermometer to your phone, download the app, and set everything in a minute or two.

Pros
  • Affordable
  • Convenient
  • Six preset temperatures
  • Three ways to place it
Cons
  • The Bluetooth range could be better

Yunbaoit Wireless Meat Thermometer - The Best Simple Wide-Range Thermometer

Here we have a bulky orange thermometer from Yunbaoit, with a wide-range Bluetooth signal and a heavy-duty exterior. It’s a mid-range product price-wise, yet really outstanding when it comes to specifications and performance.

The Bluetooth range is 500 feet, with a stable, reliable signal that allows you to read the temperature in only 1-3 seconds.

It comes with two sensitive yet heavy-duty probes coated in different colors so that you can know every second what meat you’re monitoring. In addition, the probes are resistant to heat and waterproof; hence you can wash them in a dishwasher, and if it rains outside, you’re not at risk.

In contrast to other meat thermometers of this kind, Yunbaoit has ten different temperature settings, preset in accordance with the USDA recommendations. There are five levels of doneness, and the second probe has one more mode-the BBQ mode. Besides the preset modes, one PROG mode allows you to set the temperature as you wish and roast the meat to the extent you like.

Additionally, this Yunbaoit thermometer is excellent because of its large LCD backlit display that showcases all the information you need and allows you to follow the cooking process even without the phone. Some people find it more straightforward than using the app on your phone to track the temperature.

Once the meat is done, the beep on the transmitter lets you know, and voila, you’re the official chef of the family.

Pros
  • Wide-range signal
  • Ten preset temperatures
  • Five levels of doneness
  • Two differently colored probes
  • Easy placement
  • No app
Cons
  • /

ThermoPro TP-16 LCD Digital Thermometer - The Best Compact Meat Thermometer

Here we have a ThermoPro thermometer designed to provide the most straightforward operation to everyone with a strong will to cook and a desire to reach perfection. It has a solid Bluetooth signal, wide temperature range, and many cooking modes, as the USDA recommends.

Although this ThermoPro TP-16 thermometer comes with a single probe, it’s incredibly accurate in temperature determination. Actually, it can withstand temperatures up to 716°F (380°C) with 1.8°F/1°C accuracy.

The 40’’ mesh cable with a stainless steel probe is incredibly convenient for long-distance cooking, and given the thermometer’s pocket size, it’s super-easy for placement too.

Another advantage of this model is the large LCD, showing the time, temperature, and activated mode. When the preset temperature is reached, the alarm will let you know, indicating that you should remove the meat from the fire.

As with other similar meat thermometers, and you can even adjust their doneness level. If none of the suggested options is to your preference, feel free to set the temperature and timing manually.

When it comes to the simplicity of the setup, this timer comes with a magnetic back, so you simply attach it to any metal surface and given its small size and a long cable, it won’t be on the way when you need to check the meat.

Pros
  • Compact
  • Easy to use
  • Many modes
  • Magnetic back
  • High accuracy
Cons
  • Durability needs improvement

ThermoPro TP03 Digital Instant Read Meat - The Best Simple Digital Thermometer for Meals

Here we have a simpler and more compact version of a meat thermometer, one digital model from ThermoPro, the ThermoPro TP03 Digital. Just by looking at this item, you probably wouldn’t guess what it is since it resembles a thermometer and a knife at the same time.

The idea behind this digital thermostat’s design is the portability that allows a cook to always have it by their side. Unlike the modernized Bluetooth thermometers, it’s incredibly simple and just as straightforward to use.

Namely, it needs three to five seconds to measure the temperature, and the 3.9 inches food-grade stainless steel probe guarantees ±0.9 degree Fahrenheit accuracy.

When it comes to the temperature range, it can withstand from -58 to 572 degrees Fahrenheit, which is a pretty solid temperature range for a product of this kind.

The use, as I already mentioned, is effortless. Simply fold it out, insert it into the meat; in 3-5 seconds, the temperature will be displayed on the small screen, and if the readout stays for longer than 10 minutes, it automatically erases it.

The ThermoPro TP03 thermometer doesn’t include Bluetooth technology or InfraRed rays, a single AAA battery powers it, and it has three small buttons for settings adjustments.

Although a very small item, this device probably has the most innovative design on the market. It showcases the highest accuracy, which perhaps is why the Guest White House Chef recommends it.

Pros
  • Compact
  • Easy to use
  • High accuracy
  • Pocket-size
Cons
  • No advanced features

MEATER Plus 165ft Long Range Smart - The Best Fully Wireless Meat Thermometer

The Meater Plus is probably the most advertised meat thermometer on the market, so it’s definitely one of Amazon’s favorites. A simple design, combined with innovative Bluetooth technology and high-quality materials, guarantees both durability and performance, so there’s no room for doubts when it comes to this product.

Starting from the elegant bamboo holder, which is also a charger, this Meater Plus thermometer exhibits the effort put into its innovative design. It’s a completely wireless model; hence there is only a probe, without the cable, that you insert into the meat and wait for the temperature assessment.

How do you read the temperature then?

There is the official meter app that has all the necessary settings for temperature assessment and display. At the same time, the probe radiates a strong Bluetooth signal up to 165 meters away; hence you can follow the meal progression from the yard while it’s on the cooker, slowly getting roasted.

Although this Meater Plus model has a single probe, it actually has dual sensors. Therefore it measures the internal meat temperature up to 212°F, while the external temperature is measured up to 527°F.

The application provides a guided step-by-step cooking manual, so even inexperienced cooks can make food like pros.

Due to the estimating algorithm, you get the recommended timing and temperature you should cook the meat at, and all there is left to do is wait.

Pros
  • Simple
  • Innovative
  • Completely wireless
  • Preset algorithms
  • Dual sensors
Cons
  • Only one probe

What You Need to Consider Before Buying the Best BBQ Thermometer

Merely walking into the store or ordering one is not the best way to go with your thermometer. There are a few essential features that also need to be considered.

These features also served as the measurements that we used to find the top thermometers. Here are some of the essential elements.

1. Type

best bbq thermometer gauge

You will need to decide between a wireless thermometer or something that you are using at the grill.

Having a wireless thermometer is much better for when you don’t want to be around the barbecue, especially when smoking meat continually.

However, the standard thermometer is much more compact and can easily be placed in your pocket.


2. Durability

The unit will be faced with hot temperatures and needs to be durable enough to withstand them as best possible. Stainless steel is commonly used after is has been approved as food-grade by the FDA.

However, the wiring can also take a beating. It is essential that you consider the temperature rating and stick to this when cooking.


3. Probes

How many probes you have will all depend on the monitor itself. Some monitors only allow you to have 1 or perhaps two probes connected at any given time. However, you might need a little more when you are cooking for a group of people.

Some of the top BBQ thermometers might only include two probes, but they can additionally handle up to 6. The maximum we found is 6.

best bbq thermometer wireless

4. Connectivity

Another feature to keep in mind is the method by which your monitor will transmit the temperatures. If you are looking to have an extended range, you might need to consider one that works with a frequency.

While Bluetooth might give you the temperature updates much faster, it does not have the same range. When going for Bluetooth, we also recommend looking for Bluetooth 5.0 for the fastest speed capabilities.


5. Receiver Type

If you don’t mind carrying an additional receiver around, it can be easy to find the right temperature without browsing through apps on your mobile device.

However, it might not suit everyone, and having the unit connected to your mobile device seems like the smarter choice. This means that it is Bluetooth connected, but offers you a faster signal transmission.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a BBQ thermometer?

While ordinary people rarely use meat thermometers, they are, in fact, widely used by professional chefs.

It can be very tricky to assume for how long you should grill a fat steak or a thick piece of any meat. Hence meat thermometers come in pretty handy.

Most models come with preset settings for each type of meat, so you don’t have to bother manually adjusting it, and in only a second or two, you get the results with high accuracy.


How do you measure the BBQ temperature?

Best BBQ Thermometer reviews

Meat thermometers are incredibly simple to use. It depends from one model to another how you use them, but what they all have in common is a probe that goes into a piece of meat and a digital or Bluetooth transmitter showing the temperature.

If you’re using a Bluetooth model, you should connect the thermometer with the app on your phone or the LCD, and once the probes measure the temperature, it appears on the screen in a few seconds.


How accurate are BBQ thermometers?

Believe it or not, barbeque thermometers are, in fact, incredibly accurate.

They measure the temperature with a +-1 degree accuracy or even 0.9+-degree accuracy, which is fantastic. Besides being accurate, they are also very fast, so you get the results in only a second or two, again proving how efficient they are.

After all, almost every professional chef in the world has one, which proves the quality and efficiency of this product.


Can you leave thermometers in the meat while it’s cooking?

best bbq thermometer wifi

Basically, only the probe of the thermometer should be put into the heating meat, while the thermometer itself is left on the counter or hung somewhere.


How do you use a wireless thermometer in a smoker?

Using a wireless meat thermometer in a smoker is no different than using it for oven or kitchen cooking.

Simply insert the stainless steel probes into the meat, make sure the probes are connected to the receiver or your phone via Bluetooth, install the app, wait a couple of seconds, and voila. You’ll see the temperature on the screen.

The only detail you should care for is not to place the receiver too close to the source of heat.

Which One Is the Best BBQ Thermometer?

With all of this said, you might have been wondering which one is the overall winner.

If we look at them all together, there is no denying the quality of the ThermoPro brand and the value they offer. We have selected the ThermoPro TP-08S Wireless Remote Digital Thermometer as the the best BBQ thermometer out there, relies on its high accuracy, wide heat range, convenience and ease of use, which set it apart from the competition.

Also, the ThermoPro TP-08S stands out for affordable price.

Sale
ThermoPro TP08 300FT Wireless Meat Thermometer for Grilling Smoker BBQ Grill Oven Thermometer with...*
  • Enhanced 300ft remote range: Thermopro wireless meat thermometer adopts the most advanced wireless technology to provide the strongest, and most reliable connection with a out of range alert, allowing...
  • Dual probe for food and BBQ: Meat thermometer oven safe with highly accurate stainless steel meat probe and oven/ grill/ smoker temperature probe, to allow you to monitor both food and ambient...
  • Food temp & HI/LOW ambient temp alarm: Digital grill thermometer allows you to quickly and easily set your own cooking temperatures for both probes; Set probe 2 as HI/LOW temp range alarm for your...
  • Convenient kitchen timer: Smoking thermometer features countdown & count up timer which can be used simultaneously with the temperature monitoring functions, helps you keep track of your entire meal...
  • High accuracy and wide temperature range: Cook anything perfectly and with ease due to the wide and highly accurate temp range 14˚f to 572˚f; Displays both fahrenheit and celsius readings; Probe...

Conclusion

While many people have the skill to cook meat to the perfect temperature without a thermometer, it is not a skill we all have.

Most of us rely on technology, and the best BBQ thermometer makes it possible to have these perfect meals.

You now have the opportunity to let us know in the comment section which of these you like and if we missed any of your favorites.

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