Our Favorite Instant-Read Thermometers Are Lightning-Fast and Incredibly Accurate

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Every cook needs a good instant-read thermometer. We wouldn't dream of cooking a turkey without one, and it can help you avoid over- or undercooking while you're roasting, deep-frying, paching, grilling, and baking during the rest of the year.

As with all kitchen tools, there’s a wide range of digital thermometers out there. We set out to see which ones were the fastest and most accurate by testing 23 of them. Ultimately, we landed on five favorites—including our longtime top picks from ThermoWorks and Javelin.

The Winners, at a Glance

The ThermoWorks Thermapen ONE is the gold standard for instant-reads. It’s easy to use, delivers lightning-fast readings, and has an auto-rotating screen and backlight. It's also more accurate than any of the other thermometers we tested. Nearly every Serious Eats editor owns this thermometer and highly recommends it.

The Lavatools Javelin Pro has a large digital screen with bright numbers that are easy to see in dark ovens or angled positions. The thermometer gives quick readings and has a magnetic backing, which allows you to easily store it on the side of the fridge. The Javelin Pro is less than half the price of the Thermapen ONE and comes in a variety of colors, too.

The OXO Thermocouple Thermometer has a probe that rotates 225 degrees, making it easy to use if you’re left-handed. Its readings were accurate, and its large, white digits and black screen were highly visible even in a dark oven.

Featuring an auto-rotating screen and backlight, this thermometer responds quickly and is budget-friendly. It also comes with a cap for its probe, which is nice for storage or clipping onto an apron.

This no-frills thermometer gives accurate readings and has a folding probe, making it easy to store. It’s also wallet-friendly at less than $30 (at the time of writing).

The Tests

• Sous Vide Test: We set a water bath to 134°F using a sous vide machine. Then, we tested the water temperature five times at the same place in the bath, recording temperature and response time. 
• Ice Water Test: We filled a large glass with water and ice, stirring and letting it sit until thoroughly chilled. We took the temperature of the water five times with every thermometer, stirring between each try to redistribute the cold water. 
• Boiling Water Test: We brought a pot of water to a rapid boil, and then took the temperature of the water five times.
• Roast Chicken Test: We roasted a chicken and tested the temperature of the breast to see how comfortable the thermometer was to use in a hot oven, as well as how easy it was to read in a low-light environment.
• Usability Test: Throughout the testing, we evaluated how easy and intuitive it was to measure temperatures with each thermometer.

What We Learned

How Fast Were the Instant-Read Thermometers?

Despite the name, instant-read thermometers are not instant. Though our winning thermometer, the ThermoWorks Thermapen ONE, claimed to give an accurate reading in one second or less, our testing showed it often needed two or three seconds. That said, this is still very speedy! Poor performers took anywhere from 10 to 21 seconds to deliver readings

Why is a fast thermometer important? Just opening an oven can drop the interior temperature up to 50°F. The longer you have to wait for a thermometer to register, the more heat the oven will lose. Worse, though, is having to stick your hand into a hot oven or over a stovetop or grill and keep it there to take the temperature. In this way, speediness heavily impacts usability.

Which Instant-Read Thermometers Were the Most Accurate?

Quick readings don’t mean much if a thermometer is inaccurate. We tested each thermometer using a 134°F sous vide water bath, ice water (32°F), and boiling water (212°F). Some thermometers, like the Inkbird, did fine with boiling water but gave inaccurate readings with cold temperatures, registering the ice water at 30 or 31°F. Others, like the Greenpan AccuRead, did the opposite, clocking boiling water at a higher temperature of 217°F.

The fastest thermometer, the Thermapen ONE, was also the most consistent and accurate. Its readings were all spot-on. Other top picks, like the Lavatools Javelin and the OXO Thermocouple, were accurate within one degree every time, too.

The Thermometers’ Screens Impacted Usability

Small or dimly lit, low-contrast screens made for nearly useless thermometers. For example, we couldn’t read the All-Clad Instant Read Digital Thermometer—and trust us, our eyesight is fine. The best thermometers had larger screens, high-contrast digits, and backlights, plus they auto-rotated so you could read the thermometer from any direction.

Fold-Out vs. Stationary Probe Thermometers

In general, fold-out probes were more user-friendly. They had larger screens and bigger, grippier bodies. The movable probe adds versatility, allowing you to position it at whatever angle you need. Once the probes are folded in, these thermometers are compact and easy to store, too. 

However, we still think some stationary probe thermometers are worthwhile. For example, the ThermoWorks ThermoPop 2 is a phenomenal thermometer (especially for the price).

What to Use an Instant-Read Thermometer For

Our Favorite Instant-Read Thermometers: Comparative Specs
	Thermapen One	OXO Thermocouple	Lavatools Javelin Pro
Reported Response Time	1-second	2 to 3 seconds	2 to 3 seconds
Actual Response Time (According to Our Tests)	2 to 3 seconds	3 to 4 seconds	3 to 5 seconds
Reported Accuracy	±0.5°F (±0.3°C) from -4 to 248°F (-20 to 120°C)	+/- 0.5°F (+/- 0.3°C) from -4° to 248°F (-20 to 120°C)	+/- 0.9°F (+/- 0.5°C) from -22 to 302°F (-30 to 150°C)
Reported Resolution	Factory set to 1-degree, user reconfiguration to 0.1-degree)	Factory set to 1-degree, user reconfiguration to 0.1-degree)	0.1-degree
Probe Length	4.3 inches	4.2 inches	4.5 inches
Backlight	Yes	No (unnecessary because of reverse light display)	Yes
Rotating Display	Yes	Yes	Yes

A brief—but surely non-comprehensive—list: 

• Checking the temperature of meat during roasting, searing, smoking, or grilling
• Cooking fish
• Checking poaching liquid temperatures (to, say, avoid rubbery shrimp)
• Making sure oil is at the right temperature for deep-frying
• Making caramel sauce
• Checking if an ice cream base is properly chilled
• Making sure flan is properly set
• Checking to see if cheesecake is baked through
• Making sure no-knead bread is properly baked and not gummy on the inside
• Checking if microwaved leftovers are evenly warmed

The Criteria: What to Look for in an Instant-Read Thermometer

Most of the thermometers we tested were fairly accurate, typically only off by two or three degrees. This is something most folks can probably live with (and would rarely make a difference in the final dish), like a clock that's accidentally set a few minutes fast or slow. However, if you can have something completely accurate, why wouldn’t you? That’s why our top picks were only ever off by a degree. They also delivered fast readings, were comfortable to hold, had an easy-to-read screen with large numbers, and had extra features like auto-on and an automatic backlight.

Our Favorite Instant-Read Thermometers

What we liked: The Thermapen ONE was the fastest thermometer we tested, delivering readings in just a couple of seconds. The rotating probe and auto-rotating screen allow you to angle the thermometer however you want and still be able to easily read the temperature. The screen rotates 90 and 270 degrees, whereas most thermometers only rotate 180 degrees (if at all). 

The ONE automatically lights up in dark environments, such as the interior of an oven or when grilling at night. The perimeter of the thermometer has a gray, non-slip strip that makes it easy to hold, even if your hands are wet or greasy. The ONE also automatically turns on when you rotate the probe, which means no fumbling with a power button. Its waterproof rating is IP67, the highest rating of the thermometers we tested, making it easy to clean and giving you added security should a kitchen accident occur.

What we didn’t like: Its numbers aren’t quite as large as the Javelin Pro's, nor are they as sharp and high-contrast as the OXO Thermocouple Thermometer's.

Key Specs 

• Features: Backlight display, rotating screen, rubber non-slip grip edge
• Accuracy: +/- 0.5°F (+/- 0.3°C) from -4° to 248°F (-20° to 120°C)
• Probe length: 4.3 inches
• Measurement range: -58°F to 572°F
• Waterproof: IP67
• Battery life: 2000 hours
• Warranty: 5 years
• Dimensions: 6.1 x 1.7 x 0.74 inches
  

What we liked: At less than half the price of the Thermapen ONE, the Lavatools Javelin Pro is an excellent deal. It has a large, sharp screen with dark, contrasting digits that are clear and easy to read. Its backlight is brighter than the ONE’s, with the screen automatically flipping 180 degrees when turned upside down. The Javelin Pro is slower than the ONE, though, taking four to five seconds to deliver its readings.  

The Javelin Pro has a few features our other winners don’t have, including a“hold” button that allows you to stop the temperature reading when you put your finger over the starburst-shaped sensor, so you can bring the thermometer closer to you to read it if need be. (Just keep in mind this stops the temperature at where it is, not necessarily at the thermometer’s final reading.) It also has a magnetic backing, making it convenient to stick on the side of your microwave or fridge.

What we didn’t like: The screen only rotates 180 degrees, which means you have to turn your head to read it if you’re holding the thermometer vertically. The Javelin Pro’s temperature maxes out at 482°F, while the Thermapen ONE and OXO both go up to 572°F. Rated at a water-resistant IP65, you can quickly rinse it with water but not immerse it. 

Key Specs 

• Features: Backlight display, rotating screen, magnetic backing, storage hole, hold feature
• Accuracy: +/- 0.9°F (+/- 0.5°C) from -22° to 302°F (-30° to 150°C)
  Probe length: 4.5 inches
• Measurement range: -40°F to 482°F
• Waterproof: IP65
• Battery life: 4000+ hours
• Warranty: Limited 3 years
• Dimensions: 6.25 x 1.75 x 0.8 Inches
  

What we liked: The OXO Good Grips thermometer probe rotates 225 degrees, making it easier and more natural to hold in the left hand. Its speed and accuracy also delivered. The OXO was on par with the Javelin Pro, producing readings in four to five seconds. Its white digits and black screen were easy to read at any angle. When you hold the thermometer upside down, the screen flips 180 degrees, and it automatically turns off once you fold the probe back into the body.

What we didn’t like: The hard, slick plastic housing was slippery to hold. Like the Javelin Pro, the screen only rotates 180 degrees if the thermometer is upside down.

Key Specs 

• Features: Reverse white digit black screen, 225-degree pull-out probe, rotating screen
• Accuracy: +/- 0.9°F (+/- 0.5°C) from -22° to 302°F (-30° to 150°C)
• Probe length: 4.2 inches
• Measurement range: -58°F to 572°F
• Waterproof: IP66
• Battery life: NA
• Warranty: 2 years
• Dimensions: 8.75 x 3.45 x 1.6 inches
  

What we liked: This lollipop-shaped thermometer has a button on the back that turns it on and off. It also features an auto-rotating screen that flips 90, 180, and 270 degrees. The backlit screen is easy to read, with numbers slightly smaller but sharper and darker than its pricier sibling. 

The ThermoPop’s accuracy and speed were similar to the Javelin Pro and OXO. The stationary-style thermometer also makes it suitable for both left and right-handed folk. Once you turn the ThermoPop on, it stays on for 10 minutes. It also comes with a clipped cap to protect the probe and attach it to your apron or shirt.

What we didn’t like: Its power button was rigid, making it harder to turn on and off. The button’s location in the back is less intuitive than one on the front (where the original ThermoPop thermometer had it). 

Key Specs 

• Features: Backlight display, rotating screen, auto shut-off after 10 minutes, probe sheath
• Accuracy: ±1.0°F (±0.5°C) from 14 to 208°F (–10 to 98°C)
• Probe length: 4.5 inches
• Measurement range: -58 to 572°F
• Waterproof: IP67
• Battery life: 4000 hours
• Warranty: 2 years
• Dimensions: 7 x 1.8 x 0.7 inches 
  

What we liked: If you’re on a budget, consider this thermometer. Its small, pull-out probe is only 4.5 inches long. It also has a magnetic backing, which means you can also stick it on the side of your microwave or fridge.

This thermometer has no backlight and its screen is smaller than our other winners, but its sharp, dark numbers are easy to read. It was also accurate and is the cheapest thermometer we recommend. 

What we didn’t like: The thermometer lacks a few features. The screen is slightly small, doesn’t have a backlight, and doesn’t rotate. And because of the compact nature of this thermometer, the probe itself is fairly short, making it more challenging to take a reading.

Key Specs 

• Features: Fold-out probe; magnetic back
• Accuracy: ±0.9°F (±0.5°C) from -4 to 302°F (-20 to 150°C) 
• Probe length: 2.87 inches 
• Measurement range: -40 to 482°F (-40 to 250°C) 
• Waterproof: IP65
• Battery life: 4000+ hours
• Warranty: 3 years
• Dimensions: 4.5 x 2.8 x 1.5 inches

The Competition 

• Taylor Precision Products Thermocouple Thermometer: Slightly confusing to use with multiple buttons and functions (including an infrared sensor), this thermometer was expensive, slow to give readings, and had a small screen.
• Alpha Grillers Instant Read Meat Thermometer: This thermometer was fairly quick, very reasonably priced, and had a lifetime warranty, but gave inaccurate, higher temperature readings.
• ThermoPro TP03 Digital Instant Read Meat Thermometer: This thermometer registered slowly, had a small screen, and was made of cheap plastic.
• Weber Instant Read Meat Thermometer: Though fairly accurate, this thermometer was slow to give readings, awkward to hold, and difficult to read, with no backlight.
• OXO Good Grips Chef's Precision Digital Instant Read Thermometer: This instant-read thermometer was slow and awkward to hold.
• Precision Pro Commercial Thermometer: The Precision Pro was also sluggish and one of the more inaccurate models.
• All-Clad Instant Read Digital Thermometer: The All-Clad digital thermometer had a tiny screen that was difficult to read, and the thin metal body was hard to hold.
• Cuisinart CSG-200 Infrared and Folding, Infrared & Folding Grilling Thermometer: While fairly accurate and quick to respond, this model was more expensive than our other budget-friendly options.
• KIZEN Digital Meat Thermometer with Probe: Half the price of our budget picks, this thermometer also felt cheaply made.
• Cuisinart CSG-466 Digital Folding Probe Thermometer: Slow and inaccurate, this thermometer performed poorly across the board. It's also currently unavailable.
• Venigo Digital Meat and Food Thermometer: Initially very responsive, this thermometer was at least one degree off on every reading. It's also no longer available.
• ThermoMaven F1 HT02: Though this thermometer was reasonably priced and quick, the readings were off.
• ThermoMaven F1 Stealth: Like the F1 model, this thermometer had a lot of features for a reasonable price, but it also delivered high and inconsistent readings.
• GreenPan AccuRead Digital Kitchen Thermometer: This digital thermometer was the only one that had a rotating probe that went a full 270 degrees, making it ideal for left-handed folks. Sadly, it was not accurate, registering temperatures at least two degrees off.
• InkBird Instant Read Meat Thermometer: This budget-priced digital thermometer was a bit slow and gave inaccurate readings.
• ThermoPro Lightning 1- Second: This rugged-looking digital thermometer had non-slip sides that made it easy to hold, but it wasn’t accurate in cold temperatures. 
• Maverick PT-55 Waterproof Digital Instant Read Meat Thermometer: This option performed solidly, but our top picks were faster and more accurate. It's no longer listed on Amazon.
• Taylor Precision Products Instant Read Digital Thermometer: This thermometer was the slowest of all the models we tested, taking nearly 20 seconds to come to a final reading. It seems to no longer be available.

FAQs 

How does the Thermoworks Thermapen ONE compare to the Mk4? 

At first glance, the Thermapen ONE looks almost identical to the Mk4, which was our longtime recommendation before it was discontinued. The main physical difference is that the old Mk4 had a gray rubber strip on the end of the thermometer, which allowed for a waterproof seal where the battery compartment was.

The Thermapen ONE moved the battery compartment to the back of the body, making that gray strip unnecessary. This results in a cleaner design. Beyond the superficial aesthetics, the Thermapen ONE has a brighter screen that lights up a neutral white, compared to the Mk4's warm, dim, yellow light. This brighter light is higher contrast, making the temperature easier to read. 

But the biggest change is the speed. The Thermapen ONE claims to give accurate temperatures in one second. In practice, we found it took a little longer, but it was indeed faster than the Mk4.

Can you recalibrate an instant-read thermometer? 

Unlike analog dial thermometers that can often be recalibrated with a simple pair of pliers, recalibrating an instant-read thermometer is more involved. A few instant-read thermometers, like the Thermapen ONE and Lavatools Javelin Pro, will give you the option to change the internal temperature reading up and down to match known temperatures (like boiling water or ice water). But this requires you to open up the battery compartment and manually adjust things.

Other instant-read thermometers, such as the OXO Thermocouple, don’t have this option and require you to send the thermometer back to the company to get it fixed. If your thermometer is in need of recalibration, check your product operation manual to see if there are instructions on recalibrating your thermometer. If not, check your warranty to see if repairs are covered, or contact customer service to ask how to return the thermometer for recalibration and repair.

Do I need an instant-read thermometer? 

While our winning pick from Thermoworks isn't cheap, we really do recommend investing in an instant-read thermometer. Why? Because it takes the guesswork out of cooking foods safely, specifically meat. No one wants to bite into a raw piece of chicken. A reliable instant-read thermometer also opens up whole new worlds when it comes to smoking and barbecuing, and it can even come in handy when baking. If you're not convinced, check out this article for an even more persuasive argument.

What is the best way to clean an instant-read thermometer? 

Thermoworks sells sanitizing wipes you can use to clean down your thermometer's probe. Alternatively, you can use a food-safe sanitizing solution on the probe, or stick the probe in a pot of boiling water—both of these options will kill any lingering bacteria. As far as the thermometer face, we recommend wiping it down with a sanitizing wipe or a damp towel.

That said, some instant-read thermometers are water-resistant. Our winning thermometer, the ThermoWorks Thermapen ONE, is rated IP67 waterproof. Though you shouldn’t run it through the dishwasher, a quick wash under the faucet is fine, as long as you don’t rotate the hub under the water, which might introduce moisture into the housing.

How do you use an instant-read thermometer? 

To use an instant-read thermometer, pull out (or uncap) the probe. Many thermometers will turn on automatically, but others have an on/off button that must be pressed. Insert the tip of the probe into what you're taking the temperature of, then wait a few seconds for the reading to register and stabilize.

Can you use an instant-read thermometer for making candy? 

You can use an instant-read thermometer to take the temperature of the candy. However, a probe thermometer (like the ChefAlarm) is easier for this task, as it has a clip that attaches the probe to the side of a pot and a display that continually registers the temperature.

How do you use a meat thermometer?

Instant-read thermometers are the best tools for measuring the internal temperatures of meat while you're cooking. To get an accurate reading, stick the probe into the thickest part of the meat, aiming to get the first half-inch or so of the probe positioned in the coolest part (i.e., the center). If you're temping a thin cut of meat, like a pork chop, for example, stick the probe into the side of the cut rather than through the top. For a more detailed description (and demonstration), check out this guide.

Why We're the Experts 

• Irvin Lin is a cookbook author and contributing writer for Serious Eats. He's also an IACP-award-winning photographer and is currently on the James Beard Book Awards Subcommittee. He uses an instant-read thermometer daily.
• Riddley Gemperlein-Schirm is the associate editorial director at Serious Eats. She's worked for the site since 2021 and has reviewed equipment professionally for more than six years.
• For this review, Irvin and Riddley tested 23 instant-read thermometers. We've continued to test new models as they've come out, too.
• The Serious Eats staff constantly uses instant-read thermometers in our test kitchen and at home. In fact, nearly all of our editors own our favorite one. Since this review was published, we've continued to use our winners (particularly the Thermapen ONE and ThermoPop 2), gathering long-term feedback on them. After a few years, they both still work great.