Guide to selecting meat thermometers ideal for BBQ cooking

Grilling season is here, and that means firing up the barbecue and whipping up delicious meals for family and friends. But with all the excitement, it’s easy to forget about the most important ingredient for a perfect grill: a trusty meat thermometer. A good thermometer ensures your food is cooked to the right temperature, guaranteeing juicy, flavorful results and preventing any foodborne illnesses.

Read more about this on 15 Best Wireless Meat Thermometer for Grilling

Choosing the right meat thermometer can feel overwhelming with the plethora of options available. From instant-read thermometers to wireless probes, there’s a device for every grilling style and budget. To help you navigate this culinary landscape, we’ve compiled a list of the 16 best meat thermometers for BBQ and outdoor grilling.

Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or a beginner looking for reliable guidance, this guide covers it all. We’ve considered factors like accuracy, ease of use, durability, and additional features to ensure each thermometer is top-notch. Whether you’re grilling steaks, burgers, chicken, or fish, we’ve got you covered.

So grab your tongs, fire up the grill, and let’s explore the best meat thermometers to elevate your grilling game. Get ready to impress your guests and enjoy the perfect barbecue experience, every time.

QUICKLIST
Item	Image	Where to buy	Rating	Read More
ThermoWorks Thermapen MK4			N/A	Jump to Review
Govee Meat Thermometer			N/A	Jump to Review
iGrill Mini 2			N/A	Jump to Review
Inkbird Bluetooth Meat Thermometer			N/A	Jump to Review
MEATER Plus Smart Meat Thermometer			N/A	Jump to Review
Lavatools Javelin Pro			N/A	Jump to Review
Taylor Precision Products Digital Cooking Thermometer			4.5 out of 5 stars	Jump to Review
Weber iGrill 3			N/A	Jump to Review
ThermoPro TP-19			N/A	Jump to Review
CDN ProAccurate Digital Thermometer			N/A	Jump to Review
Maverick ET-732			N/A	Jump to Review
ThermoPro TP-20			N/A	Jump to Review
Polder Digital Meat Thermometer			N/A	Jump to Review
ThermoWorks DOT			N/A	Jump to Review
Waring Commercial WM100 Digital Thermometer			N/A	Jump to Review
Cuisinart CTK-40 Digital Cooking Thermometer			N/A	Jump to Review

Table of Contents

ThermoWorks Thermapen MK4

A fast and accurate instant-read thermometer perfect for checking the temperature of food while grilling. It features a large, easy-to-read LCD display and a waterproof design.

Specifications :

Accuracy: +/- 0.5 degrees Fahrenheit
Reading time: 2-3 seconds
Range: 32-572 degrees Fahrenheit
Features: Waterproof, auto-ranging, backlit display

Reasons to buy :

Extremely fast and accurate readings
Easy to use and read
Waterproof and durable

Reasons to avoid :

Relatively expensive
Can be bulky for some users

What you need to know :

The Thermapen MK4 is a popular choice for serious grillers and cooks.
It's known for its speed, accuracy, and durability.
It's a bit pricey, but it's worth the investment if you're looking for the best possible instant-read thermometer.

Buy it if:

You need an instant-read thermometer that is both fast and accurate.
You are willing to pay a premium for quality.

Don't buy it if:

You are on a tight budget.
You only need a basic thermometer for occasional use.

Bottom Line:

The ThermoWorks Thermapen MK4 is an excellent choice for anyone who needs a fast and accurate instant-read thermometer. It's easy to use, durable, and delivers consistently accurate readings. While it is more expensive than some other options on the market, the quality and features make it worth the investment for serious grillers and cooks. If you're looking for the best instant-read thermometer available, the Thermapen MK4 is a great option.

Govee Meat Thermometer

A budget-friendly wireless meat thermometer with a clear LCD display and easy-to-use app. It has a long range and is perfect for monitoring the temperature of your meat while grilling or smoking.

Specifications :

Accuracy: +/- 2 degrees Fahrenheit
Range: 32-572 degrees Fahrenheit
Wireless range: Up to 150 feet
Features: Bluetooth connectivity, app control, alarm notifications

Reasons to buy :

Affordable price
Easy to use with app
Long wireless range
Alarm notifications to alert you when your meat is done

Reasons to avoid :

Not as accurate as some other options
App can be buggy at times

What you need to know :

The Govee Meat Thermometer is a good option for those who want a wireless thermometer at an affordable price.
It's easy to use and provides reliable readings, but it's not as accurate as some of the more expensive options on the market.
The app can be buggy at times, but it does offer helpful features like alarm notifications and preset temperatures.

Buy it if:

You are looking for an affordable wireless meat thermometer.
You need a thermometer with a long wireless range.

Don't buy it if:

You need a very accurate thermometer.
You want a thermometer with a more reliable app.

Bottom Line:

The Govee Meat Thermometer is a budget-friendly option that provides a good balance of features and affordability. It's easy to use, has a long wireless range, and is generally accurate enough for most grilling needs. However, if you're looking for the most accurate readings possible or a thermometer with a more polished app, you might want to consider another option.

iGrill Mini 2

A small and portable wireless meat thermometer that is perfect for grilling, smoking, or even baking. It features a bright LED display and a long battery life.

Specifications :

Accuracy: +/- 2 degrees Fahrenheit
Range: 32-572 degrees Fahrenheit
Wireless range: Up to 150 feet
Features: Bluetooth connectivity, app control, alarm notifications

Reasons to buy :

Compact and portable
Easy to use with app
Long battery life
Alarm notifications to alert you when your meat is done

Reasons to avoid :

Not as accurate as some other options
App can be buggy at times

What you need to know :

The iGrill Mini 2 is a great option for those who want a portable wireless thermometer.
It's small and lightweight, making it easy to carry around.
It's also easy to use with the app, which provides helpful features like alarm notifications and preset temperatures.

Buy it if:

You need a small and portable wireless thermometer.
You want a thermometer with a long battery life.

Don't buy it if:

You need a very accurate thermometer.
You want a thermometer with a more reliable app.

Bottom Line:

The iGrill Mini 2 is a great option for those who want a small and portable wireless thermometer. It's easy to use, has a long battery life, and is generally accurate enough for most grilling needs. However, if you're looking for the most accurate readings possible or a thermometer with a more polished app, you might want to consider another option.

Inkbird Bluetooth Meat Thermometer

A popular and affordable wireless meat thermometer with a large LCD display and a long wireless range. It's perfect for monitoring the temperature of your meat while grilling or smoking.

Specifications :

Accuracy: +/- 2 degrees Fahrenheit
Range: 32-572 degrees Fahrenheit
Wireless range: Up to 150 feet
Features: Bluetooth connectivity, app control, alarm notifications

Reasons to buy :

Affordable price
Easy to use with app
Long wireless range
Alarm notifications to alert you when your meat is done

Reasons to avoid :

Not as accurate as some other options
App can be buggy at times

What you need to know :

The Inkbird Bluetooth Meat Thermometer is a great option for those who want a wireless thermometer at an affordable price.
It's easy to use and provides reliable readings, but it's not as accurate as some of the more expensive options on the market.
The app can be buggy at times, but it does offer helpful features like alarm notifications and preset temperatures.

Buy it if:

You are looking for an affordable wireless meat thermometer.
You need a thermometer with a long wireless range.

Don't buy it if:

You need a very accurate thermometer.
You want a thermometer with a more reliable app.

Bottom Line:

The Inkbird Bluetooth Meat Thermometer is a good option for those who want a wireless thermometer at an affordable price. It's easy to use, has a long wireless range, and is generally accurate enough for most grilling needs. However, if you're looking for the most accurate readings possible or a thermometer with a more polished app, you might want to consider another option.

MEATER Plus Smart Meat Thermometer

A high-tech wireless meat thermometer with a built-in probe and a long range. It features a smartphone app that provides real-time temperature readings, alerts you when your meat is done, and even gives you cooking tips.

Specifications :

Accuracy: +/- 1.5 degrees Fahrenheit
Range: 32-572 degrees Fahrenheit
Wireless range: Up to 150 feet
Features: Bluetooth and WiFi connectivity, app control, alarm notifications, cooking tips

Reasons to buy :

Accurate readings
Easy to use app with helpful features
Long wireless range
Can be used for both grilling and smoking

Reasons to avoid :

Relatively expensive
Can be bulky for some users

What you need to know :

The MEATER Plus Smart Meat Thermometer is a great option for those who want a high-tech wireless thermometer.
It's easy to use, provides accurate readings, and has a long wireless range.
The app is also very helpful, providing real-time temperature readings, alerts, and even cooking tips.

Buy it if:

You are looking for a high-tech wireless meat thermometer.
You want a thermometer with a lot of features.

Don't buy it if:

You are on a tight budget.
You only need a basic thermometer for occasional use.

Bottom Line:

The MEATER Plus Smart Meat Thermometer is a great choice for anyone who wants a high-tech and versatile wireless thermometer. It's easy to use, provides accurate readings, and offers a wide range of features, including a comprehensive app with real-time temperature monitoring, alerts, and cooking tips. However, it's also one of the more expensive thermometers on the market, so it might not be the best choice for everyone. If you're looking for a top-of-the-line wireless thermometer that delivers advanced features and accurate readings, the MEATER Plus Smart Meat Thermometer is a great option.

Lavatools Javelin PRO

A fast and accurate instant-read thermometer with a sharp, pointed tip that makes it easy to penetrate thick cuts of meat. It features a large, backlit LCD display and a waterproof design.

Specifications :

Accuracy: +/- 0.5 degrees Fahrenheit
Reading time: 2-3 seconds
Range: 32-572 degrees Fahrenheit
Features: Waterproof, auto-ranging, backlit display

Reasons to buy :

Extremely fast and accurate readings
Easy to use and read
Waterproof and durable
Sharp tip makes it easy to penetrate thick cuts of meat

Reasons to avoid :

Relatively expensive
Can be bulky for some users

What you need to know :

The Lavatools Javelin PRO is a great option for those who need a fast and accurate instant-read thermometer.
It's easy to use, durable, and delivers consistently accurate readings.
It's also great for penetrating thick cuts of meat, thanks to its sharp tip.

Buy it if:

You need an instant-read thermometer that is both fast and accurate.
You are willing to pay a premium for quality.
You need a thermometer that can easily penetrate thick cuts of meat.

Don't buy it if:

You are on a tight budget.
You only need a basic thermometer for occasional use.

Bottom Line:

The Lavatools Javelin PRO is a great option for anyone who needs a fast and accurate instant-read thermometer. It's easy to use, durable, and delivers consistently accurate readings. The sharp tip makes it easy to penetrate thick cuts of meat, making it a great choice for grilling steaks, roasts, and other large cuts of meat. While it is more expensive than some other options on the market, the quality and features make it worth the investment for serious grillers and cooks. If you're looking for the best instant-read thermometer available, the Lavatools Javelin PRO is a great option.

Taylor Precision Products Digital Cooking Thermometer

Learn more about 15 Best Meat Thermometers of 2024 for Precision Cooking

A basic and affordable digital cooking thermometer that is perfect for checking the temperature of food while grilling, baking, or cooking. It features a large LCD display and a clear reading window.

Specifications :

Accuracy: +/- 2 degrees Fahrenheit
Range: 32-572 degrees Fahrenheit
Features: Auto-ranging, backlit display

Reasons to buy :

Affordable price
Easy to use and read
Large display

Reasons to avoid :

Not as accurate as some other options
No wireless connectivity

What you need to know :

The Taylor Precision Products Digital Cooking Thermometer is a good option for those who need a basic and affordable digital thermometer.
It's easy to use and provides reliable readings, but it's not as accurate as some of the more expensive options on the market.
It also lacks wireless connectivity, so you'll need to be near the grill or oven to check the temperature.

Buy it if:

You are looking for an affordable digital thermometer.
You only need a basic thermometer for occasional use.

Don't buy it if:

You need a very accurate thermometer.
You want a wireless thermometer.

Bottom Line:

The Taylor Precision Products Digital Cooking Thermometer is a good option for those who need a basic and affordable digital thermometer. It's easy to use, provides reliable readings, and has a large display that makes it easy to read. However, if you're looking for the most accurate readings possible or a thermometer with wireless connectivity, you might want to consider another option.

Weber iGrill 3

A popular wireless meat thermometer with a large LCD display and a long wireless range. It's perfect for monitoring the temperature of your meat while grilling or smoking.

Specifications :

Accuracy: +/- 2 degrees Fahrenheit
Range: 32-572 degrees Fahrenheit
Wireless range: Up to 150 feet
Features: Bluetooth connectivity, app control, alarm notifications

Reasons to buy :

Affordable price
Easy to use with app
Long wireless range
Alarm notifications to alert you when your meat is done

Reasons to avoid :

Not as accurate as some other options
App can be buggy at times

What you need to know :

The Weber iGrill 3 is a great option for those who want a wireless thermometer at an affordable price.
It's easy to use and provides reliable readings, but it's not as accurate as some of the more expensive options on the market.
The app can be buggy at times, but it does offer helpful features like alarm notifications and preset temperatures.

Buy it if:

You are looking for an affordable wireless meat thermometer.
You need a thermometer with a long wireless range.

Don't buy it if:

You need a very accurate thermometer.
You want a thermometer with a more reliable app.

Bottom Line:

The Weber iGrill 3 is a good option for those who want a wireless thermometer at an affordable price. It's easy to use, has a long wireless range, and is generally accurate enough for most grilling needs. However, if you're looking for the most accurate readings possible or a thermometer with a more polished app, you might want to consider another option.

ThermoPro TP-19

You can find more information on 14 Best Leave-In Meat Thermometers for Continuous Monitoring

A budget-friendly wireless meat thermometer with a clear LCD display and easy-to-use app. It has a long range and is perfect for monitoring the temperature of your meat while grilling or smoking.

Specifications :

Accuracy: +/- 2 degrees Fahrenheit
Range: 32-572 degrees Fahrenheit
Wireless range: Up to 150 feet
Features: Bluetooth connectivity, app control, alarm notifications

Reasons to buy :

Affordable price
Easy to use with app
Long wireless range
Alarm notifications to alert you when your meat is done

Reasons to avoid :

Not as accurate as some other options
App can be buggy at times

What you need to know :

The ThermoPro TP-19 is a good option for those who want a wireless thermometer at an affordable price.
It's easy to use and provides reliable readings, but it's not as accurate as some of the more expensive options on the market.
The app can be buggy at times, but it does offer helpful features like alarm notifications and preset temperatures.

Buy it if:

You are looking for an affordable wireless meat thermometer.
You need a thermometer with a long wireless range.

Don't buy it if:

You need a very accurate thermometer.
You want a thermometer with a more reliable app.

Bottom Line:

The ThermoPro TP-19 is a budget-friendly option that provides a good balance of features and affordability. It's easy to use, has a long wireless range, and is generally accurate enough for most grilling needs. However, if you're looking for the most accurate readings possible or a thermometer with a more polished app, you might want to consider another option.

CDN ProAccurate Digital Thermometer

A basic and affordable digital thermometer that is perfect for checking the temperature of food while grilling, baking, or cooking. It features a large LCD display and a clear reading window.

Specifications :

Accuracy: +/- 2 degrees Fahrenheit
Range: 32-572 degrees Fahrenheit
Features: Auto-ranging, backlit display

Reasons to buy :

Affordable price
Easy to use and read
Large display

Reasons to avoid :

Not as accurate as some other options
No wireless connectivity

What you need to know :

The CDN ProAccurate Digital Thermometer is a good option for those who need a basic and affordable digital thermometer.
It's easy to use and provides reliable readings, but it's not as accurate as some of the more expensive options on the market.
It also lacks wireless connectivity, so you'll need to be near the grill or oven to check the temperature.

Buy it if:

You are looking for an affordable digital thermometer.
You only need a basic thermometer for occasional use.

Don't buy it if:

You need a very accurate thermometer.
You want a wireless thermometer.

Bottom Line:

The CDN ProAccurate Digital Thermometer is a good option for those who need a basic and affordable digital thermometer. It's easy to use, provides reliable readings, and has a large display that makes it easy to read. However, if you're looking for the most accurate readings possible or a thermometer with wireless connectivity, you might want to consider another option.

Find more on 22 Best Meat Thermometers for Smokers in 2024

Maverick ET-732

A wireless meat thermometer with a range of up to 300 feet, perfect for keeping an eye on your food from afar.

Specifications :

Wireless range up to 300 feet
Dual probes
Timer function
Backlight display

Reasons to buy :

Long wireless range
Easy-to-use interface
Accurate readings

Reasons to avoid :

Can be bulky
Battery life is not great

What you need to know :

Buy it if:

You want to monitor your food from a distance
You need a thermometer with multiple probes
You appreciate the added features like the timer

Don't buy it if:

You need a thermometer that is small and portable
You are on a tight budget

Bottom Line:

The Maverick ET-732 is a great option for those who want a wireless thermometer with a long range. It's easy to use and provides accurate readings. However, it can be bulky and the battery life is not great. If you're looking for a more portable and affordable option, you might want to consider other models.

ThermoPro TP-20

A popular choice among grillers, the ThermoPro TP-20 is a budget-friendly and accurate digital meat thermometer.

Specifications :

Single probe
Backlight display
Fast response time

Reasons to buy :

Affordable price
Accurate readings
Easy to use

Reasons to avoid :

Limited features
Not waterproof

What you need to know :

Buy it if:

You're on a budget
You need a simple and accurate thermometer
You want a thermometer that is easy to clean

Don't buy it if:

You need a thermometer with multiple probes
You want a thermometer with advanced features
You need a thermometer that is waterproof

Bottom Line:

The ThermoPro TP-20 is a solid choice for budget-minded grillers who are looking for a reliable and accurate thermometer. It's easy to use and provides accurate readings. However, it lacks some of the features found in more expensive models, such as multiple probes and waterproof design. If you're on a budget and don't need a lot of bells and whistles, the TP-20 is a great option.

Polder Digital Meat Thermometer

A sleek and stylish digital meat thermometer with a large LCD display, perfect for those who value aesthetics.

Specifications :

Single probe
Large LCD display
Timer function

Reasons to buy :

Stylish design
Easy-to-read display
Accurate readings

Reasons to avoid :

Not waterproof
Probe can be fragile

What you need to know :

Buy it if:

You want a thermometer with a stylish design
You appreciate a large and clear display
You want a thermometer with a timer function

Don't buy it if:

You need a thermometer that is waterproof
You need a thermometer with multiple probes
You're on a tight budget

Bottom Line:

The Polder Digital Meat Thermometer is a great choice for those who value style and functionality. It has a sleek design, a large LCD display, and accurate readings. However, it's not waterproof and the probe can be fragile. If you're looking for a durable and waterproof thermometer, you might want to consider other models.

Thermoworks DOT

A compact and durable meat thermometer that is perfect for grilling on the go.

Specifications :

Single probe
Water-resistant
Magnetic back

Reasons to buy :

Small and portable
Durable construction
Accurate readings

Reasons to avoid :

Limited features
Can be difficult to read in bright sunlight

What you need to know :

Buy it if:

You need a small and portable thermometer
You want a thermometer that is durable
You want a thermometer with a magnetic back

Don't buy it if:

You need a thermometer with multiple probes
You want a thermometer with advanced features
You need a thermometer that is easy to read in bright sunlight

Bottom Line:

The Thermoworks DOT is a great option for those who are looking for a small, durable, and accurate thermometer. It's perfect for grilling on the go or for those who need a thermometer that can withstand the elements. However, it lacks some of the features found in more expensive models, such as multiple probes and a backlight. If you need a thermometer with advanced features, you might want to consider other models.

Waring Commercial WM100 Digital Thermometer

A professional-grade meat thermometer designed for high-volume use, perfect for restaurants and caterers.

Specifications :

Single probe
Waterproof
Fast response time

Reasons to buy :

Durable construction
Accurate readings
Fast response time

Reasons to avoid :

Expensive
Not ideal for home use

What you need to know :

Buy it if:

You need a thermometer that is built for high-volume use
You need a thermometer that is waterproof
You want a thermometer with a fast response time

Don't buy it if:

You're on a budget
You don't need a thermometer that is built for professional use

Bottom Line:

The Waring Commercial WM100 Digital Thermometer is a high-quality thermometer that is perfect for restaurants and caterers. It's durable, accurate, and has a fast response time. However, it's expensive and not ideal for home use. If you're looking for a thermometer for home use, you might want to consider other models.

Cuisinart CTK-40 Digital Cooking Thermometer

A versatile meat thermometer that can be used for both grilling and cooking, perfect for those who want a multi-purpose tool.

Specifications :

Single probe
Timer function
Backlight display

Reasons to buy :

Versatile design
Easy-to-use interface
Accurate readings

Reasons to avoid :

Not waterproof
Probe can be fragile

What you need to know :

Buy it if:

You need a thermometer that can be used for both grilling and cooking
You want a thermometer with a timer function
You appreciate the backlight display

Don't buy it if:

You need a thermometer that is waterproof
You need a thermometer with multiple probes
You're on a tight budget

Bottom Line:

The Cuisinart CTK-40 Digital Cooking Thermometer is a versatile and user-friendly thermometer that is perfect for both grilling and cooking. It has a timer function, a backlight display, and provides accurate readings. However, it's not waterproof and the probe can be fragile. If you're looking for a durable and waterproof thermometer, you might want to consider other models.

Investing in a good meat thermometer is a game-changer for any barbecue enthusiast. It takes the guesswork out of grilling, ensuring perfectly cooked meat every time. By precisely measuring internal temperatures, you can avoid dry, overcooked meat and achieve juicy, flavorful results. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a grilling newbie, a reliable thermometer is a must-have tool in your arsenal.

Beyond ensuring food safety, a thermometer empowers you to cook to your desired level of doneness. From a juicy medium-rare steak to a perfectly tender chicken breast, you can achieve your culinary goals with confidence. With a wide range of models available, from simple instant-read thermometers to advanced Bluetooth-enabled probes, you're sure to find the perfect match for your grilling needs.

Using a meat thermometer is not just about achieving delicious results, it's about mastering the art of grilling and becoming a true barbecue master. By understanding the science behind cooking temperatures and utilizing the right tools, you can elevate your grilling experience and impress your guests with mouthwatering creations. So, embrace the power of precise cooking and elevate your barbecue game with a reliable meat thermometer.

With so many fantastic options available, you're sure to find the perfect thermometer for your grilling adventures. Whether you're looking for a budget-friendly model or a feature-packed professional tool, there's a meat thermometer out there that will help you achieve grill mastery. So, take the plunge, invest in a quality thermometer, and unleash your inner barbecue champion!