Review Methodology
How we compare thermometers and what our recommendations are based on.
This page explains how we compare thermometers and choose the models we mention. We want you to know exactly what our recommendations are based on.
What our comparisons are based on
We label the source of information in our guides as one of three kinds:
| Source type | What it means |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer specifications | Figures published by the maker, such as range, stated accuracy, response time and water rating. We quote these as claims and link to the source page. |
| Independent research | Official guidance (USDA, FDA, AAP), standards and other reputable published information. |
| Hands-on use | Only when we have actually used a product. The article will say so and describe what we did. |
At present our product comparisons are based on manufacturer specifications and independent research. We have not run laboratory tests on the products we mention, and we will never imply that we have.
The criteria we compare
- Accuracy: the stated tolerance and, importantly, the temperature range it applies to
- Response time: how quickly the maker says a stable reading appears
- Temperature range: whether it covers the job, such as freezer, cooking, frying or surfaces
- Ease of use: display, controls, probe length and one-handed use
- Display readability: backlight, size and auto-rotation
- Durability: water-resistance rating (IP rating) and build
- Battery life: battery type and stated life
- Connectivity: for smart and wireless models, the connection type, range, hub requirements and alerts
- Value for money: features relative to the category. We don’t publish prices because they change constantly.
How models are chosen
We focus on widely available, well-known models in each category, and we prefer models whose manufacturers publish clear specifications. If a maker does not publish a key figure, such as accuracy, we say so instead of guessing.
Keeping information current
Specifications are checked on the manufacturer’s website at the time of writing and when we update an article. Products are sometimes revised or discontinued. Where we know a model has been replaced, we say so.
Commissions
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Commissions do not influence which products we include or how we describe them. See our affiliate disclosure.