Can you get a perfectly medium-rare steak every time without a meat thermometer? If you can, you’re probably a culinary genius. If not, using a food thermometer is the only reliable way to ensure safety and achieve the desired doneness for meats, poultry, and egg dishes.
Take roasting chicken, for example. The key to perfect doneness is temperature. The internal temperature of the chicken needs to reach 165°F (about 74°C) to be safe to eat and avoid salmonella, while also keeping the meat tender and juicy. According to the USDA’s guidelines, the safe minimum internal temperature for pork and beef is 145°F (63°C), and for poultry, leftovers, and casseroles, it’s 165°F (74°C).
Download our chef-recommended temperature chart.
So, yeah, getting that temperature spot-on really does make a difference, and that’s where a reliable meat thermometer comes in handy. But with so many types out there, how do you know which one’s right for you? Here’s a quick rundown of the main types to help you find your perfect match!
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Instant-Read Meat Thermometer
Instant-read thermometers are handheld devices designed to give you quick, accurate temperature readings in just a few seconds.
Every kitchen needs an instant-read meat thermometer—and here’s why. If you’ve ever overcooked a steak or undercooked chicken, you know how frustrating it is to rely on guesswork. Even a few degrees can make custard curdle or turn shrimp from tender to rubbery. That’s where an instant-read thermometer truly shines.
Take the InstaProbe, for example. While no thermometer is truly “instant,” the InstaProbe delivers accurate readings in just 0.5 seconds or less, allowing you to adjust your cooking in real-time. Whether you’re grilling, roasting, or baking, it’s the ultimate tool to ensure perfectly cooked, safe, and delicious meals every time.
Why I Love Them
- Super easy to use—just stick it in and read the temperature.
- Great for quick checks without disrupting the cooking process too much.
Best For
Quickly checking doneness in steaks, poultry, seafood, and more, ensuring precise, safe, and perfect cooking.
Pro Tip
Always insert the probe into the thickest part of the meat, avoiding bones, for the most accurate reading.
Wireless Meat Thermometer
Unlike the instant read thermometers, the wireless meat thermometer connects to your smartphone via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi and gives you real-time updates on your meat’s temperature, ideal for grilling and smoking, allowing you to track progress remotely with ease and convenience.
When it comes to wireless meat thermometers, a stable signal is crucial for accurate and reliable temperature monitoring. The Sync Gold series features exclusive Sub-1G technology, delivering ultra-stable connectivity up to 3,000 feet in open spaces and 700 feet indoors. This model is designed to penetrate thick smokers, Kamado cookers, toaster ovens, and household walls, ensuring a reliable connection in various cooking environments.
Why I Love Them
- No wires = no mess.
- Perfect for multitaskers (you can monitor your meat from the couch!).
- Advanced features like long-range connectivity and alarms when your meat reaches the desired temperature.
Best For
Roasts, whole turkeys, BBQ, and any slow-cooking method where constant monitoring is helpful.
Pro Tip
If you’re using a smoker or grill, look for a model with a long-range connection to avoid signal dropouts.
Learn more about what is a smart wireless meat thermometer.
Wired Leave-In Meat Thermometer
A wired probe stays inserted in the meat, connected by a heat-resistant cable to an external display or base outside the oven or grill. It provides continuous real-time temperature readings without needing to open the oven or grill, similar to a wireless meat thermometer.
The main difference lies in convenience: a wired thermometer is straightforward and reliable, while a wireless thermometer offers mobility and smart features like app connectivity. Your choice should depend on your cooking style and preferences—wired for simplicity and cost-effectiveness, or wireless for flexibility and advanced functionality.
Best For
Smokers, ovens, and grills where consistent temperature tracking is key.
Pro Tip
Keep the wires away from direct flames or extremely high heat to prevent damage.
Meat Thermometer Care
Taking good care of your meat thermometer isn’t just about extending its life—it’s about ensuring every meal you cook is safe, delicious, and perfectly done.
With a few simple care tips, you can extend the life of your thermometer and ensure it always delivers accurate readings.
Clean It After Every Use
Your thermometer comes into direct contact with raw and cooked meat, so cleaning it thoroughly after every use is a must. This not only keeps it hygienic but also prevents cross-contamination.
Clean the probe with warm, soapy water using a sponge or soft cloth. Typhur meat thermometers are IP67 waterproof and dishwasher-safe, but for other brands, check the waterproof rating. Avoid submerging non-waterproof thermometers, especially digital ones, to prevent damage to internal components.
NOTE: Avoid rinsing the probe directly under ice-cold water immediately after removing it from high heat. The sudden temperature change can cause the material to expand and contract rapidly, potentially damaging the probe or affecting its accuracy over time. Instead, let the probe cool down to room temperature before cleaning it.
