Best Infrared Thermometer for Cooking in 2024

The ThermoWorks Thermapen® IR takes the crown as our overall best pick for good reason. This dual-purpose tool brilliantly merges an infrared thermometer with a meat probe, making it versatile for both surface and internal temperatures. Its backlit, rotating LCD display ensures readability from any angle, and the motion-sensing sleep/wake feature is a thoughtful touch that saves battery life. Adjustable emissivity settings across various surfaces ensure top-notch accuracy, and with an IP54 rating, it's built to withstand dust and splashes. The Thermapen® IR is perfect for grilling, searing, and baking, ensuring precision in every use.

• Type: Infrared / Meat Probe
• Accuracy: ±1°F
• Temperature Range: -58°F to 932°F (Infrared), -58°F to 572°F (Probe)
• Features: Backlit display, rotating screen, adjustable emissivity, IP54 rating

The ThermoWorks Industrial IR Gun (IR-GUN-S) earns its spot as our runner-up thanks to its high reliability and accuracy, favored by both home cooks and professionals. It boasts a remarkable temperature range up to 1400°F and a 30:1 distance-to-spot ratio for safe and precise measurements from afar. Users appreciate its straightforward interface and adjustable emissivity settings, which allow for dependable readings across various cooking surfaces. If you need something robust yet easy to use, this model is an excellent choice.

• Type: Infrared
• Accuracy: ±1°F
• Temperature Range: -76°F to 1400°F
• Distance-to-Spot Ratio: 30:1

For those on a budget, the Wintact Infrared Thermometer offers terrific accuracy and reliability without breaking the bank. It demonstrated just a 0.6°F deviation in our tests, impressive for its price range. One of its standout features is a self-calibration mode, allowing users to adjust readings based on external conditions. While it may lack the advanced options of pricier models, its strong performance makes it a fantastic option for everyday cooking tasks.

• Type: Infrared
• Accuracy: ±0.6°F
• Temperature Range: -58°F to 716°F
• Features: Self-calibration, budget-friendly

Pizza aficionados will find the Ooni Infrared Thermometer Gun indispensable. Specifically designed to measure the high temperatures needed for perfect pizza, it offers rapid readings up to 932°F. This ensures that your pizza oven or stone is at the optimal temperature for crispy crusts and well-cooked toppings. Its ergonomic design and user-friendly interface make it a favorite among pizza enthusiasts, turning every pizza night into a culinary success.

• Type: Infrared
• Accuracy: ±2°F
• Temperature Range: -58°F to 932°F
• Features: Fast temperature reading, ergonomic design

When precision is non-negotiable, the Fluke 62 MAX Mini Infrared Thermometer shines with its accuracy and robust build. It covers a temperature range from -22°F to 932°F and maintains an impressive accuracy of ±1.5%. Its durable construction is built to withstand tough kitchen environments, and the adjustable emissivity feature ensures accurate readings across different surfaces. Compact and easy to use, it's a valuable tool for any professional chef aiming for perfection.

• Type: Infrared
• Accuracy: ±1.5%
• Temperature Range: -22°F to 932°F
• Features: Adjustable emissivity, durable construction

For serious grillers, the Cuisinart CSG-625 Infrared Surface Thermometer is a must-have tool. It can measure temperatures up to 932°F and features an easy-to-read backlit display along with a laser guide for pinpoint accuracy. This thermometer is excellent for quickly and accurately gauging the temperature of your grill grates, ensuring optimal cooking conditions for your BBQ. Its performance and features make it a reliable companion for any grilling enthusiast.

• Type: Infrared
• Accuracy: ±5°F
• Temperature Range: -58°F to 932°F
• Features: Backlit display, laser guide