Best Infrared Thermometer for Cooking in 2024

We analyzed top picks from leading reviewers to find the best for every need
Published: May 29th, 2024

šŸŒ”ļøInfrared thermometers have become a game-changer in the kitchen, making cooking a lot more precise and stress-free. Whether you're grilling, frying, baking, or making candy, these handy tools can quickly and accurately read surface temperatures.

Based on our extensive research into top-reviewed models, we've gathered the best infrared thermometers to help you achieve perfect results every time.

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Overall Best: ThermoWorks ThermapenĀ® IR

The ThermoWorks ThermapenĀ® 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 ThermapenĀ® IR is perfect for grilling, searing, and baking, ensuring precision in every use.

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

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Runner-up: ThermoWorks Industrial IR Gun (IR-GUN-S)

Temperature Gun (NOT for Body Temperature) - Dual Laser Non-Contact Infrared Thermometer -58Ā°F to 1202Ā°F - NIST Option Available - Accurate Digital Surface IR Thermometer eT650D

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 1400Ā°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: Ā±1Ā°F
  • Temperature Range: -76Ā°F to 1400Ā°F
  • Distance-to-Spot Ratio: 30:1
Lowest at any Popular Retailer
$69.95 at Amazon

More Answers

Still curious about the Dual Laser Infrared Thermometer? Here are some answers you might find interesting:

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How do you change the battery in the ennoLogic eT650D?
Hey! Changing the battery in your ennoLogic eT650D is pretty straightforward. Hereā€™s how you can do it: 1. **Turn Off the Device**: Before anything else, make sure it's switched off so thereā€™s no accidental activation. 2. **Find the Battery Compartment**: Check the back of the handle. You'll spot a little door or cover that's the battery compartment. 3. **Open the Compartment**: You might need to slide the cover or use a small screwdriver, depending on your model. Open it gently to get to the batteries. 4. **Remove the Old Batteries**: Take out the old batteries. You'll likely need a 9V battery for this model. Just have a look inside the compartment to confirm the battery type. 5. **Insert the New Battery**: Pop in the new battery, making sure the positive and negative match the markings inside. Check to see it's in securely. 6. **Close the Compartment**: Shut the compartment. If thereā€™s a lock or screws, make sure theyā€™re secured properly. 7. **Test the Thermometer**: Turn it on to see if itā€™s working with the new battery. If it doesnā€™t power up, maybe check the battery alignment. Choosing a good-quality battery will keep your thermometer running smoothly. And when youā€™re done with the old battery, remember to dispose of it responsibly. Oh, and just a heads upā€”while itā€™s great for checking surface temperatures on stuff like cooking or HVAC systems, itā€™s not the one to use for taking body temperatures. For that, you'd want a thermometer specifically meant for medical purposes. Hope that helps!
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How accurate is the ennoLogic eT650D temperature gun?
Hey there! If you're wondering about the accuracy of the ennoLogic eT650D Temperature Gun, it seems like it does the job pretty well. This tool is all about measuring surface temperatures using infrared tech. Just a heads-upā€”itā€™s not made for taking body temperatures. It's more suited for things like industrial, automotive, and cooking uses. From what we've gathered, the gun covers a wide range of temperatures, from -58Ā°F to 1202Ā°F (-50Ā°C to 650Ā°C), which is pretty handy whether you're checking on your car engine or making sure your food's cooked right. The manufacturer mentions that it comes with dual lasers, which help you aim accurately. Also, its adjustable emissivity setting is cool because it lets you get accurate readings on different materialsā€”great if you often switch between checking metal and wood. This thing packs some neat features like a scanning mode to show minimum, maximum, and average temperatures, and it even has alarms for when temperatures get too high or too low. The design is ergonomic and it responds fast, so it's practical whether you're at home or on the job. According to what we've found, people using it for things like HVAC inspections, car diagnostics, or cooking generally find it to be solid and dependable. This lines up with what the specs promise. Just keep in mind, if you're after a thermometer for human temperatures, you'll want something else. This is strictly for surface temps and isnā€™t meant for medical useā€”it might not give you the right readings for that. So, if what you need matches what this device offers, the ennoLogic eT650D could be a good choice for you!

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Budget Pick: Wintact Infrared Thermometer

Wintact Infrared Thermometer Temperature Gun -58ā„‰ to 986ā„‰, Digital IR Heat Surface Temp Gun, Non-Contact Laser Thermal Gun for Cooking Food, BBQ, Pizza Oven, Grill, Griddle Accessories

For those on a budget, the Wintact Infrared Thermometer offers terrific accuracy and reliability without breaking the bank. It demonstrated just a 0.6Ā°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: Ā±0.6Ā°F
  • Temperature Range: -58Ā°F to 716Ā°F
  • Features: Self-calibration, budget-friendly
Lowest at any Popular Retailer
$14.99 at Amazon

Best for Pizza Ovens: Ooni Infrared Thermometer Gun

Ooni Digital Infrared Thermometer - Instand Read IR Thermometer - for Indoor and Outdoor Cooking - Digital Thermometer with LCD Display - Pizza Oven Accessories

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 932Ā°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: Ā±2Ā°F
  • Temperature Range: -58Ā°F to 932Ā°F
  • Features: Fast temperature reading, ergonomic design
Lowest at Amazon
$34.99 at Amazon
Lowest at any Popular Retailer
$34.88 at Walmart

Best for Accuracy: Fluke 62 MAX Mini Infrared Thermometer

Fluke 62 Max Industrial Infrared Thermometer, -22 to +932 Degree F Range, Single Laser Targeting, 10:1 Distance To Spot Ratio, IP54 Rating, Includes 3 Year Warranty, (Not For Human Temp)

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 -22Ā°F to 932Ā°F and maintains an impressive accuracy of Ā±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: Ā±1.5%
  • Temperature Range: -22Ā°F to 932Ā°F
  • Features: Adjustable emissivity, durable construction
Lowest at any Popular Retailer
$119.99 at Amazon

Best for Grilling: Cuisinart CSG-625 Infrared Surface Thermometer

Cuisinart CSG-625 Infrared Surface Thermometer, Silver/Black

For serious grillers, the Cuisinart CSG-625 Infrared Surface Thermometer is a must-have tool. It can measure temperatures up to 932Ā°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: Ā±5Ā°F
  • Temperature Range: -58Ā°F to 932Ā°F
  • Features: Backlit display, laser guide
Lowest at any Popular Retailer
$30.00 at Amazon
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