Accurate Temperatures with The Best Digital Thermometers
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Colbiz Digital Thermometer -
LPOW Digital Thermometer -
iHealth No-Touch Forehead Infrared Digital Thermometer -
Etekcity 774 No-Contact Infrared Thermometer for Surfaces -
Buyer's Guide
While it may seem like there are only one or two types of digital thermometers, the reality is that there are quite a few. Whether checking the temperature of HVAC ductwork, measuring a fever, or checking the baking temperature of a turkey, there are many different purposes you might use a thermometer. Below, you'll find a list of what we consider the top digital thermometers on the market, as well as an accompanying buying guide to help you pick the right one for you!
Colbiz Digital Thermometer
- There is a memory recall function of up to 35 temperature records which is useful for tracking temperature progression
- The reading is switchable between ℉ and ℃
- The device needs to be held very close for an accurate reading
LPOW Digital Thermometer
- There is a memory recall function of up to 50 temperature records for tracking temperature progression
- The dual-mode function allows you to measure human body temperature as well as objects and liquids
- The device needs to be held close for accurate readings, between 1 to 5cm
iHealth No-Touch Forehead Infrared Digital Thermometer
- Multi-sensor infrared thermometer measures accurately even without direct contact
- A gentle vibration notifies when done and a bright LED provides readouts
- No option to take ear or mouth readings
Etekcity 774 No-Contact Infrared Thermometer for Surfaces
- Accurate up to 15 inches away
- Uses infrared to detect surface temperatures
- Not for taking human or body temperatures
Our Top Four Infrared Thermometers
Colbiz Digital Thermometer - Best Digital Thermometer Overall
This non-contact digital thermometer features the latest smart chip and infrared technology. The multifunction thermometer provides accurate readings for any age and can be used as a room, liquids, and object thermometer. There is a mute function and an energy-saving setting for longer-lasting battery power. The device has a fever alarm, and a three-color backlight display (green, yellow, and red) to indicate temperature status. It comes with 2 x AAA batteries and a pouch for storing. Colbiz provides a one-year warranty and 24 hours online customer service.
- There is a memory recall function of up to 35 temperature records which is useful for tracking temperature progression
- The reading is switchable between ℉ and ℃
- The device needs to be held very close for an accurate reading
LPOW Digital Thermometer - Runner Up
The LPOW Digital Infrared Thermometer has a high precision sensor that displays readings within one second. The device is designed with user-friendly settings including silent mode, ℉ and ℃ conversion, and a high-temperature alarm. With body temperature measurements the HD LCD screen displays different backlight colors to indicate normal to dangerously high temperature levels in green, yellow, and red. Two x AAA batteries are included.
- There is a memory recall function of up to 50 temperature records for tracking temperature progression
- The dual-mode function allows you to measure human body temperature as well as objects and liquids
- The device needs to be held close for accurate readings, between 1 to 5cm
iHealth No-Touch Forehead Infrared Digital Thermometer - Honorable Mention
This conventional body temperature thermometer is excellent for people of all ages, infants included. It doesn’t require contact and uses 3 sensors to gather accurate readings. This handheld unit is relatively lightweight and compact, and would be great for travel use, too. The three sensors detect temperature, distance, and environmental factors to give more accurate readings. It can measure when pointed at the forehead or temple and works quickly.
- Multi-sensor infrared thermometer measures accurately even without direct contact
- A gentle vibration notifies when done and a bright LED provides readouts
- No option to take ear or mouth readings
Etekcity 774 No-Contact Infrared Thermometer for Surfaces - Consider
More of a tool, this device is not meant to be used on humans, but instead objects and surfaces. This unit is designed to take readings of HVAC vents, engine blocks, or even cooking gear. It’s an excellent way to detect whether or not a cooling system is working, or how hot a particular surface is. The backlit LCD provides accurate readings, which show up in about one second. The laser is calibrated to one foot away from the sensor, but this thermometer can provide measurements from even further away.
- Accurate up to 15 inches away
- Uses infrared to detect surface temperatures
- Not for taking human or body temperatures
Buyer's Guide
A thermometer is an instrument that is used to measure the body temperature of a person, an animal, or an object. Usually, thermometers come with three basic abilities: gauging temperature, displaying the results, and converting the results to your preferred unit, Celcius or Fahrenheit.
Why Should You Have a Thermometer?
Thermometers are not only to be found in hospitals and clinics. There are quite a few good reasons to have one on hand.
Regular body temperature measurement
A high or low body temperature is a sign that you are falling ill, and to confirm what your temperature levels are, you need a thermometer. It is said that body temperature should be taken twice a day to ensure that all is fine with your health. This check is especially important with babies or little kids who can’t say when they feel ill.
Accurate Measurement
It is common practice to touch your hand to your forehead or neck to tell if you have a temperature, and while this is a good way of knowing if you are running hot or cold, it isn’t a very effective method because it does not give an exact measurement. For this reason, it cannot be relied upon and you need a thermometer to get accurate results.
Stress-free
Owning a thermometer eases you of the worry, stress, and financial strain that comes with having to go to see the doctor every single time you feel feverish.
What are the Types of Digital Thermometers?
There are several different types of thermometers, all performing the same functions in different ways. Generally, thermometers that do not make use of mercury are considered digital thermometers, and here are the three most popular types.
Digital
These thermometers are easy to use, quick, accurate, and safe. They are usually placed in the mouth, rectum, or armpit and left for a stipulated period to gauge body temperature. They come with digital displays that give readings in figures and numbers.
Ear (tympanic)
These thermometers carry out temperature measurements inside of the ear canal through infrared technology. They are great because they provide accurate results in a very short time. However, they are not advisable for kids below 6 months because of the size of their ear canals.
Infrared
These make use of infrared rays to gauge temperatures. Most of the ones that fall under this category are non-contact, making them suitable for use in large crowds and when observing social distancing protocols.
What Should You Look Out for When Getting A Digital Thermometer?
Accuracy
This is literally the most important thing to look out for when shopping for a thermometer. Ensure that you go for one that gives you a precise reading of your temperature, as this helps you to know if there are any abnormalities in your body temperature.
Age-range
It is important to know what age you are getting a thermometer for and get one that suits you best. While there are thermometers that can be used for all ages, there are ones that are specifically made for particular age ranges; it is generally advisable to shop for the latter. For example, get a pacifier thermometer for your infant rather than one that goes in the ear or mouth.
Units
What temperature measurement unit are you most familiar and comfortable with? You should get a thermometer that displays readings in that unit, or better still, one that can display in multiple units.
Speed
While purchasing a thermometer, go for one that can take measurements and display results in a short time. This is especially important with infants or kids who do not have a lot of patience and cannot keep still for a long period.
Memory
It is best to get a thermometer that has the memory feature to give you a chance to compare your previous readings and record any improvements.
How Much Do Digital Thermometers Cost?
A thermometer is a pretty affordable piece of equipment, and it doesn't take a lot of cash to get one. Usually, the prices vary based on type and features, but here is a general price quote that should guide you in making a budget.
Inexpensive
Thermometers in this category go for any price within $5-$20. At this price, you should be sure to get a digital thermometer that goes in the armpit, mouth, or rectum.
Midrange
Thermometers in this category cost between $20-$35. Most of the thermometers in this category are infrared and non-contact.
Expensive
This category contains thermometers that cost between $35-$50. They are usually of high quality and are durable and very efficient.
Some Thermometer Buyers Also Ask
How long should my thermometer last?
Ideally, your thermometer is meant to last for anywhere between 5 and 7 years, but this largely depends on the conditions under which it is used and kept.
What are the disadvantages of digital thermometers?
The main disadvantage of digital thermometers is that they are prone to get damaged when dropped. Also, since they tend to be battery-powered, as soon as their batteries power down, they stop working.
How long should I leave a digital thermometer under my tongue?
Ideally, the thermometer should be left for about 40 seconds beneath your tongue, during which time the degree would be rising. However, this time could be more or less depending on what brand you are using and the stipulated time in the guide.
