Buying guide for best wireless grill thermometers
For the BBQ king or queen seeking perfection, a wireless grill thermometer allows you to keep tabs on your food using a base unit or phone app — no need to keep heading back outdoors to check the grill every few minutes. A wireless grill thermometer is equally useful for the forgetful cook who wants to avoid overcooking or burning expensive cut of meat on the grill, as the thermometer can alert you when it’s time to remove the food from the grill top.
A wireless grill thermometer reads the temperature of food on the grill using a probe sensor. The probe then transmits temperature data to a base unit or smartphone app. This type of thermometer can also be used for stovetop cooking in the kitchen, but it’s ideal for the grill thanks to its high temperature ratings.
Using a thermometer to track your food helps prevent the random temperature fluctuations that occur when you open the lid of a smoker or grill to “check” your food. Instead, you can check it wirelessly, protecting the integrity of your meal.
Key considerations
Remote unit or app-only
You’ll need to choose between a thermometer with a remote control unit or one that is controlled solely via smartphone app. Always have your phone on hand? You might prefer a wireless grill thermometer without a remote unit. All that’s needed is an app that syncs to included probes, and you won’t have to bother with an extra accessory. If your phone dies or app support suddenly ceases, though, you’re out of luck when it’s time to serve up medium rare filet mignon. With a remote control unit, however, no phone is required. You can monitor your food on the screen of the device.
True wireless
Wireless thermometers usually require probes to be plugged into a base transmitting unit designed to attach to your grill or smoker. Not interested in dealing with wires at all? Opt for a unit marked “truly wireless.” Notably, you may need to deal with connectivity and accuracy issues for this added bit of convenience.
Range
Range depends on the manufacturer and how the device transmits a signal. If you’re hanging around close to your grill, you probably won’t need a unit that’s capable of transmitting very far. To make sure you can keep an eye on your steaks while you entertain guests in your living room, opt for a thermometer with a long range.
Heat rating
Thermometers designed to handle grill cooking typically have a high heat tolerance. If you’re planning to use the thermometer for other kitchen tasks, choose a model that can read low temperatures as well as high ones. For the BBQ, a heat rating of at least 500°F is preferred.
Power source
Wireless thermometers for the grill are battery-powered. Choose between regular batteries or built-in rechargeable batteries. Some models can be charged via USB.
Size
While you’re not likely to find a wireless grill thermometer that’s too big to store, there are models that are more compact and easier to travel with. For extra-easy transport, select a unit that comes with a carrying case.
Features
Not sure what you want from your new wireless grill thermometer? Here are a few of the features you might see offered by different companies.
Number of probes
Without a probe, you’d have no way of monitoring the interior temperature of food. If you’re cooking for a crowd, search for a unit that supports multiple probes to cook each guest’s steak to perfection. For extra precision when grilling, choose a thermometer that also features an ambient probe to monitor the temperature of the cooking area.
Waterproofing
Grilling takes place outdoors, so a waterproof unit is useful in the event that a surprise rainfall occurs. Waterproofing is especially crucial if you plan to take your thermometer camping. This added layer of protection provides extra peace of mind.
Bluetooth vs. WiFi
You’ll find models that offer Bluetooth or WiFi connectivity. Bluetooth range is less impressive than WiFi, but it wins out if you’re using your grill thermometer away from WiFi or when WiFi is down. Wifi offers a longer range with fewer potential connectivity issues. Your best bet? Find an option that offers both for reliable connectivity at all times.
Display
Whether you’re grilling outdoors on a bright sunny day or just before a storm hits, the screen on your wireless thermometer remote unit should be easy to read. For added visibility in low light, a backlight is essential. You shouldn’t need to squint to read the data. A quality thermometer will feature large, easy-to-read fonts.
Presets
Most wireless grill thermometers feature profiles for different types of meats and cuts, so you don’t need to spend time doing a Google search to find out safe cooking temperatures. If you’re already a grill pro, you might prefer a model with customizable temperature settings.
Alerts
A reminder is helpful when you’re busy prepping the rest of the components for a gourmet meal or entertaining guests. Units let you know via smartphone, audio, or flashing light alerts that your food has reached the desired temperature.
Temperature control
What’s the use of monitoring meat temperature if you can’t adjust it accordingly? This high-end feature that utilizes a built-in fan to regulate the temperature of the cooking area is a must-have for grill perfectionists. Some units with this capability require a separately purchased fan to control temperature.
Expert Tip
STAFF
BestReviews
Wireless grill thermometer prices
Under $40
These thermometers don’t necessarily have a remote unit; data goes straight to a downloaded phone application. Budget units usually include a single probe, are less durable, and generally aren’t waterproof or weatherproof. The range is also limited.
Between $40 and $70
At a mid-range price point, expect to get more than one probe, a remote unit, and app support, along with a sturdier overall design and better range.
Over $70
Looking for the best of the best? Pricier thermometers include support for several probes, provide extended range readings with WiFi and Bluetooth, and feature multiple probe types to monitor the food and cooking area temperatures. High-quality thermometers are also weatherproof and may also include built-in fans or support fan control to adjust cooking area temperature.
Tips
Want to get the most out of your new cooking accessory? Some of the responsibility is up to you, the cook! Here are a few tips for using your wireless thermometer correctly.
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Unless you’re cooking vegetables or thin cuts of meat, leave the grill hood closed to prevent heat from escaping.
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For best results, choose a thermometer that features a probe for your meat and one for the grill itself.
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A half-inch deep is deep enough to get an accurate read on interior meat temperature. Too deep, and you risk hitting bone. Not deep enough, and you may not register the actual internal temp. Always check the instructions for guidelines on how to insert the probe, as some models have different requirements.
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Avoid fatty portions of meat. You won’t get an accurate reading by sticking your probe into gristle.
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Meat continues to cook after it has been removed from a heated surface. You may want to remove thick cuts from the grill when they’ve almost reached doneness.
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Don’t start cutting up or slicing meat right away. Let it rest at least five minutes.
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Interior meat color is not a good indicator of a food-safe temperature. To be certain that meat has been cooked correctly and is safe to eat, a thermometer is the only way to go.
Others products we considered
If our top picks don’t strike your fancy, there are a few other standout wireless meat thermometers to choose from. The Meater+ Smart Wireless Meat Thermometer will appeal to the tech-obsessed pitmaster. We love the true wireless design and the functionality of the Meater app, which features a guided cooking system. Inkbird’s IBT-4XS unit is a compact little thermometer that’s perfect for the grill cook on the go. The magnetic base unit attaches to your grill or smoker. Finally, the Pansonite meat thermometer features a large squint-proof display. Its impressive temperature range is useful for more than just grill cooking.
FAQ
Q. How can I be sure I’m getting accurate temperature readings?
A. Before buying, take a peek at the reviews to get an idea of what people are saying about a unit’s accuracy. When cooking, insert the probe correctly, and avoid sticking it in too far. A probe that hits bone won’t provide you with accurate results. Always use a probe that’s in good condition and not warped or bent to prevent inaccurate readings.
Q. Can I purchase additional probes for my grill thermometer?
A. Yes, if your unit supports additional probes, they’re likely to be available for sale by the manufacturer.
Q. What does “truly wireless” mean?
A. Some companies market their wireless grill thermometers as truly wireless because their units don’t require a connection between the probe(s) and a base. While all wireless models allow users to leave the grill or cooking area and monitor food temps from afar, not all thermometers are entirely wire-free. Many models require a connection between the probes and a base that displays the temperature.
