Just about any meat thermometer can help a chef determine when a steak, turkey, or roast is ready—without committing the culinary sin of cutting into the meat to check the internal temperature—but wireless meat thermometers take this ability to the next level.
According to Jeremy Pike, author and recipe creator at Angry BBQ, wireless meat thermometers allow home chefs to “keep an eye on the meat’s cooking process without needing to disturb the cooking environment which would lose heat and smoke” with the help of their probes.These probes can monitor the internal temperature of an oven, the temperature of the meat, or multiple types of meat all at once. The transmitter then sends this information to either a remote control or a smart device, allowing the chef to carefully monitor the temperature of the main course from as far as 500 feet away. Conveniently, these devices also feature programmable alerts to let the user know when the meat is ready.
This guide explains the most crucial features to consider when shopping for the best wireless meat thermometer and reviews of some of the top models on the market so buyers can make an informed purchasing decision.
- BEST OVERALL: ThermoPro TP20 Wireless Meat Thermometer
- BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: NutriChef Wireless BBQ Digital Thermometer
- BEST FOR GRILLING: Meater Block Smart Meat Thermometer
- BEST FOR SMOKING: ThermoPro TP27 Long-Range Wireless Meat Thermometer
- BEST DESIGN: Bfour Bluetooth Wireless Meat Thermometer
- BEST SMART: Meater Plus With Bluetooth Repeater Thermometer
How We Chose the Best Wireless Meat Thermometers
When gathering the top picks for the best wireless meat thermometers, our research focused on the quality of materials, the accuracy of temperature readings, the number of probes, and additional features.
All recommended wireless meat thermometers are made from high-quality materials that can withstand high oven temperatures. However, note that certain models also come with remote displays that will melt if placed near or on a hot exterior oven or grill surface. According to Pike, wireless meat thermometers are best for “smoking meat low and slow, cooking whole poultry, or reverse-searing thick steaks” and “are designed for a slower cooking process”. So, wireless thermometers that can withstand low to high heat for long periods are among the most reliable options.
Models on the market offer varying numbers of probes for accuracy while in use. This list includes a similar variety to help shoppers who prefer a single smart probe or those looking to monitor the cooking processes of several pieces of meat simultaneously.
Many technology-packed options also made it onto this list, some allowing users to choose the specific meat they are cooking while the smartphone app does the hard work for them. Some of these products also include the option to choose the desired temperature and may notify users when the meat is cooked to that target temperature.
Though some of these options come at a higher price tag, the best meat thermometers offer more convenient features compared to more standard models. Depending on preference, shoppers will find a suitable option in both desired features and price point.
Our Top Picks
Below are some of the top app-controlled and remote-controlled wireless meat thermometers on the market. Any of these products will be helpful in cooking meat to the desired temperature and ensuring that holiday turkeys, barbecue steaks, and healthy salmon are always cooked properly.
Photo: amazon.com
Durable construction and a well-designed interface make the ThermoPro TP20 a worthy choice for most kitchens. It consists of two pieces: the thermometer, which has wires that extend to the probes, and a remote device. Both devices display temperature information, and the transmitter has a range of up to 300 feet.
This model has a rugged, rubberized housing that can endure a few falls off the kitchen counter or the scorching heat of a hot grill. A thoughtful design, which includes two probes for monitoring both the oven temperature and the temperature of the meat, or two different types of meat, adds to wireless thermometer’s ease of use. Temperature info is clearly visible with its large type on a backlit digital display. Presets for nine kinds of meat based on USDA cooking guidelines eliminate the need to enter temperature readings but are also editable to suit the chef’s preferences.
What our tester says: Jen Karetnick, Bob Vila writer and product tester, notes in The Best Meat Thermometers Tested that “freedom from attending to the thermometer allows the user to mingle, watch the game, or perform other tasks while cooking. It frees the cook from having to constantly check on the food in the smoker or barbecue, which is perfect for those that smoke brisket for over 8 hours. The two stay-in probes connect to a base display model that relays information to the user’s handheld monitor.”
Product Specs
- Receiver: Remote device
- Range: 300 feet
- Probes: 2
Pros
- Simple to use with preset temperatures and taste preferences on display
- Long probes, which can help reach the center of large cuts of meat
- Probes can stay in place to monitor 2 portions of meat simultaneously
Cons
- Only 2 probes included
- Communicates through remote, but has no Bluetooth connection
Get the ThermoPro TP20 wireless meat thermometer at Amazon.
Photo: amazon.com
Those who want a wireless thermometer that meets their needs without breaking the bank will want to check out the NutriChef wireless BBQ meat thermometer. This budget-friendly option comes with Bluetooth wireless smart temperature monitoring, which sends notifications to any smartphone within 200 feet through the EasyBBQ app.
The NutriChef wireless thermometer comes with two probes and can accommodate up to six probes for accurate monitoring on the barbecue, grill, or oven in temperatures of up to 572 degrees Fahrenheit. For added convenience, this thermometer also has a large LCD display that shows temperature readings and progress while the meat cooks. Finally, this digital thermometer includes a travel case for storage and portability.
Product Specs
- Receiver: Smartphone app via Bluetooth
- Range: 200 feet
- Probes: 2 included; add up to 6
Pros
- Bluetooth smart monitoring and EasyBBQ app help monitor meat while cooking and send temperature alerts
- Can be used with ovens, grills, and barbecues; effective in temperatures of up to 572 degrees Fahrenheit
- Large LCD display shows the temperature and progress of the meat while it cooks
- Travel case offers portability to store for family barbecues or take along on trips
Cons
- Some users have reported that the probes are difficult to use
Get the NutriChef wireless meat thermometer at Amazon.
Photo: amazon.com
Grill masters and enthusiasts may find the Meater Block meat thermometer just right for their needs. This smart thermometer comes with four probes (each with dual temperature sensors), a 165-foot Wi-Fi range, and a guided cook system that walks users through every step of the cooking process for consistent and accurate results. This thermometer’s probes are durable enough to withstand internal meat temperatures of up to 212 degrees Fahrenheit and external temperatures of 527 degrees Fahrenheit.
For added user-friendliness, this smart thermometer has customizable alerts based on temperature and cooking time, which cooks can monitor via the Meater app or through Amazon Alexa. Or, this model can be set to Standalone mode, which turns off the smart functionality if desired. The high-tech pick also comes with an advanced estimator algorithm that projects how long to cook and rest food before serving. Finally, this top pick runs on a micro-USB port charger for added convenience. The only downside is that the Standalone mode provides only a 10-foot range.
Product Specs
- Receiver: Bluetooth via smartphone or block Standalone mode
- Range: 165 feet (Bluetooth), 10 feet (Standalone)
- Probes: 4
Pros
- Comes with 4 probes and a Wi-Fi-enabled wood block; each probe has dual sensors
- Guided cooking system integrated for consistent and reliable results
- Customizable alerts and usage; adjustable notifications via Wi-Fi or in Standalone mode
- Advanced estimator algorithm estimates how long to let food cook and rest
Cons
- Probes are longer than some other options on the market; may not be suitable for small food items
Get the Meater Block wireless meat thermometer at Amazon.
Photo: amazon.com
A smoking session can last all day and then some, involving various types of meats ranging from pork butts to briskets to whole chickens. With that in mind, the chef can’t be tied to the smoker or limited to monitoring the desired temperature of just one meat. With the ThermoPro TP27’s maximum range of 500 feet, the grill master can tackle yard work, watch the big game, or even visit with neighbors while still keeping a close eye on the temperature of the smoker and its contained meats.
There’s also no need to choose just one meat to use with this thermometer, as this model can monitor four different temperatures at once with four probes. At 6.2 inches, each probe is long enough to handle large cuts of meat. All four temperatures are viewable at once via both the transmitter and the wireless remote unit. A programmable alarm vibrates the remote and flashes its backlight when one of the probes has reached the preset temperature.
Product Specs
- Receiver: Wireless remote control
- Range: 500 feet
- Probes: 4
Pros
- Large 500-foot range of remote control offers freedom of movement while cooking
- Receiver made from durable materials, with option to hang, stand, or attach magnetic back
- Multiple notification options include beep, vibration, or both
- 4 probes with color coating can monitor several portions of meat at once
Cons
- No settings available for different meat types
Get the ThermoPro TP27 wireless meat thermometer at Amazon.
Photo: amazon.com
Although brightly colored meat thermometers with large, rubberized housings may be ideal for rugged use, they don’t necessarily add to a kitchen’s aesthetics. With its black color, circular display, and orange background, this wireless meat thermometer from Bfour sports a sophisticated look for those who appreciate the aesthetics of their indoor or outdoor kitchen.
But this model isn’t just about looks. It has plenty of functionality, too. It comes with six probes for monitoring multiple types of meats at once. Each probe has an aluminum alloy handle that can endure up to 572 degrees Fahrenheit, so this thermometer can track several foods cooking at high temperatures. Bluetooth functionality allows the chef to monitor each probe via an easy-to-use app that includes preset temperatures for 11 different types of meat.
Product Specs
- Receiver: Smartphone app via Bluetooth
- Range: 196 feet
- Probes: 6
Pros
- Large LCD display, plus app display for remote monitoring of temperatures
- Rugged and modern design for indoor or outdoor kitchens
- Customizable internal temperature notifications for 6 probes
Cons
- App configuration can be complicated for some users
Get the Bfour wireless meat thermometer at Amazon.
Photo: amazon.com
Although the price may be a little steep for some chefs’ tastes, those who are serious about getting that just-right temperature in their meat might consider this smart meat thermometer from Meater to be a must-have. A highlight is its use of a charging block that plugs into a standard outlet instead of a transmitter. The charging block links the thermometer to a smart device up to 165 feet away, eliminating the need to hang a transmitter off the grill or oven.
Using the Meater app, this device displays both the ambient temperature of the grill up to 527 degrees Fahrenheit and the meat temperature up to 212 degrees Fahrenheit in an attractive full-color display. The Meater also provides step-by-step cooking instructions, including estimates for total cook time and resting time, for various preset meat types such as rotisserie chicken and rib-eye steaks.
Product Specs
- Receiver: Wireless probe connects to smartphone app
- Range: 165 feet
- Probes: 1
Pros
- Provides detailed temperature and cooking information and estimates cooking time
- Probe is completely wireless and has dual sensors
- Comes with a stylish bamboo charging dock
- Wi-Fi and Amazon Alexa compatibility, and ability to monitor from multiple devices
- Also monitors ambient temperature
Cons
- Added features make it more expensive
- Only 1 probe
Get the Meater wireless meat thermometer at Amazon, The Home Depot, or Best Buy.
What to Consider When Choosing a Wireless Meat Thermometer
Choosing between a wireless meat thermometer that uses a remote control or one that communicates via a smart device is an important consideration to think about, but other factors are also crucial, including range, number of probes, and additional features. Ahead, learn more about the attributes of wireless meat thermometers.
Receiver
Wireless meat thermometers are available with one of two receivers: remote controlled or app controlled. Remote-controlled meat thermometers have a transmitter with multiple outlets that plug into the meat thermometer, while probes are placed inside the meat. These transmitters display temperature information. The transmitter can communicate with a remote-control receiver that allows the user to monitor temperature and set alerts based on preset temperature settings.
App-controlled meat thermometers function similarly; however, the transmitter connects to a smart device via Bluetooth instead of to a remote unit, allowing users to monitor the temperature and set alerts via a compatible app on their smartphone or tablet.
Display
Displays vary between the two different types of meat thermometers. Remote-control meat thermometers have digital displays that show the current temperature of all probes as well as the target temperature. The displays are typically backlit with amber light to allow the user to see them even in low light or complete darkness; buttons on the remote manage its settings.
App-controlled interfaces are typically more sophisticated than remote-control models, with full-color displays, touch controls that are easier to use, and extras such as graphs that show the progression of temperature during cooking time.
Range
One of the main benefits of having a wireless meat thermometer is that it allows the user to see the temperature of the meat without having to be tied to the oven or grill. This advantage enables the user to entertain guests or perform other cooking duties while still closely monitoring the temperature of the main course.
Range is where remote-controlled wireless meat thermometers have the edge over traditional meat thermometers. App-controlled meat thermometers have a maximum range of around 200 feet, while remote-controlled models have a range of up to 500 feet. Keep in mind that the max range is outdoors with no obstructions between the transmitter and the remote or smart device. Walls and other obstacles will reduce the range of both app-controlled and remote-controlled meat thermometers.
Probes
When shopping for a wireless meat thermometer, it’s crucial to pay attention to how many probes it has. Lower-end models come with at least two probes, allowing the user to simultaneously monitor the temperature of the meat and the ambient temperature inside the grill or oven, or the temperature of two different types of meat.
Higher-end models include up to six probes that can monitor temperature simultaneously, making them ideal for cooking different types of meat at once, grilling steaks to various temperature preferences, or even tracking the temperature of different parts of a whole turkey.
Probes also have different lengths. Shorter probes are ideal for steaks and other thinner cuts of meat, while longer ones are suitable for whole chickens and turkeys or larger cuts of meat, such as pork butts and roasts.
Additional Features
Besides offering the convenience of remote operation, wireless meat thermometers also have other features to support the chef. Both app-controlled and remote-controlled models have preset temperature settings for different types of meat, based on cooking recommendations from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA).
Some app-controlled models provide step-by-step instructions for cooking turkeys, rib-eye steaks, and other specific types of meat. Both types also feature programmable alarms that alert the user when the meat has reached the preset temperature.
Since the transmitter must be close to the meat, many have magnetic backs that allow them to stick conveniently to the grill or oven. Grill transmitters operate near high heat, while receivers are usually carried from place to place. This portability is convenient but also makes them more susceptible to damage. Most have durable housings with a thick, rubberized exterior that allows them to endure drops and extreme temperatures.
FAQs
Still wondering how to use a meat thermometer with an oven or what the range of a wireless meat thermometer is? Read on for answers to some of the most common questions about using these convenient cooking tools.
Q. Which type of meat thermometer has the longest range?
Remote-controlled meat thermometers have the longest range, with a maximum distance of 500 feet. App-controlled wireless meat thermometers typically top out at 200 feet or less.
Q. How do I use a meat thermometer in the oven?
Meat thermometers have long wires that extend from each probe to the transmitter. Attach the transmitter to the oven exterior using its magnetic back, then extend each probe into the meat in the oven. There should be plenty of slack in the wires to allow you to close the oven door while keeping the probes in place.
Q. Can I leave my wireless meat thermometer in an oven?
While you should not put the transmitter in the oven itself, the probes are designed to endure the heat of the oven and can therefore stay in place during the entire cooking process.
Q. How far do I insert a meat thermometer?
The probe should go deep enough to reach the center of the meat. Meat thermometers should penetrate at least half an inch into the meat. For thicker meats, such as whole chicken or turkey, it may be necessary to insert the probe farther to reach the very center.
Q. Where is the best place to insert a meat thermometer?
The thermometer should be inserted into the thickest part of the meat and penetrate to the center to get the most accurate readings.
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