The Best Instant-Read Thermometer is Lightning-Fast and Incredibly Accurate

Instant-read thermometers are kitchen workhorses: they're great for precise tasks like making caramel, as well as taking the temperature of steak or poultry (you'll never have to make an incision to check doneness in your roast chicken ever again). While there are a few good options out there, only one model we tested delivered accurate readings (and in three seconds or less, to boot): the Thermapen ONE.

Why It Won Our Review

In our testing, the Thermapen ONE was the fastest and most accurate instant-read thermometer. It read chilled and boiling water, as well as a sous vide bath, accurately in three seconds or less. We also loved its backlit, auto-rotating screen, which quickly flipped the display for easy reading no matter the angle. With a hearty IP67 waterproof rating (which means it can be submerged in water for up to 30 minutes) and a 5-year warranty, the Thermapen ONE is a great kitchen investment.

Good to Know

• Features: Backlight display, rotating screen, rubber non-slip grip edge
• Accuracy: +/- 0.5°F (+/- 0.3°C) from -4° to 248°F (-20° to 120°C)
• Probe Length: 4.3 inches
• Measurement range: -58°F to +572°F
• Waterproof: IP67 (can be submerged for up to 30 minutes)
• Battery life: 2000 hours
• Warranty: 5 years

FAQs

Is Thermapen ONE worth the money? 

It might be more expensive than other instant-read thermometers, but the Thermapen ONE performed the best in all of our testing, has a high water resistance rating, and comes with a 5-year warranty. Though it may be pricey, we think it’s worth the investment and will last many years of use.

How do you use a Thermapen ONE instant-read thermometer?

The Thermapen ONE turns on when you pull out the probe, and the backlit screen lights up when you rotate the thermometer. To get a good temperature reading, insert the probe into the thickest part of whatever you want to take the temp of, and let it stay there for at least two seconds.

Can I use my Thermapen as a candy thermometer?

Yes—the Thermapen ONE has a maximum temperature limit of 572ºF and a resolution of 0.5ºF. It’s much more accurate than analog clip-on thermometers, making it easier to hit precise temperatures for complicated recipes, like caramel.