11 Results from Our Thermometer Types Comparison

7. Instant-read kitchen/infrared probes (dual-purpose)

Instant-read thermometers designed for food are excellent at measuring the internal temperature of meat, milk, or bathwater, and they respond in seconds. These are typically not calibrated for body temperature measurement and should not replace a medical thermometer for diagnosing fever. That said, a chef-style instant-read or infrared surface probe can be handy around the home for non-medical checks—confirming a baby’s bathwater temperature or measuring the temp of room surfaces during extreme weather. They’re generally very fast and precise for the tasks they’re made for, with prices ranging from fifteen to over a hundred dollars depending on features and accuracy. Pros are durability and rapid response for culinary use; cons are a lack of body-temperature calibration and hygiene concerns if the same probe touches food and skin. Keep separate devices for cooking and medical checks. If you want a versatile tool for the kitchen and household chores, buy a dedicated instant-read cooking thermometer and use a medical thermometer for fever checks.