10 Best Infrared Thermometers For Cooking

To help you get the precise temperature readings of cooked items, we have compiled a list of the best infrared thermometers for cooking and grilling. These IR temperature guns are tested and approved for daily use.

Best Infrared Thermometer For Cooking

"We independently review the products we recommend! When you buy through links on TheLadyChef.com, We may earn an affiliate commission. Learn more"

Do you need the best infrared thermometer to safely check the heat of meat, Mini Pizza Bites and BBQ from far away? Infrared thermometers are the right tool to measure precise temp while cooking food. They are lightweight and compact, so you can put them in your pocket or hook them on your belt. Since the IR thermometers run on batteries, so they don’t run out of power for sometime. If you like infrared tools, see one of our top-rated infrared hot plates.

10 Best Infrared Thermometers For Cooking And Grilling

  1. Best Overall – Fluke 62 Max+
    Read Review
  2. Best For Everyday Use– Etekcity Lasergrip 1080
    Read Review
  3. Best for Cooking and Baking – Wintact WT320
    Read Review
  4. Best Budget – SovarCate HS960D
    Read Review
  5. Best for Pizza Oven – ThermoPro TP30
    Read Review
  6. Best for Cooking Oil – Etekcity Lasergrip 1022D
    Read Review
  7. Best Design – Cuisinart CSG-625
    Read Review
  8. Best Thermometer with Probe: Taylor Precision Thermometer
    Read Review
  9. Best For Grilling – SovarCate HS980E
    Read Review
  10. Best For Meat– Estink Infrared Thermometer
    Read Review

1. Fluke 62 Max+ Infrared Thermometer

Fluke 62 Max+ Infrared Thermometer
Fluke 62 Max+

Specifications

  • Brand: Fluke
  • Power source: Battery Powered
  • Resolution: 0.1F
  • Display Type: LCD
  • Maximum storage: 650 Degrees F
  • Color: Yellow
  • Weight: 9.0 ounces
  • Price: $135 (When Reviewed)

What We Like

  • IP54 certified
  • Small in size
  • Precise technology
  • Accurate measurements

What We Don’t Like

  • Not much durable
  • Less battery life

The Fluke 62 Max+ Infrared Thermometer is incredibly useful for checking a variety of temperature readings both indoors and outdoors. As any pizza lover knows, bricks in a wood-fired oven need to reach approximately 700 degrees Fahrenheit for ideal crust. The Fluke allows effortless measurement of this critical temperature. I also frequently rely on this thermometer to monitor external food temperatures during cooking. It even proves handy for measuring the temperatures of electronic equipment and indoor or outdoor environments.

Constructed with high quality materials, the Fluke features a well-built design. Soft-touch plastics provide a comfortable grip while operating. A large, bright display makes readings simple to view even in low light. The laser pointer focuses measurements precisely on the target area. Adjustable emissivity calibration allows for accurate readings on various surface types, including reflective materials.

Though comparatively expensive, the Fluke proves much better than the cheap infrared thermometers that lack accuracy and features.

Some initial confusion may arise from unclear instructions on switching between Celsius and Fahrenheit. However, with moderate use the intuitive interface and accurate temperature readings make the Fluke the best choice. Overall, the Fluke 62 Max+ Infrared Thermometer delivers high quality performance and can can be used on multiple objects for accurate temperature readings.

You can also buy this thermometer at: WalmartFluke


2. Etekcity Lasergrip 1080

Etekcity Lasergrip 1080 Infrared Thermometer
Etekcity Lasergrip 1080

Specifications

  • Temperature Range: -58°–1130°F / -50°–610°C
  • Response Time: 500 ms
  • Emissivity Range: 0.1–1.0
  • Distance-to-Spot Ratio (D:S): 12:1
  • Display: Backlit LCD screen

What We Like

  • Better accuracy
  • Multiple functions
  • Quicker Target
  • Lightweight

What We Don’t Like

  • Limited warranty

When it comes to measuring temperatures right, the Etekcity Lasergrip 1080 Infrared Thermometer stands out as a flexible kitchen gadget. Its wide temperature range, pro-EMS mode, and ability to check the temperature without physical contact make it the best infrared thermometer for cooking and grilling meat.

With an upgraded temperature range, this thermometer ensures you can measure a wide variety of surfaces accurately. The rapid 500ms response time guarantees quick and efficient results. Moreover, the clear display also shows the maximum temperature of the surface to keep an optimum temperature while cooking chicken, turkey, bacon or salmon.

The Lasergrip 1080 features a professional EMS mode for precise readings across different surfaces and conditions. Adjusting the emissivity is a breeze; simply press and hold the Up and Down buttons to fine-tune your measurements.

Thanks to its 12:1 distance-to-spot ratio (D:S), the Lasergrip 1080 lets you precisely check targets from a distance of 12 inches. This is great when monitoring things that could be risky or hard to reach. However, you’ll have to keep the thermometer around 15 inches away to prevent any problems.

Overall, the Lasergrip 1080 is one is the best premium infrared thermomers that is built to last longer thanks to its auto-off feature and high-quality batteries.

You can also buy this thermometer at: EtekcityWalmart

Here are the best BBQ Temperature Controllers.


3. Wintact WT320

Wintact WT320 - Infrared Thermometer For Cooking

Features & Specs:

  • Temp. Range: -58℉-986℉(-50℃-530℃)
  • Included Components: 2 x 1.5V AAA batteries
  • Material: Plastic
  • Display Type: LCD
  • Warranty: 1-year

What We Like

  • Direct food contact is not required
  • Gives accurate temperature reading
  • Auto-shutoff and backlighting for convenience
  • Perfect for baking, cooking, and freezing.

What We Don’t Like

  • Not a versatile thermometer

As you start cooking more meals, you’ll understand the importance of precise temperature for cooking or baking. The Wintact infrared thermometer is a kitchen tool every good chef needs.

This thermometer measures the temperature accurately in a range of -58℉-986℉ 2(-50℃-530℃). This range is more than what is offered by the Cuisinart CSG-625.

Hence, you can precisely measure the temperature of hotter foods as well.  It also displays results within 0.5 seconds and holds data for a while.

Although I love this temperature gun for checking the temperature in my kitchen, one thing that is missing in this gadget is its use limited to home or commercial cooking. This model is not designed to check the temperatures of swimming pools, ovens, car engines, etc. So, if you want a more versatile thermometer, the Etekcity Infrared Thermometer Gun can be a good alternative.

You can also buy this thermometer at: eBay


4. SovarCate HS960D

SovarCate HS960D
SovarCate HS960D

Specifications

  • Brand: SovarCate
  • Power source: Battery Powered
  • Resolution: 0.1F
  • Response time: 0.5 seconds
  • Maximum storage: 1112 Degrees
  • Weight: 5.3 ounces 

What We Like

  • Quick response time
  • Versatile design
  • Highly affordable
  • Built-in red laser

What We Don’t Like

  • Not much durable

The SovarCate HS960D infrared thermometer has become an indispensable part of my daily routine. Whether I’m cooking in the kitchen, grilling outdoors, or troubleshooting appliances, it allows contactless temperature measurements with ease and accuracy. No longer do I need to compromise hygiene or risk cross-contamination when checking food temperatures? With a simple trigger pull, I can verify meats are cooked to the desired doneness.

The laser sighting delivers pinpoint readings, while the clear display presents results intuitively. This eliminates uncertainty, empowering informed decisions based on data. Measurements are fast, ranging from deep freeze to oven temperatures. From pizza baking to vehicle maintenance, its performance is impressive. Adjustable emissivity further enhances accuracy for varied surfaces like cast iron or aluminum.

As a bonus, the integrated meat probe proves invaluable for grilling season. It ensures proteins are cooked safely and to taste. Factors such as distance and environment can minimally impact results like with all infrared thermometers. However, the thermometer’s consistent reliability and effortless one-handed operation outweigh minor variations.

Contactless reading, precision laser targeting, customizable settings, and a wide measurement range combine to make the SovarCate HS960D the best multipurpose tool. It gives confidence that temperature assessments, from the kitchen to the garage, reflect real-time conditions. Whether cooking or troubleshooting, this thermometer empowers accurate, well-informed decisions.

You can also buy this thermometer at: eBay


5. ThermoPro TP30

ThermoPro TP30
ThermoPro TP30

Specifications

  • Brand: ThermoPro
  • Power source: Battery Powered
  • Resolution: 0.1F
  • Response time: 500ms
  • Weight: 5 ounces 
  • Temperature range: 58F-1022F

What We Like

  • Ultra-fast deduction
  • Various uses
  • Easy to use
  • Highly accurate

What We Don’t Like

  • Less battery performance

I want to verify that my baking steel pan reaches the proper temperature before I put in each pizza. So, I purchased the ThermoPro TP30 infrared thermometer during an Amazon Prime Day sale, because I needed a reliable way to check temperatures for homemade pizza baking in my home oven. Although the TP30 delivers fast and accurate readings as expected, the small screen size and lack of brightness in certain lighting conditions can make viewing angles less than ideal at times.

The thermometer lets you measure heat of food items from a distance thanks to its latest thermopile sensor technology that provides the highest accuracy when recording the temperature of a Pizza oven.

While not designed for measuring internal meat temperatures, the TP30 infrared thermometer excels at determining the surface temperatures of various objects quickly and effortlessly. It delivers excellent results for checking oven, grill, and refrigerator temperatures with simple point-and-shoot operation.

Particularly for outdoors, the TP30 stands out. Its laser sighting makes temperature targets easy to acquire even in bright sunlight. It uses standard AAA batteries that are much better than the costlier 9-volt options.

In conclusion, ThermoPro TP30 is the top-rated temperature gun to measure temperature while cooking, as well as to monitor the heat of various objects.

You can also buy this thermometer at: WalmartThermoProHomeDepot


6. Etekcity Lasergrip 1022D

Etekcity Lasergrip 1022D
Etekcity Lasergrip 1022D

Specifications

  • Brand: Etekcity
  • Power source: Battery Powered
  • Resolution: 0.1F
  • Response time: 0.5 seconds
  • Maximum storage: 50 Degrees F
  • Spot ratio: 12:1
  • Weight: 6.1 ounces 

What We Like

  • Quick dual laser
  • Long-lasting battery
  • Maximum measure
  • Accurate reading

What We Don’t Like

  • Maximum storage is less

Purchasing the Etekcity Lasergrip 1022D infrared thermometer has allowed me to precisely control cooking temperatures to elevate the flavors of dishes, I make, to a new level. The fried eggs, I make, are now consistently restaurant quality rather than overcooked.

The setup and use of the Etekcity 1022D was not simple for me. Testing it against my oven calibrated it accurately to 300 degrees. For making authentic Neapolitan pizza in my outdoor oven, reaching the proper stone temperature of around 800 degrees Fahrenheit is critical—an impossible task without the thermometer.

I rely on the Etekcity Lasergrip 1022D daily when baking pizza or using my griddle top. Temperature readings are consistently on target, giving me confidence food is cooking as intended. Chocolate tempering no longer requires the slow dip-and-wipe method, thanks to Etekcity’s fast, contactless readings. Its ease and precision also proved helpful when monitoring the temperature in my bearded dragon’s terrarium.

Considering its affordable cost, some limitations are understandable. However, taking multiple spot readings and averaging eliminates inaccuracies, making the Etekcity Lasergrip 1022D an extremely useful tool. Whether measuring cast iron skillets, pizza stones, grills, or other surfaces, it helps me monitor the proper preheat temperatures.

Apart from ThermoPro TP30, the Etekcity Lasergrip 1022Dt is also ideal for measuring object temperatures, such as Air conditioners, refrigerators, and stovetops. Overall, ThermoPro TP30 is the best IR thermometer to accurately preheat the oven for making pizza or desserts.

You can also buy this thermometer at: EtekcityWalmart


7. Cuisinart CSG-625 Infrared Thermometer

Cuisinart Infrared Thermometer for cooking

Features & Specs:

  • Power source: Battery operated
  • Unit count: 1.0
  • Connectivity: Infrared
  • Display: LCD

What We Like

  • Can measure temperatures upto 716 F
  • Accurate temperature reading
  • LCD and a backlit screen
  • Comes with the batteries
  • Auto-off feature
  • Works well with liquids such as tea or coffee too

What We Don’t Like

  • Battery life is short

Cuisinart’s Infrared surface thermometer lets you measure the temperature of any cooking surface. Be it a grill, a pizza stone, or a grate, the accuracy of this thermometer is excellent.

Not only does it give readings in both Celsius and Fahrenheit, but its laser infrared technology can precisely detect the temperature of foods as small as one inch. While using this temperature gun to check the steak’s heat, I noticed that it measures temperature from a distance of 12 inches.

With this Infrared thermometer, you’ll no longer need a probe to measure the temperature of your steak, and you can find the perfectly heated spot to place your steak on the pan!

Besides, I also tried using the device to detect the temperature of other equipment, such as a refrigerator, freezer, steamer, and sandwich maker. And, Yes! The Cuisinart thermometer worked well here too.

This infrared thermometer shows the surface temperature of your food on its digital LED screen. You can turn it on or off with a simple button. It has an auto-off feature which helps save its battery life. However after frequent use, I noticed that its battery life is small, and it lasted for only 3 weeks. You would have to replace them. Overall, this is the best infrared temperature gun that you can use for regular cooking.

You can also buy this thermometer at: GetUSCartWalmartCuisinart


8. Taylor Precision Splash-Proof Thermometer

Taylor Precision Splash-Proof Thermometer
Taylor Precision Splash-Proof Thermometer

Specifications

  • Brand: Taylor Precision Products
  • Power source: Battery Powered
  • Resolution: 0.5 Degrees F
  • Temperature: Dual
  • Maximum storage: 626 Degrees F
  • Weight: 4.8 ounces 

What We Like

  • Splash proof
  • Dual temperature
  • Battery warranty
  • IP65 rated

What We Don’t Like

  • A bit costly

A fast-reading probe is essential for grilling and roasting foods accurately. The Taylor IR thermometer delivers precise temperature readings in a couple of seconds, allowing home cooks to closely monitor food doneness. While I have not performed independent accuracy tests on the probe, readings tend to be within a degree of expected temperatures like boiling water.

What sets the Taylor apart from similar models is its integrated infrared thermometer. This function measures the surface temperature of objects without touching them using infrared light. Home chefs will find this IR thermometer best for checking preheated pan temperatures, whether it’s a frying pan, wok, or other cookware.

With practice, you can determine ideal browning temperatures for proteins, vegetables, and more for each cooking vessel. This prevents oversteaming or burning foods in oil or butter. Though not perfect, this infrared thermometer reads temperatures up to around 500°F.

The IR feature performs well on cast iron, anodized aluminum, and non-stick surfaces. However, Highly reflective surfaces like stainless steel can interfere with readings, presumably reflecting the probe’s own temperature.

Although this Taylor IR thermometer is comparatively expensive, it appeals to serious home cooks thanks to its fast and accurate probe readings combined with the ability to calibrate pan temperatures using infrared technology.

You can also buy this thermometer at: WalmartTaylorUSA


9. SovarCate HS980E

SovarCate HS980E
SovarCate HS980E

Specifications

  • Brand: SovarCate
  • Power source: Battery Powered
  • Material: Plastic
  • Color: Black
  • Maximum storage: 1112 Degrees F
  • Spot ratio: 12:1
  • Laser: 12 dots 

What We Like

  • Multiple functions
  • Adjustable emissivity
  • High durability
  • Budget-friendly

What We Don’t Like

  • Limited warranty

This thermometer by SovarKate is the best digital thermometer with a blend of durability and affordability. This thermometer has all the practical features that you’ll need in a kitchen gadget.

The high precision and multi-point indication are useful as they provide an accurate surface temperature of the object. This measuring gun has 12-laser indicated dots, fast response time, and a small LCD screen to help you see the readings in the dark.

You can also use the SovarCate infrared thermometer to measure the surface temperature of cooktops, ovens, grilling pans, frozen foods, fried foods, car repair, and water temperature.

Besides, SovarCate offers a two-year money-back guarantee if the product fails to work and lifetime technical support. So, this is a win-win situation for every home chef who is looking for a reliable infrared thermometer for cooking food.

You can also buy this thermometer at: Ebay


10. Estink ES6530B

Estink Infrared Thermometer
Estink ES6530B

Specifications

  • Brand: Estink
  • Power source: Battery Powered
  • Resolution: 0.1F
  • Response time: 0.5 seconds
  • Spot ratio: 12:1
  • Upper Temperature: 1022 Degrees F
  • Weight: 7.2 ounces

What We Like

  • Accurate readings
  • HD LCD Display
  • Quick temperature alarm
  • Multipurpose

What We Don’t Like

  • A bit heavy
  • Buttons are not very fancy

Estink Infrared Thermometer is best for measuring the temperatures of hot food items and kitchen utensils. Besides, the thermometer features adjustable emissivity and precise temperature readings.

The LCD is prominent and enables you to read the measurements easily in the dark. Its power-saving feature turns off the thermometer after 25 seconds of inactivity.

Apart from using it for measuring the temperature of food items, you can use it for other tasks, such as home cooling, barbeque, repair work, and home maintenance. With the temperature alarm, you will immediately get notified if the temperature exceeds the given temperature.

You can also buy this thermometer at: eBay


Why Trust TheLadyChef

Adalynn Ward is a food writer and editor at TheLadyChef. As an avid home cook, she knows the importance of finding the right kitchen gadget and how to test that thoroughly. She loves trying different recipes in her oven from Mini Pizza bites to Eggnog Sugar Cookie Bars. After a thorough research and testing process she tests the kitchen products with her team to find the right product for the right job.

Frequently Asked Questions  

Is an infrared thermometer accurate?

Infrared thermometers accurately measure food items, boiling points, freezing points, and household objects such as refrigerators, ovens, and air conditioners. However, measuring shiny and reflective surfaces can be challenging as glossy paint or surfaces can disturb the accuracy.

Are infrared thermometers safe?

Infrared thermometers are safe, so you don’t have to worry. Ensure that you stay away from the laser beams, do not point them at someone, and wear safety goggles when using the thermometer for measuring temperature.

Can you use infrared thermometers on humans?

Yes, you can use infrared thermometers on humans. Still, the infrared thermometers mentioned above are for non-humans, which means you can only use them to measure different surfaces, objects, kitchen appliances, and boiling, and freezing points.

Are infrared thermometers accurate for cooking?

Infrared thermometers are more accurate and faster than stem thermometers when it comes to cooking or deep frying. Infrared thermometers can even measure food or oil from a distance when it is hot. They hardly have a margin of error from 0.1 to 0.2

Can I take my temperature with an infrared thermometer?

Remember that infrared thermometers are designed for industrial applications and unsuitable for domestic use or measuring human body temperature. It has much higher accuracy and temperature rate, which cannot accurately keep the body temperature reading.

Are infrared thermometers any good?

Infrared thermometers deliver fast, precise, and accurate temperatures. They are easy to use and not technical. Moreover, advanced features of infrared thermometers include adjustable emissivity, which gives even more flawless temperature readings.

Hello!! My name is Adalynn I love to eat, travel, and eat some more! I am married to the man of my dreams and have a beautiful little girl whose smiles can brighten anyone’s day!