Key Takeaways:
- Understanding the different types of thermometers and their specific uses can help you make an informed purchase.
- Digital thermometers offer accurate and quick temperature readings, making them a popular choice for both adults and kids.
- Customer reviews and clinical research can guide you in selecting a reliable thermometer that suits your needs.
Introduction
In today's fast-paced world, having a reliable thermometer at hand is essential for monitoring health. Whether it's for checking a fever in kids or ensuring accurate temperature readings for adults, the right thermometer can make all the difference. This article delves into the best thermometers available, their features, and how to choose the right one for your needs.
Types of Thermometers
Digital Thermometers
Digital thermometers are a staple in modern medicine. They provide quick and accurate temperature readings, often within seconds. These devices are versatile and suitable for oral, rectal, and armpit measurements. The digital display shows the temperature in either Celsius or Fahrenheit, making it easy to read.
Customer reviews often highlight the ease of use and reliability of digital thermometers. They are particularly favored for their consistency in temperature measurements. With a simple press of a button, you can measure temperature accurately, making them ideal for both home and clinical settings.
Forehead Thermometers
Forehead thermometers, also known as temporal artery thermometers, use infrared technology to measure temperature. They are non-invasive and provide quick readings by scanning the forehead. This type of thermometer is especially useful for kids who may be uncomfortable with traditional methods.
The fever alarm feature in many forehead thermometers alerts you if the temperature exceeds a certain threshold. This is particularly beneficial for parents monitoring their child's health. The ease of use and quick results make forehead thermometers a popular choice among families.
Ear Thermometers
Ear thermometers, or tympanic thermometers, measure the temperature inside the ear canal using infrared technology. They are known for their accuracy and speed, providing results in just a few seconds. These thermometers are suitable for both adults and children.
One of the key advantages of ear thermometers is their ability to provide consistent readings. They are designed to be user-friendly, with clear instructions and a digital display. However, it's important to ensure proper placement in the ear to get accurate results.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Thermometer
Accuracy and Consistency
Accuracy is paramount when it comes to temperature taking. Digital thermometers are known for their precise readings, but it's essential to follow the manufacturer's instructions for the best results. Consistency in readings is also crucial, as it helps in monitoring temperature changes over time.
Clinical research and customer reviews can provide insights into the accuracy of different thermometer models. Look for thermometers that have been tested and approved by medical professionals. This ensures that you are getting a reliable device for your health needs.
Ease of Use
A thermometer should be easy to use, especially in stressful situations like dealing with a sick child. Forehead and ear thermometers are particularly user-friendly, with simple scanning methods and quick results. Digital thermometers with a clear display and straightforward instructions are also a good choice.
Consider the design and features of the thermometer. A backlit screen can help take readings in low-light conditions. Some models also come with a fever alarm, which alerts you if the temperature is too high. These features can make temperature-taking more convenient and efficient.
Special Features to Look For
Fever Alarm
A fever alarm is a valuable feature in thermometers, especially for parents. It alerts you if the temperature exceeds a certain level, indicating a fever. This can help in early detection and prompt medical attention if needed.
Many digital and forehead thermometers come with a fever alarm. This feature is particularly useful for monitoring kids' health, as it provides an immediate indication of a potential fever. Ensure that the thermometer you choose has this feature for added peace of mind.
Memory Function
Some thermometers come with a memory function that stores previous temperature readings. This can help track temperature changes over time. It allows you to compare current readings with past ones, providing a better understanding of the person's health condition.
The memory function is especially useful for chronic conditions where regular temperature monitoring is required. Look for thermometers that can store multiple readings and display them. This feature can be a valuable addition to your health monitoring tools.

Price and Value
Budget-Friendly Options
Thermometers come in a wide range of prices, from budget-friendly models to high-end devices. Digital thermometers are generally affordable and offer good value for money. They provide accurate readings and are easy to use, making them a popular choice for many households.
When considering the price, also look at the features and reliability of the thermometer. Customer reviews can provide insights into the performance and durability of different models. Choose a thermometer that fits your budget while meeting your needs for accuracy and ease of use.
High-End Models
High-end thermometers often come with additional features such as a backlit display, fever alarm, and memory function. Forehead and ear thermometers tend to be on the pricier side but offer the convenience of quick and non-invasive readings. These models are ideal for families and those who require frequent temperature monitoring.
Investing in a high-quality thermometer can be worthwhile for long-term use. Look for models that have been clinically tested and approved by medical professionals. This ensures that you are getting a reliable and accurate device for your health needs.
Summary
Choosing the best thermometer involves considering various factors such as accuracy, ease of use, and special features. Digital thermometers are a reliable and affordable option for most households. Forehead and ear thermometers offer quick and non-invasive readings, making them ideal for kids and adults alike. By understanding the different types of thermometers and their features, you can make an informed purchase that meets your health monitoring needs.
Need help? We've done the research for you and found the Best Thermometer on Amazon.
Every day, we read hundreds of reviews and try the highest-rated products we have on our list.
Best Thermometer - Reviews
The Best

Product information
The Goodbaby Forehead Thermometer is a clinically tested device known for its speed and accuracy, making it an excellent choice for forehead temperature readings. Its infrared technology ensures reliable measurements, offering the flexibility to display results in either Celsius or Fahrenheit. This thermometer simplifies the process of monitoring your family's health.
Using the Goodbaby Thermometer is straightforward—just point it at the forehead and press a button. Its infrared sensors provide quick readings, making it particularly convenient for taking the temperatures of children, who may not sit still for long. The device's reliable ABS housing ensures durability, and its ergonomic design offers a comfortable grip, making it easy to handle even with active children.
The Goodbaby Thermometer is versatile, and suitable for all ages—from infants to adults and the elderly. Beyond forehead readings, it also measures room and object temperatures, providing multifunctional use. This makes it a practical tool for various needs around the home, enhancing its value as an essential health gadget.
Pediatricians recommend the Goodbaby Thermometer due to its clinical validation, ensuring you can trust its accuracy. It comes equipped with everything you need: the thermometer, a user manual, a quick guide, two AAA batteries, and a carrying pouch. This comprehensive kit ensures you're prepared to use the thermometer right out of the box.
Additionally, the Goodbaby Thermometer is backed by a 12-month replacement warranty from the date of purchase, along with 24/7 customer service. This support ensures any concerns or issues you encounter will be promptly addressed, providing peace of mind and confidence in your purchase.

Three colors to choose from. The same spot read within seconds will read up to 0.4F degrees off in either direction. A must-have at home for kids and adults.

Some customers mentioned that they received faulty and probably used thermometers. Others mentioned that the accuracy is questionable. Customer service needs improving.
Our thoughts - These thermometers offer quick reading and quick turnaround. This means the user can take the next measurement without waiting for a long time. We like this thermometer because it takes the temperature of other objects like foods and drinks. But it would be better if they offered a switch between the two modes (human temperature and others) instead of holding a button for more than 3 seconds to put the thermometer in "others" mode.

Very Good

Product information
Utilizing advanced infrared technology, this thermometer allows you to measure body temperature without making contact with the ear or forehead, significantly reducing the risk of cross-infection among multiple users. The measurement distance ranges from 0.4 to 1.96 inches, ensuring safe and hygienic usage.
Equipped with cutting-edge infrared technology and a high-precision sensor, this no-contact thermometer delivers instant readings within just one second. The accuracy of the temperature measurement is highly reliable, with a margin of error within ±0.4℉, ensuring you get precise results every time.
The no-touch thermometer features a large, backlit LCD screen that changes color based on the temperature reading and includes an audible alert for abnormal temperatures. It also has an auto-shutdown function to conserve battery life. With the silent mode option, you can easily take measurements in the dark without disturbing your child's sleep.
This versatile infrared thermometer can measure both body temperature and the temperature of objects or liquids, making it suitable for users of all ages. It offers a convenient switch between Celsius and Fahrenheit by pressing and holding the set button for three seconds, then using the "memo" or "mode" buttons. Additionally, the device can store up to 50 readings, allowing you to track the temperature history of your family members. The package includes one thermometer, two AAA batteries, an instruction manual, a worry-free 12-month warranty, and friendly customer service.

It's not medical quality, but it is good enough for home use. Cannot take the temperature multiple times in a row or the second temp is inaccurate. You must allow it to turn off/reset before taking a second temp. But, for the price, it's worth it for the convenience. Great to use and safe on kids rather than using the old mercury thermometer in the mouth.

Some customers mentioned that they received faulty and probably used thermometers. Others mentioned that the accuracy is questionable. Customer service needs improving.
Our Thoughts - We have checked it against an old bulb mercury thermometer on myself and on other members, and the readings are always within one or two-tenths of a degree of each other. There must have been a small batch of thermometers slipped through quality control.

Good Value

Product information
The Berrcom thermometer is a versatile device suitable for people of all ages, including adults, infants, and elders. It offers the ability to measure not only forehead temperature but also room and object temperatures. Switching between Celsius and Fahrenheit is simple and convenient, adding to its user-friendly design.
Ideal for use in various settings such as homes, nurseries, clinics, and schools, the Berrcom Non-Contact Thermometer provides instant forehead and body temperature readings without physical contact. This makes it a hygienic choice for families and institutions, ensuring accurate temperature monitoring for everyone from infants to seniors.
The Berrcom JXB-178 model is equipped with a memory function that recalls the last 32 temperature readings, allowing you to track temperature changes over time. To conserve power, the thermometer automatically shuts off after 30 seconds of inactivity, enhancing its efficiency and battery life.
Meeting medical-grade accuracy standards, the Berrcom Infrared Thermometer ensures reliable readings. For the best results, it is recommended to clean the forehead of any sweat, perspiration, or grease before measurement. The JXB-178 features a large 3-color backlit display and a fever alarm system that indicates normal, elevated, and high temperatures with corresponding colors. It also offers mute and buzzer modes, providing flexibility for different environments and user preferences.

Comfortable to use, and easy to use. Can be used in Celcius or Fahrenheit and the temperature appears within seconds.

Some customers mentioned that they received faulty thermometers. Others mentioned that accuracy is questionable.
Our Thoughts - Great for the low price since there are no-touch thermometers for a much higher price. It may not be as durable as the $50+ ones, but it works great and will be perfect for home use. Not a rectal thermometer.

Very Good

Product information
The iHealth PT3 thermometer features a built-in infrared temperature sensor that accurately measures body temperature from a distance of 1.18 inches from the center of the forehead, eliminating the need for physical contact. This non-contact approach ensures hygienic and safe temperature readings.
Equipped with an ultra-sensitive infrared sensor, the iHealth PT3 captures over 100 data points per second. Together with distance and environmental sensors, it adjusts for various factors to guarantee precise readings every time. This advanced technology ensures reliability and accuracy in all conditions.
Designed with a user-friendly single-button control, the iHealth PT3 thermometer provides a temperature reading in just one second, displayed on a large, easy-to-read LED screen. Even in complete darkness, the extra-large display ensures visibility. Upon reading the temperature, the device gently vibrates in the user's hand, eliminating the need for noisy beeps or buzzes.
Suitable for all ages, from infants and toddlers to the elderly, the iHealth PT3 is versatile and ideal for both home use and public settings like hospitals, hotels, schools, and more. The package includes the iHealth PT3 thermometer, two AAA batteries, an instruction manual, and a quick user guide, making it ready to use straight out of the box.

It uses infrared technology to take your temperature. Nice looking styling trim design. Registers readings in mere seconds.

Customer service needs improving. Some customers mentioned that they received faulty thermometers. Others mentioned that accuracy is questionable.
Our Thoughts - Another contact-free technology thermometer. This is the same model that some dental clinics use.

Good

Product information
Our thermometers are equipped with ultra-sensitive sensors and the latest smart chip technology, featuring an optimized algorithm for precise and dependable readings. This ensures exceptional performance, offering faster, more reliable, and hygienic temperature measurements without the need for physical contact.
The touchless design of this thermometer allows for accurate temperature readings without any direct contact, significantly reducing the risk of cross-infection. This feature eliminates the need for cleaning the device after each use, making it both convenient and safe for multiple users.
With an internal memory capable of storing up to 35 sets of temperature readings, you can easily monitor and track the temperature changes for yourself and your family over time. This historical data tracking is invaluable for keeping a close eye on health trends and identifying any potential issues early on.
Our thermometer is designed with user-friendly, one-button control, making it perfect for individuals of all ages, including babies, children, adults, and the elderly. Its innovative design ensures simplicity and ease of use, catering to the needs of every family member with minimal effort.
The large, clear LCD screen displays temperature readings in three different colors, indicating various temperature levels for easy interpretation. The display is easy to read both day and night, and users can switch between Fahrenheit and Celsius effortlessly. The package includes one infrared thermometer, a user manual, and two AAA batteries, along with a 12-month replacement warranty and 24/7 customer service support.

Three colors to choose from. After using the old-school under-tongue thermometer for so long this digital touchless thermometer is so much quicker and easier. It takes your temperature and seconds.

Some customers mentioned that they received faulty thermometers. Others mentioned that the temperature is inconsistent.
Our Thoughts - This is only a thermometer for the body and not anything else. Also, while it does work well pointing at the forehead, be careful where you point anywhere else on the head area to scan cause you could get wildly different readings.

Good

Product information
The advanced smart chip in our thermometer utilizes an optimized algorithm to work seamlessly with three ultra-sensitive sensors, ensuring your temperature is measured accurately and hygienically. This cutting-edge technology provides faster, safer, and more reliable results, delivering superior performance every time.
Extensive lifetime and reliability tests have demonstrated that our infrared thermometer can withstand over 1000 hours of use, proving its durability and long-term dependability. This makes it an excellent investment for continuous, accurate health monitoring.
Equipped with a hyper-precise infrared sensor, the thermometer collects over 150 data points per second, whether you are indoors or outdoors. This ensures the highest level of accuracy with every temperature reading, giving you confidence in its performance regardless of the environment.
User-friendly features include a 30-second auto power-off function to conserve battery life, a memory storage capacity that holds up to 32 measurements for quick access, and the ability to switch between object and body temperature modes. Additional conveniences include a sound toggle and a fever alert system. The package includes one infrared thermometer, two AAA batteries, and an instruction manual, ensuring you have everything you need to get started right away.

Comfortable to use, and easy to use. Can be used in Celcius or Fahrenheit and the temperature appears within seconds. So much easier than having to convince a kid to stick a thermometer in their mouth several times a day. Just take a couple of readings to make sure they're consistent and can be done in an instant while they're sleeping too.

Some customers mentioned that they received faulty thermometers. Others mentioned that accuracy is questionable.
Our Thoughts - For the price paid should be more durable. The plastic is cheap and is not well-finished. It’s OK but you have to be very close to getting an accurate reading!

FAQs
What is the most accurate type of thermometer?
Digital thermometers are known for their accuracy and consistency in temperature readings. They are suitable for oral, rectal, and armpit measurements, providing reliable results for both adults and kids.
How do I use a forehead thermometer?
Forehead thermometers use infrared technology to scan the temporal artery. Simply place the thermometer on the forehead and follow the manufacturer's instructions for accurate readings. These thermometers are non-invasive and provide quick results.
Are ear thermometers suitable for infants?
Ear thermometers can be used for infants, but it's important to ensure proper placement in the ear canal for accurate readings. Some models are specifically designed for young children and come with features to make temperature-taking easier and more reliable.
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