When it comes to getting perfectly cooked meat, having a reliable thermometer is essential. Two of the most popular options on the market right now are Thermoworks and Meater wireless meat thermometers.
But how do you choose between these two? Here is an in-depth comparison of Thermoworks and Meater thermometers, including pros, cons and key features to help you decide which is best for your needs.
A Brief Comparison Table
| Feature | Thermoworks | Meater |
| Temperature Reading Speed | Very fast (2-3 seconds) | Slower (10-15 seconds) |
| Probe Design | Thin folding probe | Thick fixed probe |
| Wireless Capability | Some models offer Bluetooth connectivity | Fully wireless with long range |
| Temperature Range | Up to 572°F depending on model | Up to 572°F |
| Smart Features | None beyond basic reading | App with guidance and monitoring |
| Price Range | $35-$99 | $99 for 1 probe, $209 for 4 probes |
| Best For | Quick temp checks, speed and reliability | Hands-off monitoring, WiFi convenience |
Overview Of Thermoworks And Meater
Thermoworks is a company that specializes in high-quality probe thermometers for cooking. Their most popular models include the Thermapen and Thermapop. These are instant-read thermometers that provide very fast and accurate temperature readings.
Meater, on the other hand, makes innovative wireless smart thermometers. Their MEATER+ model is a wireless probe that monitors internal meat temperature during cooking and sends updates to your smartphone. It’s completely wireless and can monitor temperatures up to 165 feet away.
So while Thermoworks focuses on super fast and precise instant-read thermometers, Meater offers more of a hands-off, high-tech monitoring approach. Let’s look at the key differences in more detail:
Key Feature Comparison
Here are some of the main features and capabilities of Thermoworks Vs. Meater thermometers:
- Read speed – Thermoworks thermometers provide near instant temperature readings, while the Meater readings take 10-15 seconds.
- Probe design – Thermoworks uses thin, folding probes while Meater has a thicker, fixed probe design.
- Wireless connectivity – Meater is completely wireless, while most Thermoworks require a wire. However, Thermoworks does offer Bluetooth models.
- Temperature range – Meater probes can withstand higher temperatures up to 572°F. Thermapen has a max temp of 572°F while Thermapop maxes out at 302°F.
- Smart features – Meater has an app with lots of built-in meat profiles and monitoring/alert capabilities. Thermoworks lacks smart capabilities beyond basic temperature reading.
- Price – Thermoworks models range from $35-$99 while Meater costs $99 for a single probe and $209 for the 4-probe pack.
Also Read: Is Thermopro Tempspike Better Than Meater Plus?
Thermoworks Pros And Cons
Here are the main advantages and disadvantages of choosing Thermoworks thermometers:
Pros:
- Very fast temperature response time
- Highly accurate and reliable readings
- Durable folding probe design
- Wide range of models at different price points
- Great for quick checking during cooking
Cons:
- Lack of wireless or smart features
- Lower max temperatures on some models
- Shorter warranty periods
- Probes can be fragile if dropped
Meater Pros And Cons
And here are the key benefits and downsides of Meater thermometers:
Pros:
- Completely wireless with long connectivity range
- Monitor temps even when away from grill/oven
- App provides guidance based on meat profiles
- Maintains accuracy across wide temp range
- Modern, sleek design
Cons:
- Slower temperature response time
- Potential for wireless connection issues
- Probe design makes it trickier for thick cuts
- Higher price point
- App can have some glitches
Also watch the video!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
For most people, MEATER offers the best overall package as a smart wireless probe thermometer. The wireless capability and app integration sets it apart from most other probes. However, instant-read thermometers like those from Thermoworks remain superior for quickly checking temps.
No, ThermoPro and ThermoWorks are completely different brands. ThermoWorks is the premium brand known for its highly accurate Thermapen thermometer. ThermoPro makes more affordable instant read and wireless thermometers.
Yes, the MEATER probe is highly accurate to within ±1.8°F. It uses two sensors to monitor internal and ambient temps and helps compensate for any variation. Tests confirm it provides reliable accuracy for different meats and doneness levels.
Thermapen is priced higher than most instant read thermometers because it’s engineered to an extremely high standard. The quick 2-3 second reads, durable folding probe, waterproof design and calibration for accuracy justify the higher cost for serious cooks.
The Verdict
In the end, choosing between Thermoworks and Meater comes down to your needs and budget. MEATER is great for tech-savvy users who want remote monitoring capabilities. However, Thermoworks remains the leader in fast, precise instant-read thermometers.
For quick checks while actively cooking, Thermoworks thermometers like the Thermapen and Thermapop can’t be beaten. But if you want a wireless “set it and forget it” thermometer and don’t mind slower readings, MEATER has a very appealing high-tech design. It also works well for larger roasts and thick cuts where an instant read thermometer is trickier to use.
Hopefully this detailed overview gives you a better sense of the key differences between these two popular brands. And remember, no matter which thermometer you choose, using a high-quality probe for monitoring meat temperatures is one of the best ways to guarantee perfect results every time. Get the right thermometer for your needs and enjoy total confidence at your next cookout or holiday meal!