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The temperature of ovens is notoriously unpredictable. Hasn’t anyone ever moved into a new place and cooked a pizza only to find it burnt, even if you followed the same recipe and time increments as before? Since every oven is different, the best way to avoid cooking disasters is to buy an oven thermometer and calibrate it so you know the correct temperature.
From old-fashioned analog to more high-tech digital, today’s market offers a range of options. They usually hang from oven shelves, but some can be freestanding, and some even read ultra-hot temperatures, so you can get accurate results in the oven, as well as on the grill.
National Sanitation Foundation (NSF) certification is an important quality to look for. Since 1944, NSF has ensured companies comply with strict standards concerning material, design, performance, and safety. NSF-certified products are all among the choices we make.
Top 5 Bestseller Oven Thermometer
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It is easier and more accurate to bake, roast, or broil when you use an oven thermometer-no more guessing where the hot spots are or whether the display reflects the actual interior temperature of the oven. Make sure those chocolate chip cookies turn out crisp on the outside and gooey on the inside-just the way you intended.
Top 8 Best Oven Thermometer Wirecutter Reviews
Rubbermaid Commercial Products Stainless Steel Instant Read Oven Monitoring Thermometer
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It is hard to find a more dependable oven thermometer than this one from Rubbermaid, which is rated for commercial and home kitchens. The thermometer is made of durable stainless steel and has a shatterproof display.
It measures temperatures between 60 and 580 degrees Fahrenheit and 20 to 300 degrees Celsius. This is helpful when baking or utilizing recipes with non-standard temperatures.
As well as being a workhorse, the Rubbermaid Instant Read also offers the flexibility of standing on its base or hanging in your oven. Through the oven door, the oversized face allows easy reading of the temperature.
Due to its wide temperature range, this model can also be used in toaster ovens, grills, smokers, and any heat-based food appliance. Additionally, it measures the temperature instantly and requires no batteries.
Pros
- Good readability
- Durable stainless steel construction
- No need for battery
Cons
- Small base
- Readings sometimes fluctuate
Taylor Precision Products Classic Series Large Dial Oven Thermometer
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Taylor Precision Products has manufactured kitchen measurement tools for nearly 170 years, so you can trust the brand’s classical thermometer to keep you on track when you next make some soufflés.
With its large dial, it features an extra-large colorful dial with clearly marked zones for warming, baking, and roasting. This thermometer measures temperatures between 100 and 600 degrees Fahrenheit, as well as up to 350 degrees Celsius.
The design of this model is important. This stainless steel clock can be oriented for both side and front readings. It can either be hung or placed on an oven rack, depending on how you want to use it. Due to its stable bottom, it will not tip over.
Pros
- Easy to read
- Warming, roasting, and baking zone marks
- Stainless steel construction
Cons
- Not dishwasher safe
- Not an instant-read temperature
- Gets hot after use
Winco 3-Inch Dial Oven Thermometer with Hook and Panel Base
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With the Winco, you get an oven thermometer that is easy to read. The large display has clear Fahrenheit markings that change from black to red at 350 degrees.
Rather than having precise Celsius settings, there are marks for “Hold,” “Bake,” and “Roast,” as well as the FDA’s HACCP food safety guidelines for holding and cooling hot foods printed right on the face.
Placing the Winco is easy because it can be attached via a built-in hook or a standing panel. Stainless steel construction ensures durability, and the affordable price point makes it an attractive option. This heater can withstand temperatures between 50°F and 500°F.
Pros
- Easy to read
- Affordable
- Stainless steel
Cons
- No Celsius marks
- Fewer features
KT THERMO Large 3-Inch Dial Oven Thermometer
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KT Thermo oven thermometers are also great for grilling because they have a sweet spot range of 100 to 600 degrees Fahrenheit. Temperatures range from cold enough to blistering hot (600 degrees Fahrenheit), allowing for easy calibration. Even when reading through an oven door, the face is uncluttered with large numbers.
With a stainless steel body that comes with a rotating hook that can be attached to an oven rack, as well as a base if you prefer to keep it freestanding.
Temperatures are not indicated in Celsius, but the device has a color wheel that shows “Warm,” “Bake/Roast,” and “Broil” settings. It is an attractive, compact option for those searching for a tool that can be used both for grilling and oven cooking.
Pros
- Accurate
- Easy to clean
- Resists high temperatures
Cons
- No Celsius marks
- Does not set on oven rack easily
AcuRite Stainless Steel Oven Thermometer
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Another high-heat winner, the Acurite easily transitions between outdoor grilling and oven roasting. Although it doesn’t begin to register until 150 degrees Fahrenheit, it reaches 600 degrees Fahrenheit for those fiery barbecues. Even though it is not advertised, the face has markings on the interior for temperatures of 70 and 350 degrees Celsius.
In addition, the display has a bright white background with large black numbers, which makes it easy to read. The glass can also withstand high temperatures without any issues. A stainless steel construction makes it easy to clean, and it can hang from an integrated hook or stand on a base.
Pros
- Clear markings
- Consistent temperatures
- Handles high heat
Cons
- Starts registering at 150 Fahrenheit
Cooper-Atkins Stainless Steel Bi-Metal Oven Thermometer
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When it comes to oven thermometers, the Cooper-Atkins is a mighty giant. Right on the face are both Celsius and Fahrenheit readings, as well as FDA HACCP reference guidelines for cooking.
A bright white background with dark numbers and a red graduated color wheel clearly indicates a temperature range of 50 to 300 degrees Celsius and 100 to 600 degrees Fahrenheit.
The affordable option does present a slightly cluttered user interface with so much information in such a small package, but with a built-in hanger and stable base, it is a model with a lot of value.
Pros
- Compact
- Wide temperature range
Cons
- Difficult to read
Admetior Kitchen Oven Thermometer
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The Admetior was our top pick when we first wrote this guide several years ago, and we still like it. The simple model reported temperatures with impressive accuracy and responded quickly to heat changes. Although the face is small, thanks to clear, bold print and distinguishable tick marks, it’s easy to read and easy to hang on the oven rack.
When a temperature gauge starts at 50°F, you can see the needle move even at room temperature, but it only reads up to 500°F.
Pros
- Easy to read
- Accurate temperature readings
- Hangs well on oven rack
Cons
- Only reaches 500°F
CDN DOT2 ProAccurate Oven Thermometer
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We found that the CDN thermometer had the most accurate reading of all the thermometers we tested. The range wasn’t great at 150° to 550°F (although bonus points for the Celsius marks).
Although the face is small and dark, it is difficult to read, yet the base is a bit bulky, so it hangs awkwardly between the racks, blocking access to anything stored below.
Pros
- Very accurate
Cons
- Hard to read
- Overly large base
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What to Think When Choosing Oven Thermometer
Readability
This is the single most important consideration when selecting a model. Clear zone markings, large numerals, and bright white backgrounds enable you to see the temperature, even through the oven door. No thermometer is useful if you can’t read the display clearly.
Temperature Unit and Range
This is a preference in some aspects. Fahrenheit temperature readings are adequate for most cooks, but if you consult a recipe that has less traditional temperature requirements, Celsius marks may be helpful. What matters most here is the temperature range.
Ideally, you want a thermometer that measures between 50 degrees and 500 degrees Fahrenheit. For high heat cooking, grilling, or baking, however, you may want one that measures up to 600 degrees Fahrenheit.
Placement
In this case, there are only two options. Thermometers for ovens come with hooks to hang from oven racks, or they come with a base to stand on. In some cases, they are both integrated. A thermometer that offers the flexibility of freestanding or hanging is the best choice for an oven.
Why Trust The Spruce Eats?
In college, food writer Carrie Honaker worked at restaurants, including La Madeleine in Atlanta, where she relied on oven thermometers for a successful morning bake. Between her experience as a restaurateur and her passion for cooking, she has calibrated many ovens.
When she is switching between the grill and the oven, she loves her Taylor Classic Oven Thermometer for its readability and versatility. Numerous publications have featured her work, including Bon Appetit, Allrecipes, and Wine Enthusiast.
Oven Thermometer FAQs
How Do You Use An Oven Thermometer?
Place your thermometer on the same rack (hanging or freestanding) where your food will be placed in the oven. Preheat the oven to the desired temperature. Let your oven continue to heat until the cooking temperature is reached based on your thermometer reading if the temperature of the oven is lower than the one you set. Place your food in the oven once the thermometer reaches your desired temperature. Continually monitor the temperature and adjust as necessary.
How Do You Calibrate An Oven Thermometer?
Cooking consistently might be the most important step you can take. Preheat the oven to 200 degrees Fahrenheit, and place the thermometer inside. When the oven has finished preheating, check the thermometer and record the temperature difference.
Repeat this process five times, increasing the oven temperature each time by 50 degrees Fahrenheit. Note the differences at each interval. Add the variants together and divide by 6. This will tell you the average temperature that fluctuates in your oven. The next time you preheat your oven, use this calibration to adjust the temperature.
How Long Can You Leave An Oven Thermometer In The Oven?
As long as you want is the simple answer. Temperature gauges for ovens are made of durable materials that can withstand high temperatures.
Where Do You Place An Oven Thermometer?
The best way to get an accurate reading is to place it as close to the food as possible.
Can You Use An Oven Thermometer In A Grill?
However, you must ensure your thermometer’s range is between 100 degrees Fahrenheit and not higher than 550-600 degrees Fahrenheit. With this method, you can achieve accuracy even if you are smoking food or only having about half of your grill fired up.
How Do You Clean An Oven Thermometer?
The thermometer will come into contact with oil sprays, baking powder, and other bits of cooking debris during its lifetime. Keeping the surfaces clean will prevent readability problems.
Ensure that any glass in the packaging is waterproof before using it to ensure you’re getting the most accurate readings. Next, make sure the thermometer is cool before using it. Wash with warm water and mild detergent, scrub with a soft washcloth, and then rinse and dry right away.
When dealing with particularly tough stains, and the above does not work, make a paste of baking soda and water, and then spread it over the face of your thermometer. After it has been on for about 15 minutes, wipe it clean with a soft cloth. It must be dried immediately. Baking soda can remove virtually any kitchen stain.
Final Verdict
Rubbermaid Instant Read Thermometer is a top choice for mechanized models due to its versatile placement options and wide temperature range. Compact size without sacrificing accuracy is a top priority. Go for the Cooper Atkins (view at Amazon); it has HACCP guidance, as well as Fahrenheit and Celsius marks, in a diminutive stainless steel package.
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