Instant Read vs Dial Thermometers: Which Is The Best Cooking Tool

Brief History of Dial Thermometers

Dial thermometers have been a staple in kitchens and on grills or smokers for over a century. Developed in the early 1900s, these thermometers use a bimetallic strip to measure temperature. As the strip bends in response to temperature changes, it moves a needle on a dial, indicating the temperature.

While dial thermometers have been reliable tools in the kitchen, they come with limitations. Their accuracy and speed are often not up to the standards required for precise cooking. Frequent calibration is also necessary to maintain their accuracy, which can be cumbersome.

The Emergence of Digital Thermometers In Cooking

The advent of digital thermometers in the mid-20th century revolutionized temperature measurement in cooking. Using sensors like thermistors or thermocouples, digital thermometers provide accurate and quick readings displayed on a digital screen. This innovation has made them indispensable in modern kitchens.

Instant-read digital thermometers have become especially popular among chefs and home cooks. Their ability to deliver rapid and precise temperature readings has transformed cooking practices, ensuring that dishes are cooked to perfection every time.

Just go to any BBQ competition and you’ll see chefs and pitmasters using all forms of digital thermometers.

Reason Three: Ease of Use

Instant-read digital thermometers are designed for ease of use. The digital display offers a clear and straightforward reading, which is particularly useful in the fast-paced environment of a kitchen. Many digital thermometers also feature backlit displays, making them easy to read even in low-light conditions.

Newer models also offer wireless or Bluetooth capabilities and connect to your smartphone, which makes it much easier if you are smoking a brisket or roasting in the oven.

Dial thermometers, with their needle and dial, can be more challenging to read accurately, especially in dim lighting or for those with vision impairments. The simplicity and clarity of digital displays make instant-read thermometers a more user-friendly option in the kitchen.

Reason Four: Durability and Maintenance

Digital thermometers are generally more durable and require less maintenance than dial thermometers. Many are designed to be water-resistant or waterproof, making them easier to clean and more resilient to the spills and splashes common in a kitchen.

Some can handle higher heat, like grilling steak or chicken, and be left in the meat while it is cooking.

Dial thermometers, on the other hand, have more mechanical parts that can wear out over time. The bimetallic strip and dial mechanism are susceptible to degradation, necessitating regular calibration and potentially more frequent replacements. The robust design of digital thermometers ensures they remain reliable tools in the kitchen for longer periods.

Reason Five: Versatility and Features

Instant-read digital thermometers offer a range of features that enhance their functionality in the kitchen. Some models come with programmable alarms, allowing users to set specific temperature targets. Others have hold functions that lock the temperature reading, making it easier to record and monitor.

Dial thermometers typically lack these advanced features, limiting their versatility. The additional functionalities of digital thermometers, such as programmable settings and easy-to-read displays, make them more adaptable to various cooking needs and preferences.

Types of Digital Thermometers

There are different styles of thermometers to select from. Each with a specific purpose. You may end up with various models depending on how often and what styles of cuisine you cook.

Instant Read Digital Thermometers

Instant read thermometers are meant to measure one point of the meat within seconds so you can determine when the item being cooked is done. They are not meant to be left in the meat. The speed also allows them to take the temperature in multiple points quickly so you don’t impact the cooking process by waiting 30 or more seconds like a dial thermometer.

Examples include the Thermoworks Thermapen One and the Fireboard Spark.

Leave-In Digital Thermometers

Leave-in digital thermometers are meant to measure the ongoing temperature of your item being cooked. Often they have multiple probes that can measure various points of the roast or the temperature of your oven or grill. Commonly a leave-in thermometer will have Bluetooth or WIFI access to broadcast the temperature to a remote or an application on your phone. Apps can save the data for each cooking session.

Examples include the Thermoworks Smoke Unit or the Fireboard, which have up to 4 probes and measure both the meat and the chamber cooking temperature.

IR Based Thermometers

IR stands for Infrared Thermometer. IR thermometers are intended to measure the surface temperature of an object. These are best for measuring the temperature of things like flattop griddles, or pizza stones when making pizza. Some models can double as both an instant-read or an IR.

Examples include the Thermoworks Industrial IR thermometer, which we use every time we make a pizza. Avoid buying anything that is labeled “instant read dial thermometer” as they are not comparable to a digital version and still take a long time to come to proper temp.

Meater and Fireboard are two additional companies making great thermometers, but have downfalls. When comparing brands be sure to look at the range as well as the guarantees that are provided.

Get Cooking

When it comes to choosing an instant-read thermometer versus a dial thermometer for cooking, the digital option is clearly superior. The precision, speed, and ease of use offered by instant read thermometers make them an essential tool for any kitchen.

While dial thermometers have their place in history, the advancements in digital technology have elevated the standards of temperature measurement in cooking.

An instant-read digital thermometer ensures quick, accurate, and reliable readings, helping chefs and home cooks achieve culinary perfection every time. Investing in a digital thermometer is a smart choice for anyone serious about cooking, providing peace of mind and consistently excellent results.

Also be sure that you occasionally check the accuracy of your thermometer to see if it needs calibration.

Best Instant Read Thermometers

There are hundreds to choose from, but over the years we have come to use and trust one company for the most comprehensive products on the market. Thermoworks has more top rated products than any other company from organizations like America’s Test Kitchen.

Best Overall Instant Read Thermometer

The Thermoworks Thermapen One is our favorite overall thermometer. In addition to less than 1 second read time, the backlight function, and durability is a stand out. Available in multiple colors.

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Best Digital Thermometer Under $35

Thermoworks ThermoPop 2 reads temperature in 2 – 3 seconds and the same craftmanship of their higher priced products. Because it doesn’t have as swivel like its competitors on Amazon, it lasts longer because it’s less likely to break. Available in multiple colors.

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