Introduction

Last Updated: 9/17/2024 – I will keep this blog updated whenever I have new info to share. 

Are wireless thermometers truly a game-changer for BBQ enthusiasts, or is sticking with a trusty wired system still the way to go?

Wireless thermometers have become increasingly popular in the BBQ world, offering a solution for anyone tired of dealing with thermometer wires. I’ve relied on my wired ThermoWorks Signals for years, and other than having to deal with the wires, I’ve never had a good reason to switch. But when a friend recently asked me to recommend a wireless thermometer, I realized I hadn’t explored these newer options in detail. This led me on a quest to find out whether any wireless thermometer could match or even replace the reliability of my wired system.

In this blog, I’ll be testing six wireless thermometers — Chef iQ – iQ Sense, Combustion Inc Predictive Thermometer, Meater 2 Plus, ThermoPro TempSpike Plus, ThermoWorks RFX, and Typhur Sync Dual—putting them through their paces with a focus on long cooks, especially brisket. My goal is to help you weigh the pros and cons of each model, so you can decide which one will best suit your needs.

Join me as I walk you through each thermometer’s performance, sharing the highs, lows, and insights I’ve gathered from weeks of testing.

Background

I’ve been using a wired thermometer, the ThermoWorks Signals, for years and have been completely satisfied with it. I never had any intention of looking into wireless thermometers—until a friend texted me asking which wireless thermometer I would recommend. At that time, I had only used a couple of wireless thermometers and wasn’t impressed with the results. However, that question got me thinking: could any of the wireless thermometers out there be good enough to replace my wired thermometer?

This curiosity led me to reach out to all the major wireless thermometer companies to see if they would send me a unit for testing. My goal was to do a side-by-side comparison with all their competitors. I’m not accepting any payment or sponsorship from these companies for this review. I simply wanted to see if any of these wireless thermometers could meet my needs and potentially recommend them to others.

After working with these wireless thermometers for a few weeks, I can say this: there’s no perfect wireless thermometer. You’ll have to assess what you need in a wireless thermometer and find one that best matches your cooking style. I’ve done my best to cover every aspect of these thermometers in this article to help you make that decision.

My Wired Thermometer Experience

For brisket cooks, I use the ThermoWorks Signals wired thermometer. I typically place one probe in the flat and another in the point to monitor temperatures throughout the cook. The downside is having to remove the wires when wrapping the brisket and when transferring it from the smoker to my food warmer or Cambro for events. Managing the wires can also be a bit of a hassle. I use rubber bands to organize them, but sometimes the wires get pinched or malfunction, requiring replacements. While these issues are minor, they’re still an inconvenience.

Other than dealing with the wires, wired thermometers have all the features I need.

Wireless Thermometers for Grilling

I typically don’t use wired thermometers for steak or hot-and-fast grilling. For those, I prefer using an instant-read thermometer—specifically the ThermoWorks Thermapen—because I’m actively watching the grill and can quickly check temperatures. That said, after a few weeks of grilling with wireless thermometers, I’ve come around to the idea of using them. They allow me to monitor temperatures throughout the cook without having to poke the meat as much, which has been convenient.

My Perspective

I approach these tests as someone who smokes a lot of brisket and uses wired thermometers. I’m looking for a wireless thermometer that could convince me to make the switch and be confident enough to recommend it to my friends. At this point, I probably know more about wireless thermometers than anyone else in my circle, and I’ve spent a lot of time testing and comparing them.

This article will walk you through the pros, cons, recommendations, and the issues I encountered while using these thermometers. Every opinion I share here is based on my own usage—I haven’t read anyone else’s reviews or been influenced by any external factors. Everything here is from my personal experience, and I hope it helps you find the right thermometer for your needs.

Wireless Thermometers Tested

Here’s a list of all the probes we have tested so far with some pros, cons, and situations they great for.

Brand	Model	Pros	Cons	Great for
Chef iQ	iQ Sense	– Thinnest diameter at 4.8mm – WiFi enabled	– Short probe won’t reach the middle of brisket unless inserted from the top – No cook history on website, only in app – Can only view one temp reading in app, not each sensor	Great for small cuts of meat like steaks and chicken, or brisket if you’re okay inserting it from the top. WiFi makes it convenient for monitoring while away.
Combustion Inc	Predictive Thermometer	– Easy-to-read screen – Longest and thinnest probe- Lowest minimum insertion depth – Sensor layout spans the whole probe length, not just near the tip – Displays temps from all sensors – Good for smaller cuts due to low minimum insertion depth	– WiFi requires a second device – No cook history in app or cloud- Requires multiple cables to charge (for display and probe case) – Can get expensive as you add more probes (each additional probe costs $150)	Great for grilling or larger cuts of meat if WiFi is not required. Accurate probe sensor layout and display makes it ideal for precision cooking, and also good for smaller cuts of meat.
Meater	Meater 2 Plus	– 1000°F handle temp rating – Long probe – Stainless steel handle	– No WiFi, unless you use second phone or buy Pro XL for $350 – Frequently disconnected with no way to recover other than removing the probe from meat and adding back to hub – Short range – No temp display on hub – Connectivity issues make it unreliable for any type of cook	Best for grilling if you are comfortable keeping your device nearby due to the short range. However, frequent connectivity issues make it unreliable for most cooking scenarios.
ThermoPro	TempSpike Plus	– Relatively inexpensive for 2 probes at $150 – Screen has both internal and ambient temps	– Short probe won’t reach the middle of brisket unless inserted from the top	Great for budget-conscious users, especially for grilling and long smoking sessions. The screen display makes it a versatile and affordable option.
ThermoWorks	RFX	– More accurate ambient temp because of separate probe – Doesn’t rely on Bluetooth, providing more stable connection – WiFi enabled – Compatible with Billows fan to help regulate smoker temps – Hub doesn’t have to be next to smoker – Longest probe battery life at up to 65 hours	– Longest minimum insertion depth at 80mm, making it unideal for smaller cuts – No temp display on hub – Larger diameter than some competitors (5.4mm)	Great for both smoking and grilling if you don’t mind using your phone to check temps. Best for long cooks where you want stable connections and Billows fan control.
Typhur	Sync Dual	– Crisp, clear screen – WiFi enabled	– Largest diameter at 6.1mm – No cook history on website, only in app – Had charging issues with the second probe	Great for both grilling and smoking if you don’t mind the thicker probe. Solid choice for visual clarity, temperature alerts, and ease of use.

The Perfect Wireless Thermometer

After testing multiple wireless thermometers, I’ve come to realize that none of them fully meet all my needs. However, I’ve put together a list of features that, if combined, would create my perfect wireless thermometer:

• Affordable: While I don’t expect it to be cheap, the price should be reasonable given the features offered.
• Reliable Connectivity: I want it to have stable Wi-Fi so I can monitor temps from anywhere, without needing to rely on Bluetooth or a secondary device.
• Probe Battery Life: At least 30 hours to cover long brisket cooks, including resting and serving.
• Hub Battery Life: The hub should also last at least 30 hours without being plugged in.
• Temperature Display on Hub: I want the hub to have a clear, easy-to-read display so I can quickly glance at the temps without needing to open the app on my phone.
• Accurate Ambient Temperature: A separate, wireless ambient probe would be ideal to get accurate readings away from the meat.
• Cook History: I want cook history stored both in the app and on a website for easy access and reference later.
• High/Low Temperature Alerts: Customizable alerts for both internal and ambient temperatures.
• High Max Temperature: The ability to withstand up to 1000°F for direct grilling or searing.
• Long Probe: The probe needs to be long enough to reach the center of large cuts of meat like brisket, especially when inserted from the side – around 150mm would be great.
• Thin Diameter: A small diameter to avoid creating large, unsightly holes in the meat – around 4.8mm or less.
• Low Minimum Insertion Depth: A minimal insertion requirement to protect the probe’s internal components while still being usable with smaller cuts of meat. Around 50mm would be ideal.
• Strong Obstructed Range: The Bluetooth or Wi-Fi range should be robust, even when obstructed, so I can monitor temps from a distance.
• Compatibility with a Fan System: I’d love for the thermometer to integrate with a fan system (like the ThermoWorks Billows) to help regulate smoker temperatures.
• Minimal Meat Impact: A probe design that leaves as small a hole as possible, keeping the integrity of the meat intact.
• Magnetic Hub: A magnetic hub would be convenient to stick onto the smoker or grill during the cook.
• Adjustable Data Logging: The option to adjust the logging intervals—such as setting a 1-second interval for grilling and a longer interval for slow smoking—would be ideal.
• Reliable Customer Support: I want a company that stands behind their product with excellent customer support options, including chat and phone support.
• No Need to Plug in Hub: The hub should be able to function throughout the cook without needing to be plugged in, making it truly wireless.

While no wireless thermometer currently on the market checks all of these boxes, this list represents what I’m ultimately looking for in the ideal product.

Overall Recommendations

Now that you know none of them are perfect, here are my overall recommendations from what is currently on the market.

	Of all the thermometers I’ve tested, the ThermoWorks RFX comes the closest to being the perfect wireless thermometer. It has reliable Wi-Fi, strong battery life, and works seamlessly with the Billows fan system. However, it falls short in a few areas—there’s no built-in temperature display on the hub, the minimum insertion depth is longer than I’d like for smaller cuts of meat, and the ambient probe still requires a wire. Despite these drawbacks, it’s the best option so far, especially for smoking meats. If you are only grilling meats and don’t want to use your phone to get the temp, then Combustion is the top choice.
	The Combustion Inc probe is a solid runner-up. While it has excellent design, multiple sensors, and great accuracy, it lacks native Wi-Fi and cook history, and the costs can quickly add up as you purchase additional probes and accessories.  It is currently my top choice for hot and fast grilling because it has an easy to read temp display on the hub.
	Third is the Typhur Sync Dual, which has a great screen and Wi-Fi but has the largest diameter at 6.1mm, leaving a larger hole in the meat. I also had charging issues with the second probe during my last brisket cook, which knocks it down a bit in my rankings. That could have been a fluke, but I didn’t have similar issues with any other probe.
	The Chef iQ is a great little probe with Wi-Fi, but its small size means it likely won’t reach the center of a big piece of meat like brisket.
	The ThermoPro TempSpike is the most affordable option, but it’s short and lacks Wi-Fi, making it less suitable for large cuts of meat or long-distance monitoring.
	At this time, I can’t fully recommend Meater 2 Plus due to the connectivity issues I experienced and the lack of Wi-Fi, which makes it unreliable for consistent cooking.  If you want to go with Meater, then I recommend the Meater Pro XL, because it has WiFi and may solve the short range/connectivity issues I faced.

With that in mind, let’s dive into all the aspects of each of these probes and break down the details to help you find the best fit for your needs.

Price

When getting started with a wireless meat thermometer system, most brands offer an entry-level option with a single probe, which is ideal for monitoring one cut of meat or testing out a new system without a large investment.

• Combustion Inc: Their single-probe option is priced at $150. While this entry-level price is competitive, the cost increases significantly with more probes ($150 each) or optional features like the booster and display (discussed below).
• Chef iQ: Starting at $130 for one probe.
• Meater 2 Plus: Priced at $140 for one probe.
• ThermoWorks RFX: The 1-probe kit with a gateway is priced at $160. Additional probes are $90, and the gateway is available separately for $80.
• ThermoPro TempSpike Plus: Offers 2 probes for $140, and a single-probe version is available for less.
• Typhur Sync Dual: Priced at $200 for a 2-probe setup.

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Expanding Your System with Multiple Probes

For those looking to expand their system and monitor more cuts of meat simultaneously, here are the prices for 4-probe configurations:

• Combustion Inc: A unique configuration is required if you want 4 probes with the booster and display. You can purchase the 1-probe kit with booster and display for $230, then buy 3 additional probes at $150 each, bringing the total cost to $680. Without the booster, the obstructed range is limited to 10 feet, and there is no WiFi functionality. In my experience, the display is essential for hot-and-fast grilling to monitor temperatures quickly without needing to rely on your phone. However, for low-and-slow cooking, the phone can serve as a sufficient monitoring tool.
• Chef iQ, Meater 2 Plus, and ThermoWorks RFX: All offer 4-probe kits at $350.
• ThermoPro TempSpike Plus and Typhur Sync Dual: Both are priced at $280 for a 4-probe system.

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Unique Features

ThermoWorks RFX allows up to 50 probes to be connected to a single gateway, so you only need to purchase the gateway once. Other brands require a hub or a slot for each probe, which can increase costs when expanding your system.

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Disclaimer: These are the latest non-sale prices as of the publishing of this blog. Always check the manufacturers’ websites for the latest sales and discounts.

For exclusive discounts, Patreon subscribers can access special offers on many of these probes. Visit bkyhd.com/patreon for details, and check out the latest discount codes at bkyhd.com/discounts.

Brand	Model	Price	Price for 4 Probes	Shipping
Chef iQ	iQ Sense	$130 – 1 Probe $180 – 2 Probes $220 – 3 Probes	$350	Pay under $200 Free with Amazon Prime
Combustion Inc	Predictive Thermometer	$150 1 Probe $180 1 Probe + Booster $200 1 Probe + Display $230 1 Probe + Booster + Display $350 2 Probes + Display $400 2 Probes + Boosters + Display $50 Booster $100 Display	$680 – 1 probe + booster + display + 3 probes $600 (probes only, no display, no booster)	$7-8 US $20 International Varies by exact location
Meater	Meater 2 Plus	$140 – 1 Probe $350 – 4 Probes with Pro XL	$350	Free
ThermoPro	TempSpike Plus	$140 – 2 Probes	$350	Free Available at Amazon
ThermoWorks	RFX	$160 – 1 Probe Kit $240 – 2 Probe Kit $350 – 4 Probe Kit $90 1 Probe $80 Gateway	$280	$7
Typhur	Sync Dual	$200 2 Probes $280 4 Probes	$280	Free in US

Connectivity and Range

When it comes to wireless thermometers, the choice between WiFi and Bluetooth comes down to your specific cooking needs. If you’re primarily grilling and will be right next to your grill for short cooks, you don’t need WiFi—any of the Bluetooth-enabled probes will work just fine. However, if you’re doing longer cooks, such as smoking brisket, and want the freedom to leave your house during the cook, WiFi becomes essential to ensure you can monitor the temperature from anywhere.

WiFi Support

The units with built-in WiFi are:

• Chef iQ iQ Sense
• Typhur Sync Dual
• ThermoWorks RFX

Combustion Inc and Meater offer a WiFi option, but it requires a second device, such as a phone or tablet, to act as a bridge. This additional complexity can be inconvenient if you don’t have a spare device available or don’t want to deal with setup. Meater XL Pro includes WiFi but comes at a price of $350.

Bluetooth Support and Range

For Bluetooth-only devices or those where WiFi requires extra setup, the key consideration is both unobstructed and obstructed range—how far the signal can travel when the probe is inside a closed grill or smoker.

• Chef iQ iQ Sense: 200 feet (61 meters) unobstructed and 20 feet (6 meters) obstructed.
• Combustion Inc: Without the booster, it offers 60 feet (20 meters) unobstructed and 10 feet (3 meters) obstructed. With the booster, this increases to 330 feet (100 meters) unobstructed and 50 feet (15 meters) obstructed. With both the booster and display, it can reach up to 1000 feet (305 meters) unobstructed.
• Meater 2 Plus: 250 feet (76 meters) unobstructed, but Meater does not disclose the obstructed range. In my experience, the Meater often disconnected from the app during testing, leading to unreliable temperature readings.
• ThermoWorks RFX: The 433 MHz sub-GHz technology allows for 1500 feet (457 meters) unobstructed and 560 feet (171 meters) obstructed, and the RFX gateway can be located anywhere within range (like your house or garage) rather than needing to be near the smoker.
• ThermoPro TempSpike Plus: 460 feet (140 meters) unobstructed and 40 feet (12 meters) obstructed. Though it sometimes showed disconnection, I was still able to retrieve temperatures whenever I opened the app, and the display consistently worked.
• Typhur Sync Dual: 400 feet (122 meters) unobstructed and 65 feet (20 meters) obstructed, making it a reliable mid-range option.

My Recommendation

If you’re sticking to grilling and staying close to your grill, any of these Bluetooth thermometers will do the job. But if you’re working on longer cooks and want the freedom to leave the house, WiFi connectivity is a must. Chef iQ, Typhur Sync Dual, and ThermoWorks RFX provide the most reliable solutions for remote monitoring.

Brand	Model	WiFi?	Bluetooth Version	Unobstructed Range(Not in Appliance)	Obstructed Range(In Appliance)
Chef iQ	iQ Sense	Yes	5.1	200ft / 61m	20 ft / 6m
Combustion Inc	Predictive Thermometer	Requires second device	5.4	60ft / 20m without Booster 330ft / 100m with Booster 1000ft / 305m with Booster and Display	10ft / 3m without Booster 50ft / 100m with Booster 670ft / 204m with Booster and Display
Meater	Meater 2 Plus	Requires second device or Pro XL	5.2	250ft / 76m	Not disclosed by Meater
ThermoPro	TempSpike Plus	No	5.2	460ft / 140m	40ft / 12m
ThermoWorks	RFX	Yes	Uses 433mhz sub-GHz RFX wireless Tech	1500ft / 457m	560ft / 171m
Typhur	Sync Dual	Yes	5.4	400 feet / 122m	65ft / 20m

Battery Life

Another very important feature of wireless thermometers is battery life, especially if you’re doing long cooks like smoking meat, which can last up to 30 hours when you include cooking, resting, and serving time. It’s crucial to consider not only the probe battery life but also the hub battery life, as both can affect the longevity of your monitoring.

Most WiFi-enabled hubs last 24 hours or less because they require more power to maintain the WiFi connection. This means you’ll need to plug the hub into a power source to keep it running for the entire cook. Without being plugged in, WiFi-enabled hubs will die during longer cooks, cutting off your ability to monitor temperatures remotely. For hubs that don’t have WiFi, the battery life tends to be longer, and you may not need to plug them in during your cook.

In practice, all of the probes I tested lasted well beyond 24 hours—in fact, they lasted beyond 30 hours without issue. However, the hubs disconnected as expected when their battery life ran out, so if you’re doing a long cook, make sure to plug in the hub to maintain connectivity if it has WiFi.

I did encounter an issue with the Typhur Sync Dual probe. When I went to use it at 9:00 AM, one of the probes (probe number two) was dead, even though it had been in the charging unit overnight. It wouldn’t connect at first, so I had to remove it from the brisket and plug it back in multiple times to get it to start charging again. Aside from that one issue, I had no other battery-related problems with the Typhur or any of the other probes, provided the hub was plugged in.

When comparing this to wired thermometers, you don’t have to worry about the battery life of the probes at all. You still need to consider the hub’s battery life, but this is equivalent to what you get with wireless systems. The main difference with wired systems is that you’ll never have to worry about the probes themselves dying during a long cook.

Brand	Model	Probe Battery Life	Probe Recharge Time	Hub Battery Life	Hub Recharge Time
Chef iQ	iQ Sense	40 hours	45 mins	15 hours
Combustion Inc	Predictive Thermometer	28-30 hours	20-30 minutes	1 Month	90 mins
Meater	Meater 2 Plus	24 hours	15 mins for 12 hours 30 mins for 24 hours	AAA battery lasts for 2 years	n/a – Runs on AAA batteries
ThermoPro	TempSpike Plus	36+ hours	4 hours	3 Months	2 hours
ThermoWorks	RFX	5-65 hours (Depending on update rate)	10 mins for 80% 20 mins for 100%	24 hours	4 hours
Typhur	Sync Dual	24 hours at 21250 hours at 77	45 mins	24 hours	3 hours

Probe Design

Overall Length

The overall length of the probe includes both the probe and handle combined, but this isn’t a crucial factor when choosing a wireless thermometer. The key aspects are more related to the probe length, diameter, and handle design.

Probe Length

When smoking large cuts of meat, you need a probe long enough to reach the center of the meat for an accurate reading. ThermoWorks RFX, Typhur Sync Dual, and Combustion Inc all have sufficiently long probes for reaching the center of briskets or pork butts. Meater also has a decent length, but due to frequent disconnect issues, I can’t fully recommend it.

The shorter probes, such as Chef iQ and TempSpike Plus, may not reach the center of larger cuts. You can insert them from the top of the meat, and while I was initially concerned about ruining the bark by sticking the probe through the fat cap, I didn’t experience any issues in practice. If you prefer, you can insert the probe through the side to avoid any potential juice or fat leaks that could affect the bark.

Diameter

The diameter of the probe determines how much of a hole it leaves in the meat. A smaller diameter is preferable because it leaves less of an impact. The smallest probes in this comparison are Combustion Inc and Chef iQ at 4.8mm, while the largest is Typhur Sync Dual at 6.1mm. The others, like ThermoWorks RFX and Meater, fall within the 5mm range.

With larger cuts of meat like brisket, the hole left behind isn’t very noticeable. However, for steaks or smaller cuts, the hole left by a wider probe, like Typhur, can be unappetizing.

Handle

The design and material of the handle play an important role, especially if you’re dealing with high temperatures. Ceramic handles are typically rated for temperatures around 600°F, while stainless steel handles can withstand up to 1000°F.

If you frequently cook over direct heat, Meater and ThermoWorks RFX, with their stainless steel handles, are better suited for high-heat grilling. I personally found that Combustion Inc, Typhur, and Meater have the most practical handle designs, as they make it easy to grab and remove the probe from the meat without it sinking in as the meat tenderizes. With shorter probes like Chef iQ and TempSpike Plus, I actually lost the probe inside the brisket and had to fish it out with my fingers.

Most ceramic used in these probes, like Zirconia, is strong and durable. In my experience, I accidentally dropped the Typhur from a height of about three or four feet onto concrete, and it didn’t break. While I wouldn’t recommend testing this intentionally, they all seem to be fairly durable.

One thing I noticed with ThermoWorks RFX is that its stainless steel handle, although sturdy, lacks a proper grip. When pulling it out of meat with greasy hands, it was difficult to get a hold of without using a paper towel. Probes with more distinct handle designs are much easier to remove.

Tip

Most of the probe tips are about the same size as the probe diameter, but the ThermoWorks RFX has a graduated tip that makes it easier to insert into the meat. Combustion Inc also has a fairly easy-to-insert tip, while Typhur was the hardest to insert due to its larger 6.1mm diameter.

Minimum Insertion Depth

The minimum insertion depth is the distance you need to insert the probe to ensure the hot ambient temperatures don’t damage the internal components, such as the glue or solder inside the probe.

(You can see the Minimum Insertion Depth lines in the image above – it’s the green line with a dot)

Combustion Inc has the shortest minimum insertion depth at 2.1in / 53.3mm, making it ideal for smaller cuts of meat. On the other hand, ThermoWorks RFX has one of the longest insertion depths at 3.15in / 80mm, so you need to be extra careful to fully insert the probe into smaller cuts to avoid damaging it.

Brand	Model	Overall Length	Probe Length	Diameter	Minimum Insertion Depth	Material
Chef iQ	iQ Sense	4.1in / 104.1mm	2.4in / 61mm	.19in / 4.8mm	2.4in / 61mm	Stainless Steel Probe Ceramic Handle
Combustion Inc	Predictive Thermometer	5.1in / 130mm	3.8 in / 96.5mm	.19in / 4.8mm	2.1in / 53.3mm	Stainless Steel Probe Alumina Ceramic Handle
Meater	Meater 2 Plus	5.04in / 128mm	3.74 in / 95mm	.2in / 5.1mm	2.6in / 66mm	Stainless Steel Probe Zirconia Ceramic Band
ThermoPro	TempSpike Plus	4.2in / 106.8mm	2.61 in / 66.3mm	.21 / 5.3mm	2.6in / 66mm	Stainless Steel Ceramic
ThermoWorks	RFX	4.69in / 119mm	3.39in / 86mm	.21in / 5.3mm	3.15in / 80mm Recommended: 3.39in / 86mm	Stainless Steel Probe and Handle Zirconia Ceramic Ring
Typhur	Sync Dual	5.02in / 127.5mm	3.5 in / 89mm	.24in / 6.1mm	2.6in / 66mm	Stainless Steel Probe Zirconia Ceramic Handle

Temp Sensors

Wireless probes come with varying numbers of sensors to help provide a more accurate temperature reading inside your meat. Most probes have multiple sensors—typically four or five—which are positioned either along the probe or as separate internal and ambient sensors. While the number of sensors may seem like a key differentiator, in practice, whether a probe has four or five sensors won’t significantly affect the cooking experience, especially for smoking meat, where gradual temperature changes are the norm.

However, it’s worth noting that the ThermoPro TempSpike Plus only has one internal temperature sensor and one ambient sensor, which means it offers fewer data points compared to the others. This could make a difference if you’re grilling, where having more sensor data along the length of the probe can help ensure you’re monitoring the core temperature accurately.

At the other end of the spectrum, Combustion Inc includes 8 sensors—the highest of any model reviewed—which might be useful for those who prefer a more granular look at the temperature changes within the meat. But for most cooking tasks, the difference between four or eight sensors is minimal unless you’re looking for absolute precision during direct grilling.

Temp Reading in the App

The way temperature data is presented in the app also varies. Some apps only show a single, averaged temperature, while others allow you to view readings from each sensor separately:

• Chef iQ iQ Sense, ThermoWorks RFX, and ThermoPro TempSpike Plus provide a single temperature reading, summing up the information from all sensors.
• Combustion Inc, Meater 2 Plus, and Typhur Sync Dual allow you to view individual sensor readings in the app, which can be beneficial for direct grilling where knowing the exact temperature at different points along the probe can help with more precise cooking.

For most users, having a single, averaged temperature is perfectly adequate, especially when smoking meat or slow-cooking, where the focus is on long, steady temperature control. However, for grilling or situations where more precise data is required, the ability to check individual sensor readings may provide added value.

Brand	Model	Sensors	Temp Readout in App?
Chef iQ	iQ Sense	4 internal, 1 ambient	1 Temp Reading
Combustion Inc	Predictive Thermometer	8 sensors	Each Sensor Temp Reading
Meater	Meater 2 Plus	5 internal, 1 ambient	Each Sensor Temp Reading
ThermoPro	TempSpike Plus	1 internal, 1 ambient	1 Temp Reading
ThermoWorks	RFX	4 sensors	1 Temp Reading
Typhur	Sync Dual	5 internal, 1 ambient	Each Sensor Temp Reading

Hub Design

Each of these probes comes with a hub that plays a crucial role in displaying and managing temperature readings. When you’re doing hot and fast grilling, having the temperature visible on the hub itself can make a significant difference. Personally, I prefer not to open my phone, load an app, and check the temperature when grilling steaks. It’s much more convenient to simply glance at the hub, especially when I’m in the middle of grilling. For smoking meat, it’s less of a concern since it’s a slower process, and checking the app every now and then is more acceptable. However, even for longer cooks, it’s nice to be able to quickly check the temperature on the hub without needing to go into the app.

Hubs with Displays

• Combustion Inc, ThermoPro TempSpike Plus, and Typhur Sync Dual all have hubs with screens that display temperature readings. For grilling, this is a big advantage. With Combustion Inc having a 2.8″ screen, I can easily see the temperature from a distance. When I’m grilling a steak, this is the option I’ll go for because I don’t need to rely on my phone to know what’s happening.
• ThermoPro TempSpike Plus has a screen that shows both internal and ambient temperatures, which is useful for quick reference during grilling.
• Typhur Sync Dual also includes a 2.4″ screen with temperature readings, providing similar ease of use.

For smoking meat, I often go with the ThermoWorks RFX. Even though it doesn’t have a screen on the hub, I can still monitor the temperature through the app or use their website to get real-time data. Plus, I expect that ThermoWorks might come out with a hub display in the future.

Magnetic Features

When placing the hub near the smoker or on the grill’s hopper, I prefer resting it on a metal surface. If the hub isn’t magnetic, it’s likely to slide off when opening the hopper or making adjustments. The Meater 2 Plus, ThermoPro and ThermoWorks RFX hubs are magnetic, giving them a practical advantage. They stay securely in place on metal surfaces, reducing the chances of accidental drops or movement during a cook.

Magnetic Probe Case

Some systems, like Meater 2 Plus and ThermoWorks RFX, also come with a magnetic probe case, which is another benefit for those who like to keep their equipment neatly attached to the grill or smoker. This way, the case itself won’t slide off during the cooking process. However, the Combustion Inc case, while useful, is not magnetic, so it won’t offer the same convenience as Meater or ThermoWorks in this regard.

Brand	Model	Hub Display	Magnetic Hub	Magnetic Probe Case
Chef iQ	iQ Sense	Audio, No screen	No	n/a
Combustion Inc	Predictive Thermometer	2.8″ screen with temp reading	n/a	No
Meater	Meater 2 Plus	No Screen	n/a	Yes
ThermoPro	TempSpike Plus	Screen with both temps	Yes	n/a
ThermoWorks	RFX	No Screen	Yes	Yes
Typhur	Sync Dual	2.4″ Screen with temp reading	No	n/a

Internal Temp

The internal temperature range refers to the maximum temperature that a probe can read while cooking your meat. For most wireless probes, the maximum range is around 212°F (100°C), which is more than sufficient for any type of meat. For instance, when smoking brisket, you’re typically aiming for a max temperature of around 203°F (95°C), and anything beyond that is likely too high. Given this, the internal temperature range for all the probes reviewed here is adequate, and there isn’t a significant differentiating factor in this category.

Temperature Accuracy

When it comes to temperature accuracy, the slight variations between probes don’t make much of a difference for smoking meat, where being off by a degree or two isn’t going to affect the overall cook. However, for direct grilling, accuracy can be more important, especially when cooking steaks or other cuts where a few degrees can mean the difference between medium and medium-rare.

• Combustion Inc offers the highest accuracy with ±0.4°F (±0.2°C) for internal temperatures, which makes it one of the most precise options. However, unless you’re really concerned about precision down to a degree, this may not be a dealbreaker for other probes.
• ThermoPro TempSpike Plus has an accuracy of ±1.8°F (±1°C) within its temperature range, which may be less ideal for grilling, where higher precision matters. It’s worth noting that a 60-second data logging interval could result in slower updates, which could affect grilling outcomes.

Data Logging Interval

The data logging interval refers to how frequently the probe records and updates the temperature. This feature can be particularly important for direct grilling, where rapid changes in temperature matter more.

• ThermoWorks RFX stands out because it allows you to configure the data logging interval. If you’re grilling, you can set it to 1-second intervals for quick updates, and if you’re smoking a large cut, you can stretch the interval up to 60 seconds to conserve battery life.
• Typhur Sync Dual has a 2-second logging interval, making it a good second option, followed by Chef iQ iQ Sense and Combustion Inc, both at 5-second intervals.
• ThermoPro TempSpike Plus and likely Meater 2 Plus (though unspecified) have a 60-second interval, which can be too long for direct grilling but perfectly fine for slower cooking methods like smoking.

Summary

For smoking large cuts of meat, any of these probes will work fine. You don’t need extreme accuracy or a fast data logging interval for smoking, where slow temperature changes are the norm.

However, for direct grilling, the ThermoWorks RFX stands out as the best option due to its configurable logging interval, allowing you to set a 1-second refresh time for quick, real-time updates. The ThermoPro TempSpike Plus, with its 60-second interval and ±1.8°F accuracy, would be the least ideal option for grilling, as the delay and lower precision could impact your cook when a couple of degrees matter for steaks or similar cuts.

Brand	Model	Internal Temp Range	Temp Accuracy	Temp Data Logging Interval
Chef iQ	iQ Sense	32-212F0-100C	1F/.5C	5 seconds
Combustion Inc	Predictive Thermometer	-5-220°F Lower Half / -5-600°F Upper Half -20-104°C Lower Half / -20-315°C Upper Half	Internal: .4F/.2C Ambient: 1F/.5C (at 140F/60C)	5 seconds
Meater	Meater 2 Plus	221F 105C	.5F.25C	Unspecified
ThermoPro	TempSpike Plus	14-212F -10-100C	1.8F/1.0C from 14-212F	60 seconds
ThermoWorks	RFX	14-212F -10-100C	0.9F 0.5C	1-60 seconds (configurable)
Typhur	Sync Dual	32-212F 0-100C	Internal: .5F from 104-202 Ambient: 9F/5C	2 Seconds

Ambient Temp

Ambient temperature refers to the temperature inside your grill or smoker—the air around your meat. Most wireless probes have an ambient temperature sensor built into the handle of the probe, but this reading can sometimes be skewed by about 50 degrees due to its proximity to the cold meat.

ThermoWorks RFX addresses this issue by including a separate ambient temperature probe, which can be placed further from the meat for a more accurate reading. This setup is particularly useful for users of analog smokers, where tracking ambient temperature is more critical. However, this solution involves using a wired ambient probe, which may seem counterproductive for those who prefer a fully wireless setup. I personally think it would be great if ThermoWorks developed a wireless ambient probe in the future, as it would eliminate the need for any wires while maintaining accuracy.

For digital smokers like pellet or gravity-fed smokers, precise ambient temperature readings are less of a concern because the smoker maintains the temperature automatically. In these cases, the probe’s ambient temperature reading does not need to be as accurate.

When smoking meat, temperatures usually fall between 200°F to 275°F (93°C to 135°C), which all of these probes can handle without issue. In these conditions, ambient temperature accuracy matters more for analog smokers, but all of these probes are capable of withstanding the typical temperature range required for smoking.

In summary, if you’re using a digital smoker, the ambient temperature sensor on these probes is less critical. If you’re using an analog smoker, a system like ThermoWorks RFX with a separate ambient probe may provide a more accurate temperature reading, though it does come with the tradeoff of using a wired component. A wireless ambient probe would be a great addition to remove this tradeoff in the future.

Max Ambient Temperature Limits

Another important factor to consider is the maximum temperature that the handle of each probe can withstand. This is especially relevant for high-heat applications, such as grilling or searing steaks. Below is a summary of the maximum ambient temperatures each probe can handle:

• Meater 2 Plus and ThermoWorks RFX can handle up to 1000°F (537°C).
• Combustion Inc is rated up to 600°F (315°C).
• Chef iQ can withstand 752°F (400°C) for up to 3 minutes.
• Typhur Sync Dual can handle 572°F (300°C) for 20 minutes or 707°F (375°C) for 2 minutes.
• ThermoPro TempSpike Plus has a rating of 1050°F (566°C). While this isn’t documented officially, ThermoPro customer service confirmed that it can handle this temperature for up to 2 hours.

Based on my experience, none of these probes had issues when used in high-heat situations like direct flame grilling or searing, so the temperature limits provided by the manufacturers may be conservative. It’s important to ensure that the probe is inserted into the meat up to the minimum insertion line to avoid damaging the internal components.

Combustion Inc has a unique design with different temperature ratings for the upper and lower parts of the probe, allowing for more flexibility in how it’s placed in the meat. Their probe also has the shortest minimum insertion line, which can be an advantage in certain setups.

While these probes can withstand high temperatures, it’s important to avoid leaving them at their maximum temperature limits for extended periods. For instance, Chef iQ can handle 752°F (400°C) for 3 minutes, while Typhur Sync Dual can manage 572°F (300°C) for 20 minutes or 707°F (375°C) for 2 minutes. Monitoring these limits ensures the probe performs well without risking damage.

Brand	Model	Ambient Temp Range	Max Ambient Temp
Chef iQ	iQ Sense	32-752F 0-400C	752F for 3 mins 400C for 3 mins
Combustion Inc	Predictive Thermometer	600F 315C	Don’t exceed 600F / 315C
Meater	Meater 2 Plus	1000F 538C	1000F 538C
ThermoPro	TempSpike Plus	14-572F 10-300C	1050F / 566C for 2 hours
ThermoWorks	RFX	1000F 538C	1000F / 538C for “several mins”
Typhur	Sync Dual	32-707F 0-375C	572F / 300C for 20 mins707F / 375C for 2 mins

Device Compatibility

Some wireless thermometers offer compatibility with additional devices that can enhance your cooking experience. One notable example is the ThermoWorks RFX, which is compatible with the ThermoWorks Billows. The Billows is a fan system that attaches to your smoker to help regulate the temperature automatically.

How the ThermoWorks RFX and Billows Work Together

The ThermoWorks Billows connects to the RFX gateway, allowing you to control the fan through the app. You place an ambient probe at the grill grate, set your desired temperature in the app, and the RFX gateway communicates with the Billows to control the fan. The system will adjust the fan’s activity to maintain your target temperature, starting, stopping, or pulsing the fan as needed. It’s designed to keep the temperature within 25 degrees above or below your set point, providing stable cooking conditions.

While the Weber Smokey Mountain (WSM) maintains temperature well on its own, I’ve found the Billows helps improve airflow, keeping the temperature more consistent, especially on days with low outdoor airflow. It also helps bring the temperature up faster when conditions aren’t ideal. So while it’s not necessary, the Billows can be a useful tool for maintaining even temperatures over long cooks.

Compatibility with Other Probes

Currently, none of the other thermometers—Chef iQ, Combustion Inc, Meater, ThermoPro, or Typhur—are compatible with the Billows or any similar devices. This makes the ThermoWorks RFX the only option if you’re looking to integrate a thermometer with an automatic fan system like the Billows.

Summary

While the Billows isn’t a necessity for most smokers like the WSM, it can provide added control over airflow and help maintain consistent temperatures, especially under less-than-ideal conditions. If you already own or are considering purchasing a Billows, the ThermoWorks RFX offers the unique advantage of compatibility with this system, which none of the other probes can currently match.

Cook History

One important feature to consider when selecting a wireless thermometer is the ability to access and review your previous cooks. This can be especially useful if you want to track details such as when the stall happened during a brisket cook or how your ambient temperature stabilized throughout the process. Having access to this information helps refine your future cooks.

Web-Based Cook History

ThermoWorks RFX stands out as the only thermometer that offers cook history on the web. You can access your cook data through their portal at cloud.thermoworks.com, which is a significant advantage if you prefer monitoring your cook from a computer. Personally, I find this feature very useful. When I’m at my desk working during the day, I like to have the ThermoWorks web portal up on one of my monitors so I can easily track the progress of my cook without needing to check my phone constantly.

App-Based Cook History

All of the other thermometers provide app-based cook history, allowing you to review your previous cooks directly from your phone. Chef iQ, Meater 2 Plus, ThermoPro TempSpike Plus, and Typhur Sync Dual all support this feature. Not only do these apps display a graph of your cook data, but they also let you scroll through the entire timeline with your finger, showing the exact temperature at specific times during the cook. This allows for easy reference and deeper analysis of your cook’s progression.

However, a notable exception is Combustion Inc, which also offers a graph but does not allow you to scroll through the temperatures to see the exact readings at specific times. This could be a limitation if you prefer more detailed analysis of your cook data.

No Cook History

It’s also worth mentioning that Combustion Inc does not provide any form of cook history—either through the app or the web—which might be a drawback for those who rely on past data to refine their cooking techniques.

Summary

ThermoWorks provides a unique advantage with both web-based and app-based cook history, offering flexibility in how you monitor and review your cooks. This gives you the ability to check progress from multiple devices, such as a computer or mobile phone. Chef iQ, Meater 2 Plus, ThermoPro TempSpike Plus, and Typhur Sync Dual all offer app-based cook history, with the added benefit of being able to scroll through the timeline to see exact temperatures at specific times. In contrast, Combustion Inc lacks both cook history and the ability to scroll through the graph data, which could be a limitation depending on your needs.

Alerts

One crucial feature to consider when choosing a wireless thermometer is temperature alerts. These notifications let you know when your food or grill hits certain temperature thresholds, so you don’t have to constantly monitor the app. For example, when cooking a brisket, you might want to get alerted when the internal temperature hits 195°F, allowing you to start probing the meat to check for doneness. It’s also helpful to know if the ambient temperature in your smoker or grill drops below or rises above a certain range, so you can adjust the heat as needed.

Which Models Offer Alerts?

All of the thermometers except Combustion Inc offer high/low temperature alerts. This feature is crucial for keeping track of cooking progress without needing to open the app constantly. Alerts can be set for both internal meat temperature and ambient temperature (the air temperature in the smoker or grill).

• Chef iQ, ThermoWorks RFX, ThermoPro TempSpike Plus, and Typhur Sync Dual all offer unlimited alerts for both high and low temperatures.
• Meater 2 Plus allows alerts, but it’s limited to four alerts per cook, which may be a limitation if you need more precise notifications.

Combustion Inc Limitations

One notable absence is Combustion Inc, which does not offer any high/low temperature alerts. This may be a downside for users who rely on such notifications to manage their cooks effectively, especially for longer or more precise grilling sessions.

Summary

If alerts are important to your cooking process, you’ll find them in Chef iQ, ThermoWorks RFX, ThermoPro TempSpike Plus, and Typhur Sync Dual, all of which offer robust alerting capabilities without limitations. Meater 2 Plus is slightly more restrictive with a limit of four alerts per cook, which could be a drawback for some users. Combustion Inc, unfortunately, does not offer this feature, so if getting real-time notifications is important to you, this might be something to consider.

Brand	Model	High/Low Temp Alerts?
Chef iQ	iQ Sense	Yes
Combustion Inc	Predictive Thermometer	No
Meater	Meater 2 Plus	Yes – Limited to 4
ThermoPro	TempSpike Plus	Yes
ThermoWorks	RFX	Yes
Typhur	Sync Dual	Yes

Appliance Safety

When selecting a wireless thermometer, it’s important to consider how it holds up in various cooking environments, such as sous vide, dishwashers, deep fryers, smokers, and ovens. Understanding the safety limitations of each thermometer in these conditions can help ensure that you don’t inadvertently damage your device during use.

Sous Vide Safety

All of the thermometers except Combustion Inc are officially rated as sous vide safe. While Combustion Inc is not officially supported for sous vide cooking, it should still work. However, since it’s not tested or certified for this use, it may be best to proceed with caution when using it in a sous vide setup.

Dishwasher Safe and Cleaning Recommendations

All of the probes are rated as dishwasher safe, but hand washing is recommended by all manufacturers. In practice, I find it quick and easy to simply clean the probes with a sponge and some soap. I don’t even bother with the dishwasher since the probes are small, and hand cleaning prolongs their lifespan. Chef iQ also notes that their probes are top-rack safe in the dishwasher, but I recommend hand washing for the best results and longevity.

Smoker and Grill Safety

All of the thermometers are smoker and grill safe, which is their primary use case. These probes are designed to handle the high ambient temperatures found in smokers and grills. Just be mindful to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for the maximum temperature limits, particularly for the probes themselves.

Deep Fryer Safety

All of the thermometers can be used in deep fryers, but there’s an important consideration here. Deep fryer oil temperatures can exceed 325°F (162°C), which is often higher than the allowed maximum temperature for the probe itself. While the handle of the probe is fine at these higher temperatures, you’ll need to ensure that the entire probe is fully submerged in the meat to avoid exposing it to the high heat of the oil. Exposing the probe to the oil directly can damage it, so make sure the minimum insertion depth is fully reached when deep frying.

Oven Safety

All of the thermometers are oven safe, making them suitable for a variety of cooking methods, including roasting or baking. The key here is to ensure that the probe is inserted properly to avoid exposure to ambient heat that could exceed its temperature rating.

Summary

• Sous vide safe: All except Combustion Inc (not officially supported).
• Dishwasher safe: All are safe, but hand washing is recommended by manufacturers and is quicker and better for durability.
• Smoker and grill safe: All are designed for use in smokers and grills, so this is their core function.
• Deep fryer safe: All are safe, but ensure the probe is fully submerged in the meat to avoid direct contact with high-temperature oil.
• Oven safe: All are safe, but ensure proper insertion to protect the probe from overheating.

In summary, all of these thermometers are designed for use in smokers and grills, and they perform well in most other cooking environments too. When using higher-heat methods such as deep frying or oven cooking, ensure proper probe insertion to avoid damage. For cleaning, I recommend hand washing the probes to prolong their life, as it’s quick and easy to do.

Brand	Model	Sous Vide Safe	Dishwasher Safe	Deep Fryer Safe	Oven Safe
Chef iQ	iQ Sense	Yes	Top Rack Safe, Recommend hand clean	Yes	Yes
Combustion Inc	Predictive Thermometer	Not officially supported, but should work	Yes	Yes	Yes
Meater	Meater 2 Plus	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
ThermoPro	TempSpike Plus	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
ThermoWorks	RFX	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Typhur	Sync Dual	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes

Certifications

When selecting a wireless thermometer, it’s important to consider whether the device has any certifications that guarantee safety, quality, or performance standards. Certifications can offer reassurance that the device has met certain criteria for food safety or accuracy.

NSF Approval

ThermoWorks RFX and ThermoPro TempSpike Plus are both NSF approved, which is a significant certification in the food and beverage industry.

What does NSF approved mean?
The NSF (National Sanitation Foundation) certification ensures that the product meets strict standards for public health and safety. Specifically, NSF approval means that the device has been tested to comply with requirements for materials, design, construction, and performance. NSF-approved products are safe for use with food and are easy to clean, reducing the risk of contamination. This certification is widely respected and ensures that a thermometer is suitable for professional or commercial kitchens, where safety and cleanliness are paramount.

If you are someone who prioritizes food safety or frequently cooks for larger groups, opting for a NSF-certified thermometer can provide peace of mind that your device meets high industry standards.

Calibration Certificates

For those who value accuracy in temperature readings, ThermoWorks and Meater 2 Plus include calibration certificates with their devices. These certificates guarantee that the probe has been tested for accuracy before leaving the factory. The calibration certificate provides official documentation that the thermometer meets the accuracy standards claimed by the manufacturer.

Having a calibration certificate is useful if you need to be certain that your device is measuring temperatures precisely, whether you’re cooking delicate meats or using the thermometer for commercial purposes.

Summary of Certifications

• NSF approved:
  • ThermoWorks RFX
  • ThermoPro TempSpike Plus
• Calibration certificates included:
  • ThermoWorks RFX
  • Meater 2 Plus

In summary, ThermoWorks and ThermoPro stand out for their NSF approval, making them ideal for food-safe use in both home and professional environments. Meanwhile, ThermoWorks and Meater 2 Plus provide calibration certificates, ensuring accuracy right out of the box. These certifications can offer extra reassurance if you’re focused on safety and precision in your cooking process.

Brand	Model	NSF-approved	Calibration Certificate
Chef iQ	iQ Sense	No	No
Combustion Inc	Predictive Thermometer	In process	No
Meater	Meater 2 Plus	No	Yes
ThermoPro	TempSpike Plus	Yes	No
ThermoWorks	RFX	Yes	Yes
Typhur	Sync Dual	No	No

Water Resistance

Water resistance is a key consideration when selecting a thermometer, particularly if you plan to use it in environments where it may be submerged in liquids, such as sous vide or deep frying, or if you simply want the peace of mind that it will hold up during cleaning. Each thermometer has different levels of water resistance, and many come with certifications that indicate how well they can handle exposure to water.

IP Ratings and Their Meaning

Several of the thermometers are rated with IP (Ingress Protection) codes, which classify the degree of protection against solid particles and liquids. The IP rating consists of two numbers: the first digit indicates protection from solid objects (like dust), and the second digit indicates protection from liquids.

• IP67 (ThermoPro TempSpike Plus, Typhur Sync Dual): This rating means the device is dust-tight and protected against immersion in water up to 1 meter deep for up to 30 minutes. This level of water resistance is suitable for most home cooking tasks, including sous vide, where the probe is immersed in water. However, it is not rated for extreme conditions like high-pressure water or very long immersion times.
• IP68 (Combustion Inc): IP68 offers a slightly higher level of water protection than IP67, meaning the device can be submerged in water deeper than 1 meter for longer periods. This makes it ideal for more rugged cooking environments, such as sous vide, where the probe may remain submerged for extended cooking times. However, Combustion Inc is not officially supported for sous vide, so although it should be fine for this use case, it’s worth noting that it hasn’t been fully tested or certified for sous vide applications.
• IP69K (ThermoWorks RFX): This is the highest water resistance rating, indicating that the thermometer is protected against high-pressure, high-temperature water jets and steam cleaning. This makes ThermoWorks RFX not only resistant to full immersion but also suitable for environments where the device might be subjected to more rigorous cleaning or exposure to hot liquids.

Other Water Resistance Considerations

• Chef iQ iQ Sense: Although this model has water resistance, its certification is still pending, so it may not have been fully tested to the same extent as the others. However, it should be safe for typical cleaning and sous vide use.
• Meater 2 Plus: This model is water-resistant, but it lacks an official certification. While it should hold up well during cleaning and limited immersion, its durability in prolonged or extreme conditions is uncertain compared to models with IP certifications.

Practical Application

All of the thermometers are safe for cleaning, and their water resistance is sufficient for use in deep fryers and sous vide cooking. However, the IP67, IP68, and IP69K ratings provide additional assurance for more demanding environments. If you plan to fully submerge the thermometer during sous vide or clean it with high-pressure water, it may be worth considering a model with a higher IP rating.

Summary of Water Resistance

• IP67 (ThermoPro TempSpike Plus, Typhur Sync Dual): Dust-tight and protected against immersion in water up to 1 meter for 30 minutes.
• IP68 (Combustion Inc): Dust-tight and protected against deeper and longer water immersion than IP67, though not officially supported for sous vide use.
• IP69K (ThermoWorks RFX): The highest protection, resistant to high-pressure water jets and high-temperature cleaning.
• Chef iQ iQ Sense: Water-resistant, but certification is pending.
• Meater 2 Plus: Water-resistant, but no official certification.

Conclusion

All the probes are water-resistant and safe for cleaning, sous vide, and deep frying. However, if you’re planning to use the thermometer in demanding environments or need extra protection during extended submersion or high-pressure cleaning, thermometers with higher IP ratings, like ThermoWorks RFX (IP69K) or Combustion Inc (IP68), may offer more peace of mind. While Combustion Inc should be fine for sous vide use, it’s worth noting that this application is not officially supported by the manufacturer.

Brand	Model	Water Resistance
Chef iQ	iQ Sense	Yes, certification pending
Combustion Inc	Predictive Thermometer	IP68
Meater	Meater 2 Plus	Yes, no certification
ThermoPro	TempSpike Plus	IP67
ThermoWorks	RFX	IP69K
Typhur	Sync Dual	IP67

Warranty & Return Policy

When purchasing a wireless thermometer, it’s important to know the warranty and return policy in case of any defects or dissatisfaction with the product. This section outlines the warranties and return policies for each thermometer, providing transparency about your options after purchase.

Warranty

The warranty period varies across the brands, offering between 1 to 3 years of coverage. Here’s a breakdown:

• Chef iQ iQ Sense: 1-year warranty
• Combustion Inc Predictive Thermometer: 2-year warranty
• Meater 2 Plus: 1-year warranty
• ThermoWorks RFX: 1-year warranty
• ThermoPro TempSpike Plus: 3-year warranty
• Typhur Sync Dual: 3-year warranty

Longer warranties may provide additional peace of mind, especially if you anticipate frequent use. ThermoPro and Typhur stand out here with 3-year warranties, which could be an advantage for users who want extended protection for their investment.

Return Policy

All brands offer a 30-day return policy, allowing you to return the product for any reason within 30 days of purchase. This gives you the flexibility to test the product and decide if it meets your needs.

• Return period: 30 days for all brands

Summary

• 1-year warranty: Chef iQ, Meater, ThermoWorks
• 2-year warranty: Combustion Inc
• 3-year warranty: ThermoPro, Typhur
• Return period: 30 days for all brands

In summary, all the thermometers come with a 30-day return policy, which gives you time to test and return the product if needed. The warranty periods differ, with ThermoPro and Typhur offering the most extended coverage at 3 years.

Brand	Model	Warranty	Return Policy
Chef iQ	iQ Sense	1 Year	30 Days
Combustion Inc	Predictive Thermometer	2 Year	30 Days
Meater	Meater 2 Plus	1 Year	30 Days
ThermoPro	TempSpike Plus	3 Years	30 Days
ThermoWorks	RFX	1 Year	30 Days
Typhur	Sync Dual	3 Years	30 Days

Manufacturing and Design Locations

For those interested, here are the manufacturing and design locations of these thermometers. Personally, I don’t mind where a product is designed or manufactured as long as it meets my needs and works well.

Manufacturing Locations

• China: Chef iQ, ThermoWorks, ThermoPro, Typhur
• Vietnam: Combustion Inc
• Taiwan: Meater

Design Locations

• USA: Chef iQ, Combustion Inc, ThermoWorks, Typhur
• England: Meater
• Hong Kong: ThermoPro

In summary, several thermometers are manufactured in China, while others come from Vietnam and Taiwan. The design locations vary, with most being from the USA, along with England and Hong Kong.

Brand	Model	Manufacturing Location	Design Location
Chef iQ	iQ Sense	China	USA
Combustion Inc	Predictive Thermometer	Vietnam	USA
Meater	Meater 2 Plus	Taiwan	England
ThermoPro	TempSpike Plus	China	Hong Kong
ThermoWorks	RFX	China	USA
Typhur	Sync Dual	China	USA

Support

Each of the brands offers email support, but there are variations in phone, chat, and app-based options, which may influence your preference depending on how you like to interact with customer service.

Phone Support

Most brands provide phone support, allowing you to speak directly with a representative. If phone communication is important, this option is available for all brands except Combustion Inc.

Chat Support

Several brands offer live chat support through their websites and apps, which can make troubleshooting faster and more convenient. Meater 2 Plus, ThermoPro and ThermoWorks provide live chat, with Meater 2 Plus standing out for its weekend availability. For example, I was able to connect with a support representative at 11 PM on a Saturday, while ThermoWorks’ live chat is only available on weekdays.

Chef iQ iQ Sense uses Chat AI, which may not be as effective as chatting with a live person but can escalate to human support when necessary.

App-Based Support

All brands offer in-app support, meaning users can access help via links within their respective apps. Whether it’s sending an email or accessing FAQs, this feature ensures that support is just a tap away, providing a convenient solution without leaving the app.

Reddit Support for Combustion Inc

A unique aspect of Combustion Inc is the option to post questions on Reddit, where you can get help not only from the company’s support team but also from other Combustion Inc users. This peer-to-peer support can be valuable, as fellow users often share their own experiences and solutions, adding a community-driven element to the support process.

Summary

Meater 2 Plus stands out for its live chat support available on weekends, while ThermoWorks offers reliable live chat during weekdays. If you prefer app-based support, all brands provide this functionality, making it easy to contact support directly from the app. Combustion Inc’s Reddit option adds a unique advantage, allowing you to tap into a community of users for help and advice. While Chef iQ’s Chat AI may not be as effective as live chat, it still offers a pathway to human support when needed.

Brand	Model	Support
Chef iQ	iQ Sense	Email, Phone, Chat AI, App
Combustion Inc	Predictive Thermometer	Email, Reddit, App
Meater	Meater 2 Plus	Email, Phone, Chat, App
ThermoPro	TempSpike Plus	Email, Phone, App, Reddit, Chat
ThermoWorks	RFX	Email, Phone, Chat, App
Typhur	Sync Dual	Email, Phone, App

Closing Thoughts and Recommendations

When I first started this deep dive into wireless thermometers, I was highly skeptical. My experience with wired thermometers like the ThermoWorks Signals had been reliable, and I knew they would work without any of the issues I’d encountered before with wireless models. But after using these wireless thermometers for a couple of months, I can see their value. It’s been incredibly convenient not having to deal with the hassle of wires and just being able to leave the probes in the brisket for the entire cook. With wired thermometers, I have to remove the wire when wrapping or moving the meat from the smoker to the warmer to the Cambro, so it’s nice to be free of that.

However, that doesn’t mean wireless thermometers come without their own set of wires. For example, with the ThermoWorks RFX, I still need a wire for the ambient probe, and all the hubs still need to be charged as I smoke. That said, you can plug the ThermoWorks RFX hub into your house and leave it plugged in during the cook, which reduces the worry about battery life.

As I’ve used these wireless thermometers, I’ve become less concerned about battery and connectivity issues. If you keep the hub plugged in and remember to charge the probes beforehand, these problems essentially disappear. While no wireless thermometer is perfect, I’ve found that the ThermoWorks RFX comes the closest to what I want in a wireless thermometer. Combustion Inc is a close second, but I really wish it had native WiFi support. Typhur is another solid option, but its 6.1mm diameter and the charging issue I encountered with the second probe bumped it down my list a bit.

Both the Chef iQ and ThermoPro TempSpike are great probes, but they’re too short for my application of smoking large cuts of meat. They’re excellent for smaller cuts but don’t fit my specific use case. The Meater 2 Plus, unfortunately, didn’t have the connectivity or reliability that I need in a wireless thermometer.

So, can any of these wireless thermometers replace my wired ThermoWorks Signals? After all my testing, I think the answer is yes. Right now, I’m torn between the ThermoWorks RFX, Combustion Inc, and Typhur. If Combustion Inc adds WiFi and lowers their prices, that would be a game-changer. If ThermoWorks adds a temp display and reduces the minimum insertion depth, it would be nearly perfect. And if Typhur could slim down the diameter, it would be an excellent option as well.

I hope this analysis helps you determine which wireless thermometer will work best for you.

Sponsorship/Affiliate Note

We are not accepting any paid sponsorships for wireless thermometers to ensure our evaluations are as unbiased as possible. Each of the wireless thermometer companies mentioned in this article sent us the units for free to test, and they are fully aware of this comparison.

• No Paid Sponsorships: This ensures we provide unbiased reviews.
• Free Test Units: Each company provided us with units at no cost for testing.
• Affiliate Partnerships: We are affiliates with most of these companies and Amazon. If you purchase through our links, we may earn a small commission.
• Discount Codes for Patreon Subscribers: Exclusive discount codes for many thermometers are available to our Patreon subscribers. These codes are kept behind a paywall to avoid being leaked to coupon websites.
• Other Thermometers: Some thermometers may not be included below because they either haven’t sent us a unit or refused to do so without sponsorship. If you think any thermometers are missing, please leave a comment below.