The Best Thermometers for Taking Temperatures

While thermometers are not tools that we use daily, when you do need one, you want to ensure it is simple to use and accurate. This is because a fever can be your first indication that something is not right with your health. However, there are many different thermometers out there, and finding the right one for you can be tricky. From traditional digital thermometers and non-contact infrared models to basal and rectal thermometers, you want to be sure your thermometer is top-notch when you need it most. We made this guide to simplify your search by showcasing the best thermometers on the market today.

What to Look for in a Thermometer

Consider these factors during your search:

• Accuracy: No matter what fancy features a thermometer advertises, if it gives inaccurate temperature readings, it is not worth much. Thus, accuracy should be the number one factor to consider before selecting a new thermometer. Be sure to read product reviews to ensure that user experience matches the degree of accuracy that a brand advertises.
• Ease of Use: A thermometer that can give you readings quickly and simply can save you a lot of stress, especially when taking the temperature of a baby or small child. Non-contact infrared thermometers are incredibly simple to use and require little more than pointing the device and pressing a button. If you are looking for a device with memory functionality, be sure this can be easily accessed and navigated without any complicated instructions.
• Design: A thermometer’s design will also come into play. Rectal and basal thermometers should feature a flexible, waterproof tip to ensure they are comfortable to use and easy to clean. Non-contact thermometers also benefit from a smart design. Look for a model that is durably constructed to ensure it will last for years to come.

Best Non-Contact: LPOW Forehead Thermometer

For those seeking a thermometer that is quick and easy to use, the LPOW Forehead Thermometer is as good as it gets. It is suitable for all ages and features a large, easy-to-read LCD screen with color-coded temperature results that will display orange or red if you are warmer than normal or running a fever. However, the best thing about this forehead thermometer is the highly accurate temperature measurements and memory function, which allows you to store 50 sets of measurement data so that you can keep track of an improving or worsening fever.

Best Value: Boncare Thermometer for Adults

Budget-friendly thermometers often suffer from inaccurate temperature readings and faulty construction, but the Boncare Thermometer for Adults is a cost-saving option that hits the mark. Featuring a waterproof silicone tip and stainless steel probe, this thermometer can be used for oral, rectal, or underarm use and provides results in about 10 seconds, which is faster than a majority of budget thermometers. Thankfully, the temperature readings are very accurate, and the Boncare also stores your last temperature reading, so you can track your fever’s progress throughout the day.

Best Budget Non-Contact: EasyEast Touchless Infrared Thermometer

For those seeking a high-quality non-contact thermometer on a budget, the EasyEast Touchless Infrared Thermometer is your best choice. This product features great battery-saving functionality to help you get the most out of two AAA batteries by automatically shutting down after 10 seconds of non-use. It’s also very simple to use and allows you to take in-ear temperatures for children while still offering highly accurate infrared forehead temperature readings that only take seconds. Factor in the sleek LCD display and 40-measurement memory storage, and you can see why this infrared thermometer is worth every penny of its budget price tag.

Best for Babies: FridaBaby Quick-Read Digital Rectal Thermometer

The FridaBaby Quick-Read Digital Rectal Thermometer features a unique design that protects your baby’s tush by ensuring you do not insert the thermometer too far when taking their temperature rectally. While this alone makes this thermometer an amazing option for parents, the large backlit display and relatively fast 10-second reading time also put this product above similarly-priced options. This thermometer also features a 10-reading memory function and even comes with a cute case to keep it clean while it’s being stored, making it the best all-around rectal thermometer for babies.

Best for Family Planning: Easy@Home Digital Basal Thermometer

Rounding out our list is the Easy@Home Digital Basal Thermometer, which measures basal body temperature (BBT) to 1/100th of a degree precision, making it one of the most accurate options at its price point. While the temperature readings themselves take slightly longer than some alternative products, this basal thermometer scores points for its waterproof and flexible tip and app functionality. Temperature readings can be easily submitted to the Premom App to record your BBT for an accurate way to track ovulation so that you are ready and prepared during your times of peak fertility.