Instant Read Meat Thermometer

Instant read meat thermometers are a popular alternative to 'leave-in' models which can either be wired or wireless. The popular Taylor Weekend Warrior is one example of a low-cost instant read thermometer that retails for under $15 in most kitchen and home stores, although this style can go up to almost $100 for an advanced model like the Super-Fast Thermapan.

The idea behind this style of thermometer is that you open up your oven, or BBQ lid and push the probe into the meat. A good instant read meat thermometer will give you a quick and reliable temperature reading. Obviously the quicker the reading the less heat is lost with the lid or door open.

This style is particularly popular for BBQ's where you might want to test lots of different types of meat in a short time. It's less popular for large joints cooked in the oven as the oven will cool down whilst the door is open and you are using the device.

You will generally find you get a temperature reading in between 10 and 30 seconds. Instant read meat thermometers are generally more robust than the leave-in probe type and can also cope with higher temperatures (up to 450°F compared to 350°F).