Is It Okay to Buy a Cheap Meat Thermometer?

By Asta Li

Last updated Aug 29, 2025

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Cooking meat to the right temperature isn’t just about flavor—it’s about safety. If you’re shopping for your first meat thermometer, you may wonder: Is it worth buying a cheap one, or should I invest in something better? Let’s look at what home cooks and food enthusiasts say, along with practical tips to help you decide.

What People Say About Cheap Meat Thermometers

In cooking forums, many people agree on one thing: a cheap thermometer is better than no thermometer at all. Here are some common points cooks bring up:

Accuracy is usually fine. Even inexpensive models can get you close enough to safe and delicious results.
They’re just slower. The biggest trade-off is that budget thermometers often take longer to stabilize on a reading.
Good for learning. Beginners can still benefit from having one in the kitchen, even if it’s not the fastest tool.

So while they may not be perfect, budget thermometers do their job and help prevent undercooking or overcooking meat.

What Really Matters in a Meat Thermometer

Instead of focusing on price alone, consider these key factors:

Feature	Budget Thermometers	Higher-Quality Thermometers
Accuracy	Usually decent (within a few °F)	Excellent (very precise)
Speed	Takes longer to settle	Quick, near-instant readings
Durability	May wear out faster	Built to last longer
Ease of Use	Basic functions	Often include backlight, rotating display, or waterproofing

This means if you cook only occasionally, a cheap thermometer might serve you well. But if you cook often and value speed and convenience, investing in a more reliable option will save you time and stress.

The good news is that at ThermoPro, we offer a wide range of thermometers to suit every budget. From affordable options under $20 to high-end smart thermometers with Bluetooth and app connectivity around $70, there’s something for everyone. Some models are even designed for professional use with up to four probes. While reading speed may vary slightly across models, all ThermoPro thermometers deliver excellent accuracy and durability. Our best instant-read thermometer, the Lightning Model TP622, is currently the fastest on the market. Built with outstanding accuracy and high-quality waterproof materials, it combines top performance with a price that remains affordable for all types of cooks.

Tips for Getting the Best Results with a Cheap Thermometer

Calibrate it occasionally. Test it in ice water (should read 32 °F) or boiling water (212 °F at sea level).
Take readings in the thickest part. Avoid touching bone or fat, which can skew results.
Be patient. Give the thermometer enough time to stabilize before pulling out the probe.
Use it to check gradients. Slide it slowly into the meat to see how temperature changes from edge to center.

Final Thoughts

So, is it okay to buy a cheap meat thermometer? Yes—especially if you’re just starting out or cooking on a budget. It will still help you cook meat more safely and consistently.

But if you want faster readings, extra durability, and stress-free cooking, a higher-quality thermometer is worth the small upgrade. That way, you get both accuracy and convenience—helping you nail the perfect steak, roast, or barbecue every time.