14 Best Infrared Thermometers | Technical Review of TOP 14 Infrared Thermometers by Expert | Complete Buyer’s Guide 2022
What is the best infrared thermometer? To begin with, you need to decide what type of infrared thermometer you want to use: a gun-style one or a medical one. Gun-style devices can measure a wide temperature range but focus only on surface temperatures.
The medical thermometers measure the temperature of your temporal artery blood, which is equal to that of your body. While being very accurate, medical infrared thermometers handle a narrower range of temperatures than the gun-style models and need to be held closer to the skin. A good example of this type is the Withings Thermo – Smart Temporal Thermometer made by a trusted European producer.
This versatile device is equally suitable for babies, children, and adults. The product is FSA-eligible and can be covered by your Flexible Spending Account plan. Clinically validated, this thermometer offers high precision and a durable battery. It features 16 infrared sensors and a color-coded fever indicator. Measurements will sync automatically with your smartphone so that you could get advice in the app.
Another trusted manufacturer is Braun. The ThermoScan 5 Ear Thermometer measures the infrared heat generated by the eardrum and surrounding tissue, and it can safely be used to measure the temperature with newborns. The Braun No Touch Plus Forehead Digital Thermometer is suitable for when your child is sleeping. It features an ultra-sensitive sensor and optical system.
Trusted Manufacturers of Medical-Grade Infrared Thermometers
When choosing your infrared thermometer, make sure that it is made by a trustworthy brand-name company to get a truly reliable device. Among the most trusted brands, Withings is to be highlighted.
If you have your heart set on European manufacturers, go with the Withings brand. This is a consumer electronics company founded in France in 2008 by technology experts. Eight years after its establishment, Withings was acquired by Nokia. With headquarters in Issy-les-Moulineaux, it now has offices in the USA and Hong Kong. Along with medical-grade thermometers, Withings offers blood pressure monitors, advanced sleep trackers, highly accurate smart scales, award-winning hybrid smartwatches, and custom solutions to professionals. The company is good at innovation, with one of its achievements being the creation of the world’s first connected blood pressure monitor. All Withings devices that provide medical data are FDA-cleared.
How accurate are infrared thermometers?
There are several things to consider when choosing your medical infrared thermometer. The first and most important one is accuracy, which is stated by the manufacturer. The accuracy of a quality infrared thermometer is approximately 0.5°F and depends on the components used. And yet, this characteristic may also depend on ambient temperature, the presence of other electronic devices, and such factors as sweat and skin creams. Some infrared thermometers are more reliable than others.
Another essential feature is emissivity, which is the amount of infrared energy the device can put out at a time. In infrared thermometers, this value ranges from 0.00 to 1.00. The higher the emissivity, the more organic materials your thermometer can read. Medical thermometers have emissivity set at 0.98, which is ideal for measuring the temperature of human skin.
When Do You Need a Wall-Mounted Infrared Thermometer?
Designed specifically for measuring body temperatures in public spaces and workplaces, wall-mounted infrared forehead thermometers can operate without human participation. They are mounted to the wall with the included adhesive patches so that people could scan themselves when needed.
Buyer’s Guide
Measure the temperature of your roast meat, electrical equipment, automotive, or other surfaces from a distance with an infrared thermometer. It provides a fast and easy way of measuring the temperature without touching the item you are measuring. And, with the auto shut off feature, you can use the device with minimal supervision. The following discussion elaborates on the uses of this device. We’ll cover how infrared thermometers work, different types of IR thermometers, their pros and cons, and usage tips. We’ll review TOP Best Infrared Thermometers to make choosing one less of a hassle.
Infrared thermometers are used in different industries and work environments to determine the temperature of objects from a distance. The distance can range from an inch to miles. These thermometers are used in areas where other kinds of thermometers can't be used, e.g., electrical circuits, mechanical equipment, building systems, moving objects, and objects in a vacuum for time-sensitive readings.
How it Works
These devices measure infrared radiation to determine the temperature of an object.
Infrared radiation is one type that occurs within the electromagnetic spectrum; other types include visible light, x-rays, and microwaves.
It is based on the concept of blackbody radiation, which means that any object whose temperature is above zero has molecules moving around. Higher temperatures cause the particles to move faster thus, emitting infrared radiation. Increased temperature leads to a higher emission of the infrared radiation, which then begins to emit visible light. It explains the change in the color of metals when they are extremely hot.
Other theories state that infrared thermometers measure the gradient in radiation between objects. For example, if there is a difference in temperature between an object and the surrounding environment, it is estimated and used as the temperature. As such, if the object has the same temperature as the environment, the net radiation is zero.IR thermometers measure this gradient to determine the temperature of the object and display the results.
The IR light can be absorbed, focused, or reflected. Handheld thermometers use a lens to focus the light from the object to the detector (thermopile). The sensor absorbs radiation and converts it to heat then to electricity. The electricity is then sent to the detector using it to determine the temperature of the object. More electricity is produced as the object becomes hotter.
Professional Applications
HVAC:
- Perform energy audits to identify infiltration and leaks
- Identify insulation problems
- Manufacturing
- Monitor manufacturing process
- Monitor high-temperature substances like metals and plastics
Automotive:
- Testing the thermostat to diagnose overheating
- Identify poor performance of A/C systems
Medical:
- Measure the body temperature for fever (measures the temperature through the ear)
Food:
- Avoid cross-contamination
- Check the quality of food and safety
- Monitor temperature at critical control points when goods are reheated, cooked, cooled, and served
General Applications:
- Check door and window frames for leakages
- Determine the temperature of freezers and refrigerators
- Identify insulation problems in a home
It's pretty easy; you only need to fix the batteries in their compartment and activate the desired temperature unit (Celsius or Fahrenheit).
Turn on the device by pressing the power button and aim the gun to the surface you want to measure the temperature.
Be sure to stand close to the object or within the DS ratio indicated by the manufacturer for accurate readings.
Pull the trigger to observe the reading on the digital display on the thermometer.
The construction of infrared thermometers comprises an optical system to collect energy, an emissivity adjustment that matches the calibration of the thermometer to characteristics of the object and a detector (thermopile).
Modern infrared thermometers mimic the same concept, but numerous advances in technology have introduced sophisticated devices to widen the scope of their applications. As such, detectors are designed to match specific applications to improve performance.
Here are the different types of infrared thermometers.
- Spot infrared thermometers: these kinds display the temperature on a particular spot on a surface.
- Infrared scanning systems: the devices scan larger areas and are used in manufacturing processes that involve conveyors, e.g., when continuous piles of objects move along a large sheet of metal from an oven.
- Infrared thermal imaging cameras: these kinds use cameras to measure the temperature at different points over a larger area to create two-dimensional images called thermograms. The technology applied to the devices is more hardware and software intensive compared to regular infrared thermometers.
- Emissivity
It refers to the efficiency with which an object absorbs or emits infrared energy. The values range from 0.0 to 1.0.
Objects that have an emissive value of 1.0 are called perfect emitters as they radiate 100% energy.
An efficient infrared thermometer should factor in this feature based on the type of object in question because various surfaces emit radiation differently.
- Speed and Accuracy
Effective IR thermometers deliver temperatures fast and accurately.
Advanced versions factor is adjustable emissivity for more accurate readings. Experts allow a +1% margin of error when using professional IR thermometers and +2% for less expensive devices.
- The Temperature Range
The primary factor here is whether the thermometer is used for professional or home-based applications.
For regular use, e.g., around the house, a temperature range of -58 to 1022 degrees Fahrenheit is ideal. However, in advanced applications like in manufacturing processes, the temperature range should be more than 1487 degrees Fahrenheit.
- DS Ratio
The distance to spot ratio affects the accuracy of the readings from the thermometer. The rate is determined by the size of the area being measured in relation to the distance.
For example, if an object has a D/S ratio of 10:1 and it is 5 inches in size, the maximum distance the thermometer can accurately measure the temperature is within 50 inches.
Distances larger than that range will be inaccurate as the IR thermometer will include the temperature of the surrounding objects and surfaces. Most IR thermometers in the market have a DS ratio of 12:1.
- Warranty
A warranty is a good indication of a high-quality IR thermometer. The period can range from 90 days to 10 years based on the manufacturer.
Best-Selling Infrared Thermometers | Comparison Table
Infrared Thermometer (Not for Human) Non-Contact Digital Laser Temperature Gun Pyrometer with LCD Color Display...
- ►【HIGH ACCURACY】Combining the latest temperature sensor technology and advanced Fresnel lens, this instrument reads values of high accuracy up to ±2% in only 0.5s ;The adjustable emissivity is 0.1-1.0, which can measure the surface temperature of different objects more accurately.
- ►【PRECISE POSITIONING】Built-in red laser for precisely aiming, accurately find the measurement target; Color large screen display, clear reading. The distance to spot ratio is 12:1, which means you can measure the target at a longer distance. For the best accuracy, the thermometer should be 14 in/ 36 cm away from the object.
- ►【MORE APPLICABLE FUNCTIONS】 This infrared thermometer accurately test the temperature during -58℉~1112℉(-50℃~600℃); Toggle between Celsius/Fahrenheit measurements as needed; has a LCD backlight so you can view the temperatures even in the dark; Auto power off function saves you battery power.
- ►【SCOPE OF APPLICATION:】 Infrared technology makes the thermometer can be used to measure temperature in daily and industrial environments. For high temperature, toxic or difficult to reach objects, to use of this product can be safely measured. Used in cooking, automatic / motor maintenance, home / commercial maintenance and other fields!
- ►【Note】The thermometer can't measure the internal temperature of an object; temperature readings from this device are inanimate objects, the measured temperature for humans or animals will not be correct; we provide Lifelong after-sales service and return for a full refund within 30 days.
Infrared Forehead Thermometer, Non-Contact Digital Thermometer for Baby and Adult with LCD Display
- Non-contact Measuring: reads from forehead with no physical contact, avoid direct contact with the skin, makes measuring process easily and efficiently.
- Thermometers with LCD Display: 3 colors of green, orange, red temperature display. If temperature is more than 37.5℃(99.5℉), there will be an Instant beeper of the infrared thermometer.
- Fahrenheit Reading Available: Default units is Fahrenheit. You can directly use forehead thermometer without any temperature units transit. You can also transit units to Celsius by switching the units, according to our user guide online.
- Fast & Accurate: With ultra-sensitive infrared sensor, quick to take an accurate and reliable Measurement within 1S. Saves your time for waiting. Automatic power-off (
- Multifunctional Usage: Thermometer can be used in families, nursery, hotels, school, etc. With Two Modes-Human Mode and Object Mode, it can also measure room, object, and liquids temperature.
Femometer Forehead Thermometer, Non Touch Digital Medical Thermometer for Adult and Kids, Professional Infrared...
- The Best Choice of Family - The small and exquisite thermometer will perform excellently with the high precision infrared sensor. Its consistency and reliability can be dedicated to giving our family members the best care. The Best thermometer for the whole family.
- 2 In 1 Infrared Thermometer - The digital fever thermometer is designed for all ages, adults, infants and elders. It supports forehead function and take object temperature. ℃ and ℉ are easily switchable according to preference.
- 3 Color Backlight - Clear display of measured data in LCD screen with fever warning system, the thermometer for fever will indicate temperature status with corresponding emoticons. The thermometer stores up to 10 sets measurement data to keeping track on any variations in the body temperature, and easily recall the past 10 sets of data.Green means normal body temperature, orange means mild fever and red means high fever.
- Instant Read Thermometer - Fast measurement with instant reading without physical contact, no need wait. We can care our baby with the thermometer indoor and outdoor.
- Femometer Health Keeper - We provide a 1-year service for quality-related issues. Return and refund are acceptable. For any issues, please contact us via Amazon email or our support team, we will response within 24 hours.
Helect (NOT for Human) Infrared Thermometer, Non-Contact Digital Laser Temperature Gun -58°F to 1022°F (-50°C to...
- Helect infrared thermometer can be used both daily and industrial temperature measurement, such as cooking, refrigeration, steel, glass, plastics, food and so on.(NOTE: The measured temperature for humans or animals will not be correct.)
- °C/°F switchable, automatic data hold, backlit LCD, low battery indicator, auto power off function. 9V Battery is included.
- Easily and quickly measure temperatures from a safe and hazard-free distance. NOTE: The diameter of the object under test must be bigger than the laser spot size.
- Built-in red laser for precisely aiming. Distance Spot Ratio: 12:1, great to measure a long distance target.
- Measures temperature range: -50°C to 550°C/ -58°F to 1022°F; Portable and anti-slip design makes it easily to get the temperature outdoors and indoors.
Touchless Forehead Thermometer for Adults Baby and Kids Non-Contact Digital Thermometer Medical Infrared...
- Non Contact and 1 Second Measurement: One-button fast temperature measurement. Non-contact infrared measurement, while avoiding cross-infection. Measuring distance is 1-3cm.
- Multi-Mode: The Forehead thermometer is designed for all ages, adults, infants, and elders. It does not only support forehead function but also able to monitor room/object temperature.One-button fast temperature measurement. Non-contact infrared measurement, while avoiding cross-infection. Measuring distance is 1-3cm. Powered by 2 AAA batteries(Batteries INCLUDED)
- Convenient Memory Feature: You can store up to 35 temperature readings and recall them at any time. This comes in handy for keeping a record and makes it convenient for babies, children, adults, Also has an auto-shutdown feature for power saving.
- Sound Reminder: High-accuracy infrared measurement, intelligent algorithm, audible alert for over-temperature. The HD LED screen displays clear numbers and three different colors that are easy to read and distinguish.
- Very Accurate Readings: Our thermometer has been clinically tested and found to be a fast and absolutely reliable gadget to use. It is ideal for the forehead readings, and have a very small error margin(0.4°F for body mode, and 1.8°F for ambient/object mode. It is actually more accurate than standard mercury thermometers).
Etekcity Infrared Thermometer Digital Temperature Gun Non-contact Food Laser Thermometer for Kitchen Cooking BBQ...
- Versatile Design: Infrared technology makes this digital thermometer handy to use when cooking food and barbequing, making candy,testing bath water for baby,performing auto maintenance, doing home repairs, and a host of other tasks and much more
- Better Accuracy: The distance to spot ratio is 12:1, measuring targets at greater distances than most other thermometers,and for best accuracy, the distance between the thermometer and object of measurement should approximately be 14.17 inches (36cm)
- Target Quicker: A built in laser gives you the precision to hone in on the exact space you want to measure. Don't blindly guess where you're pointing your laser thermometer
- Added Function: The LCD screen is backlit, also has an auto-off function to extend the battery life, and features a low battery indicator so you never accidentally run out of juice (battery included)
- NOTE: Temperature readings from this devices are inanimate objects. The measured temperature for humans or animals will not be correct.
Inkbird Infrared Thermometer INK-IFT01, Non-Contact Digital Laser Temperature Gun IR Thermometer, Adjustable...
- Accurate Results: This Temperature Gun Distance to Spot Ratio is 12:1 and the built-in helps to position an exact area of the target object, promotes the measure precision. Accuracy of Infared Thermometer: ±2% or ±2℃.
- Adjustable Emissivity: The emissivity ranges of infrared thermometer from 0.1 to 1.0, you can adjust the emissivity according to the meat or material need to be measured, we have attached a emissivity table at the end of the user’s manual for your reference.
- Multiple Applications: -58℉~1022℉ wide measurement range, this digital infrared thermometer can be used for measuring the surface temperature of cooking, meat, foods, refrigerators, industrial, automobiles, electrical products and other objects.
- Convenient Laser Temperature Gun: Backlit LCD screen, support colourful display and screen auto-off, saves energy for you. A 9V battery could last very long time, no more frequently battery changes. In addition, the cooking temperature gun supports ℉/℃ switch, and historical max temperature value display.
- Note: The infrared thermometer is for use on surfaces, not humans, the results will be incorrect when you applied this product on humans or animals; The cooking infrared thermometer can not measure the internal temperature of an object; Do not irradiate human eyes directly or indirectly with infrared rays at any time.
INKBIRD INK-IFT01 Infrared Thermometer(Not for Human),Non-Contact Digital Laser Temperature Gun...
- 💛💛[Better accuracy]--The Distance to Spot Ratio is 12:1 and the built-in laser helps to position an exact area of the target object. This instrument reads values of high accuracy up to ±2% in only 0.5s. Adjustable Emissivity: 0.1 to 1.0.
- 💛💛[Multiple Applications]-- Wide Measure Range: Measure surface temperature ranging from -58℉ to 1022℉/-50℃ to 550℃, you can choose the unit from ℉/ ℃.
- 💛💛[Convenient Use]-- Backlit LCD screen, support colourful display and screen auto-off, saves energy for you, a 9V 6F22 battery could last about 12 months, no more frequently battery changes.
- 💛💛[Multiple Uses]--Infrared technology support to measure the surface temperature of various objects, especially temperatures above the boiling point and below the freezing point; Used for BBQ, Cooking,refrigerator,automobiles,etc.
- 💛💛[Note]--The infrared thermometer cannot measure the internal temperature of the object.The measured temperature for humans or animals will not be correct Do not irradiate human eyes directly or indirectly with infrared rays at any time. INKBIRD will provide 1 year warranty and lifetime consulting services.
Etekcity Lasergrip 800 (Not for Human) Digital Infrared Thermometer Laser Temperature Gun Non-contact-58℉ -1382℉...
- BETTER ACCURACY: The distance to spot ratio is 16:1 meaning the lasergrip 800 can accurately measure targets at larger measurement area with the same distance compared with other thermometers with DSR 12:1 or 8:1
- TARGET QUICKER: Measure surface temperature ranging from -58℉ to 1382℉/ -50℃ to 750℃ you can choose the unit from ℉/ ℃ A built in laser gives you the precision to hone in on the exact space you want to measure
- ADDED FUNCTIONS: The LCD screen is backlit, it also has an Auto-Off function to extend the battery life and features a low battery indicator so you never accidentally run out of juice (battery included)
- ADDED FUNCTIONS The LCD screen is backlit it also has an auto-off function to extend the battery life and features a low battery indicator so you never accidentally run out of juice (battery included)
- VERSATILE DESIGN: Infrared technology makes it to measure the surface temperature of various objects especially temperatures above boiling points and below freezing points; Use it for cooking, ovens; A/C, refrigerators; or soapmaking cats toy etc.
- NOTE: The thermometer can't measure the internal temperature of an object; Temperature readings from this devices are inanimate objects, the measured temperature for humans or animals will not be correct; Class 2 laser, optical power 0. 5-0. 9Mw
HOLDPEAK Infrared Thermometer HP-981AS Non-Contact Digital Handheld Temperature Measure Instant-Read -50℃~380℃...
- 🔹🔸【Non-Contact】A non-contact thermometer, safe and clean, measuring distance of 3-5cm. With wide temperature range 32℃~43℃(89 to109℉),Accuracy:±0.3℃(0.5℉),a gun type which is easy to hold with simple operation.
- 🔹🔸【32 sets Memory Recall】Press the trigger to start the measurement,the data is automatically saved, press the up and down selection keys to view the historical data, up to 32 sets of data are recorded.
- 🔹🔸【Temperature Alarm Setting】High temperature alarm setting,press the up and down selection keys to adjust the alarm temperature (36.5℃-39.5℃) range; This portable handheld temperature gun will remind you once the measured object is higher than the value you set.
- 🔹🔸【Use for Industry】Temperature range -50℃~380℃(-58~716℉),Distance to spot ratio 12:1, emissivity adjustable from 0.1 to 1.0, so you can stand further to get the accurate temp measurement. Suit to use from home and industrial.
- 🔹🔸【Auto Power Off】 The device turns off in 10 seconds of inactivity, this design saves power and prolongs the battery life. What do you get 1 * HP-981AS infrared thermometer, 1 * 9V battery (6F22), 1 * user manual; With one year warranty and lifetime technical support, you can contact us with any questions!
HOLDPEAK Infrared Thermometer HP-981AS Non-Contact Digital Handheld Temperature Measure Instant-Read -50℃~380℃...
- 🔹🔸【Non-Contact】A non-contact thermometer, safe and clean, measuring distance of 3-5cm. With wide temperature range 32℃~43℃(89 to109℉),Accuracy:±0.3℃(0.5℉),a gun type which is easy to hold with simple operation.
- 🔹🔸【32 sets Memory Recall】Press the trigger to start the measurement,the data is automatically saved, press the up and down selection keys to view the historical data, up to 32 sets of data are recorded.
- 🔹🔸【Temperature Alarm Setting】High temperature alarm setting,press the up and down selection keys to adjust the alarm temperature (36.5℃-39.5℃) range; This portable handheld temperature gun will remind you once the measured object is higher than the value you set.
- 🔹🔸【Use for Industry】Temperature range -50℃~380℃(-58~716℉),Distance to spot ratio 12:1, emissivity adjustable from 0.1 to 1.0, so you can stand further to get the accurate temp measurement. Suit to use from home and industrial.
- 🔹🔸【Auto Power Off】 The device turns off in 10 seconds of inactivity, this design saves power and prolongs the battery life. What do you get 1 * HP-981AS infrared thermometer, 1 * 9V battery (6F22), 1 * user manual; With one year warranty and lifetime technical support, you can contact us with any questions!
Infrared Thermometer SOVARCATE Digital IR Laser Thermometer Temperature Gun High and Low Temperature Alarm...
- ►【 HIGH-PRECISION AND MULTI-POINT INDICATION】The infrared temperature measuring gun has 12 laser-indicated dots, a response time of 0.5s, and a high precision of ± 2%, which provides you with a more accurate surface temperature of the object. [Not applicable to humans]
- ►【ADJUSTABLE EMISSIVITY AND TEMPERATURE ALARM】The emissivity range is 0.1-1.0, you can adjust the emissivity according to different materials for the most accurate sea measurement. Axis upper and lower limit values of high and low temperature as required. If the high / low temperature is exceeded, the display lights up red with alarms.
- ►【MORE PRACTICAL FUNCTIONS】 the color LCD screen with backlight can distinguish the data at a glance; MAX / HOLD data function; backlight selection; unit switch (° C / ° F); Low battery indicator and 30-second automatic shutdown function (including battery).
- ►【APPLICATIONS】Used to measure the surface temperature of inanimate objects: cooking, baking, grilling, frozen food, fried food, car repair, home maintenance, plantation, winemaking, water temperature measurement , appliances, adapter temperature measurement, etc.! The thermometer is only used for industrial and domestic kitchen, auto / electrical maintenance.[Not For Human]
- ►【100% MONEY BACK GUARANTEE】 with 2 years warranty and lifetime technical support, if you have any questions about our products, please contact us to enjoy 100% money back / replacement service.
Temperature Scanner Infrared Measuring with Voice Alarm Wall Mounted Thermometer
- Fast Reading Time (1s) - Perfect for high traffic areas
- Voice Alarm supporting multiple languages for alerts of abnormal temperature
- Quick and High accuracy temperature measurement with a precision of ±0.2 degrees within the range of use (34~45℃).
- Wall or stand mounted for hands free and attendant free use
Easy@Home No Touch Forehead Thermometer for Digital Body Temperature Measurement for Adult and Kid, Co-Branding...
- ★NON-CONTACT & ONE SECOND INSTANT READING: Can take your forehead/body temperature instantly without physical contact; Suitable for all ages, including adults, children and elders. A great choice for families, nurseries, clinics and schools.
- ★3 MODES IN 1: Body, Surface, and Room temperature. Specially designed to take the Human Body Temperature at CENTER of Forehead from a distance of 1.2 to 2in. (3 to 5cm).
- ★TRI-COLOR BACKLIGHT with FEVER ALARM: Large 3-color backlit display and fever beeping alarm indicating normal, elevated and fever temperature respectively in body mode; Mute and buzzer modes are available on alarm.
- ★CLINICAL ACCURACY: Wipe off any sweat, perspiration, or grease before the measuring for accuracy. Measurement units can be switchable between ℉ and ℃ according to preference.
- ★MEMORY RECALL and AUTO SHUT-OFF: Recalls the latest 32 temperatures and can automatically turn off to save power when there is no operation for 30 seconds.
Top Infrared Thermometers
1. Thermometer for Fever Digital Medical Infrared
This medical IR thermometer is ideal for all ages. It has a dual mode thus, can function as a forehead and ear thermometer for kids older than three months.
The thermometer delivers temperature readings in just eight seconds, and users can view a maximum of 20 previous readings if monitoring the temperature of a child.
The LCD flicker alarm makes this device even more efficient as it alerts the user using seven short, rapid rings when the temperature exceeds 37.5 degrees Celsius. Compared to other thermometers that use mercury, the Ankovo is entirely safe as the glass does not break.
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2. Equinox Digital Thermometer Non Contact Infrared Forehead - 3-Modes
This three-in-one thermometer is designed to measure the body temperature, that of a room, and surfaces. If you are taking the temperature of a child, you don't need to disturb him as you can accurately do it within a distance of 3-5 cm from his forehead. It is fitted with a 3-color changing LCD screen to help the user determine if the subject is normal, has a high temperature, or is just medium.
Equinox thermometer uses infrared technology to deliver instant results, and the built-in alarm system alerts you if a fever is detected. It also has a backlight that turns red and makes a sound if the child has a high fever. Additionally, it displays up to 32 previous readings, so you can monitor the progress of your little one.
Users can also change the settings from Celsius to Fahrenheit (and vice versa) with a simple click of the button. Medical experts say that the Equinox Digital Non-Contact Infrared Forehead Thermometer is the most accurate for taking temperature readings of a child. It measures the body temperature within a range of 32-42.9 degrees Celsius and 0-60 degrees for surface temperature.
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3. Etekcity Lasergrip 1080 Non-Contact Digital Laser Infrared Thermometer
The Lasergrip 1080 is designed for indoor and outdoor use. It measures temperature within a range of -58 degree Fahrenheit and 1022 degrees Fahrenheit, which is pretty impressive for household use. The Lasergrip 1080 is fitted with an LCD screen that has a backlight and users can switch between degrees Celsius and Fahrenheit just by a simple click of a button.
Its response time is almost instant, i.e., 15 seconds within a Distance to Spot ratio of 12:1. For more accurate results, the distance between the object and the thermometer should be 36 cm/ 14.17 inches.
The Etekcity Lasergrip 1080 Non-Contact Digital Laser Infrared Thermometer Temperature Gun is designed for various applications such as home repairs, measuring the surface temperatures of objects beyond the freezing and boiling point, barbequing, cooking, and when performing auto maintenance.
A nine-volt battery powers it and the low-battery indicator should alert the user when it needs to be replaced. Note that the lasergrip 1080 does not measure the internal temperature of the object thus, it can't be used to obtain the temperature of animals and humans.
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4. Thermometer, Infrared Temperature Non-Contact Digital Infrared Temperature Gun
This IR thermometer combines the most recent temperature sensor technology with the advanced Frensel lens to deliver accurate readings with only +/- 1.5% margin of error in just 0.5 seconds.
Its wide temperature range allows application on auto maintenance, cooking, home repair, and barbecuing, among other household tasks. T
he Super IR5D has a built-in laser that delivers instant results displayed in the form of Max/Min/Average/Diff values on the LCD screen.
The buzzer alarm beeps immediately it attains the high/low temperature set by the user. The thermometer is powered by a 15mAh battery that lasts 6-12 months. And, with its eight-second auto-off feature, the battery is likely to last longer.
The package comes with a free meat thermometer that has a food-grade stainless steel construction. It measures the inner temperature of food within a range of -50-300 degree Celsius.
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5. Taylor Precision Products Splash-Proof Dual Temperature Infrared
The thermometer is designed for culinary applications and has a dual function unit that allows users to determine the internal temperature of meat and obtain surface temperatures using the built-in infrared feature.
As such, users can view the temperature of the surfaces before searing the meat or putting the pizza on a stone.
It has a temperature range of -67-482 degrees Fahrenheit. The margin of error is pretty small, i.e., +/-2 for 14 degrees Fahrenheit and +/-1% for 149 degrees Fahrenheit.
This thermometer is fitted with three LED lights that signal when the food is cold, hot, or has a medium temperature.
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FAQ
The device only measures infrared radiation and does not release it. However, thermometers that have built-in lasers may be harmful when used on delicate areas like the eyes. As such, experts advise using non-laser models for medical applications for safety. Read more...
When you have installed the battery, initiate the trigger system to turn the device on or off. Most wireless thermometers have an automatic shut-off feature that turns the unit off after some time (usually 7-15 seconds). Read more...
The thermometers can be calibrated using an infrared comparator cup. Experts advise calibrating one temperature more for enhanced accuracy. If you can't access an infrared comparator cup, you can use an ice bath as it has a temperature of 0.0 degrees Celsius. Read more...
Accuracy depends on the model and the brand of the IR thermometer, as well as its application. Most manufacturers provide a range within which the accuracy lies, but they can only be met if the item has a known emissivity of 0.95. That's why it is essential to buy a thermometer that allows emissivity adjustment for accuracy.
- You can measure the temperature of a baby by:
- Placing the thermometer on the rectal opening (it is the most accurate as thermometer displays the slightest change in the kid's temperature)
- Measuring the temperature from the eardrum; use tympanic thermometers and hold it in the right position for accurate reading. Standard digital thermometers do not apply in this case
- Placing the device in the armpit; this method is ideal for kids older than three months
- Placing it on the forehead
No, because air does not emit radiation energy and its emissivity is too low to be detected. However, users can determine its temperature by pointing the thermometer at an item that has the same temperature as the air.
Pros and Cons of Infrared Thermometers
Pros:
- Allows measurement of temperatures of hot surfaces from a distance
- Are versatile as they can measure the temperature of moving parts, foods, and in manufacturing applications
- Can detect room temperature, soil temperature, that of pipes and windows
- The device can be mounted a short distance from the hot object for operation for extended periods
- Users can determine the temperature of an object if its emissivity is known
- Can be used to diagnose problems in electrical and mechanical appliances by measuring the temperature on heating points
Cons:
- Does not measure the temperature of liquids and gases
- Accuracy can be affected by dust and high humidity
- IR thermometers only measure the surface temperature and not the internal temperature
- Users may obtain inaccurate readings caused by reflection of radiation from hot objects
- Rapid changes in temperature can affect IR thermometers
Tips & Life Hacks
To get the most accurate readings from the infrared thermometer ensure that:
- The item covers the whole field of view of the thermometer
- Avoid pointing the device at shining surfaces. You can add an electrical insulating tape on the metal surface for more accurate results
- Adopt a perpendicular position with the target surface or item when using the device
Conclusion
Infrared radiation technology in thermometers has certainly made it easy to obtain temperatures of items we could never imagine in the past. Thermometers are now not only limited to medical purposes, but users can determine the hotspot of an oven using the Dual Temperature Infrared/Thermocouple Thermometer or that of auto parts with the Etekcity Lasergrip 1080 Non-Contact Digital Laser Infrared Thermometer Temperature Gun. You just need to purchase a suitable thermometer for the right application.