INSTANT-READ THERMOMETERS

Simply the best: fast, accurate, and easy to use. The Thermapen also has the widest temperature range (-58 to 572 degrees).

While this no-frills model is rated to only 302 degrees, it accurately registered temperature in 350-degree frying oil. While every reading was accurate, the lack of a calibration function might spell trouble down the road.

This looks much like the CDN Q2-450 (complete with short probe), but its response time was four seconds slower. Otherwise, very serviceable.

The swing-out pocketknife-style probe makes for comfortable high-heat temperature measurements, which the broad range permits (-58 to 392 degrees). No calibration function.

While this thermometer does offer a self-calibration button and produces speedy readings, its short probe and limited range (-58 to 300 degrees) makes taking temperatures for deep-frying and candy-making out of the question.

Slow response time is the biggest concern with this thermometer. No calibration function.

A relatively low maximum temperature of 248 degrees and the lack of a calibration function are drawbacks.

The slow response time is this thermometer’s biggest flaw. It does, however, come with a calibration function and a probe of adequate length.

Its relatively poor showing in accuracy tests is a practical flaw; a calibration function would help. The short (2 3/4-inch) stem is a more serious drawback, as is the slow response time. The tiny buttons can be hard to manipulate.