Thermometers

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Thermometers

What's behind our thermometer Ratings?

Experts at our National Testing and Research Center tested 10 models in thermometers to see which ones perform best.

We look for:

Overall score
Overall score is based predominantly on accuracy and repeatability, and to a lesser extent, on features, ease-of-use, and comfort.
Accuracy
Accuracy is each model's performance compared to that of a medical grade thermometer. Readings were taken on adults without fever.
Repeatability
Repeatability is the variation of each model's successive temperature readings. Readings were taken on adults without fever.
Features
The Features score is a combination of objectively measured and observed attributes for accessories and operational performance.

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Recommended thermometers

Recommended thermometers are standout choices with high scores. They include CR Best Buys, which offer exceptional value. When narrowing your choices, weigh features, price, and attributes that matter to you.

Recommended thermometers

Thermometer buying guide

To find the thermometer that is right for you, read our expert advice on which features to consider and how to find the best value.

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Why shop here?

In addition to finding Ratings for the latest models, you can now shop online using an ad-free interface where you can buy thermometers in a safe-shopping environment.

Learn more about our Price & Shop program

For your baby's first thermometer, go with an inexpensive digital model. Look for an LCD display that's easy to read and a start button that's easy to press. But don't be swayed by digital thermometers that claim to take a reading in an instant. A reading in 20 to 60 seconds is quick enough. If you're looking for information about thermometers, Consumer Reports is your best resource. Consumer Reports’ thermometer reviews will give you honest buying advice that you can trust. Use our thermometer buying guide to discover which features are most important to consider. We also provide unbiased Ratings and thermometer reviews to help you choose the best thermometer for your needs.

Ratings & recommended thermometers

Thermometers (10)

Recommended models are standout choices with high scores. They include CR Best Buys, which offer exceptional value. When narrowing your choices among models, weigh performance, features, price, and attributes that matter to you, such as color, size, or style.

Thermometer buying guide

Placing your hand lightly on your child's forehead often provides the first clue that there's a fever. Then you'll need a more reliable way to confirm your suspicion. That's when a good thermometer is necessary--meaning one that's highly accurate. For babies under 3 months old especially, every tenth of a degree counts. The difference between a temperature of 100.3 degrees F and 100.4 degrees F, for example, can determine whether you stay home or take your baby to the emergency room. Any fever in this age group is typically considered an emergency.

But what type of thermometer should you choose? Some digital stick thermometers can be used to take a rectal, oral, or armpit temperature. Check manufacturer instructions before use. Also available are infrared devices, which are either designed to be used on the forehead, in the ear, or without any bodily contact at all (non contact).

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends taking a rectal temperature in infants and children younger than 3, because it's the most accurate measurement. An armpit temperature may be preferred for screening, but it's the least accurate. If the armpit temperature is above 99 degrees F, check it with a rectal temperature.

In children older than 3, taking an oral temperature is acceptable. An ear thermometer is another option for older babies and children. It gives quick results, but placing it can be tricky. While other methods for taking your child's temperature are available, the AAP doesn't recommend them. Ask your child's doctor for advice.

Whatever method you choose, the thermometer you purchase should be easy to use and comfortable for your child. With this in mind, our recent tests of 10 fever thermometers not only measured accuracy but also included comments from 19 children ages 4 and up about their comfort level with each thermometer.

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