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.

Connect

Forums

Discuss products and safety with subscribers and fans.

Follow Consumer Reports

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.
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.

Thermometer buying guide


... Read more

Getting started   |   Types   |   Features   |   Brands   |   Shopping tips

Babies & Kids News

Safety 1st toilet and cabinet locks recalled due to locking failures

About 183,000 toilet locks and 685,000 cabinet locks from Safety 1st are being recalled, warned two government agencies, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission and Health Canada. The locks...

2 bike helmets offer poor protection from impact, our tests find

Any bike helmet is better than riding with no helmet. But when you're paying $50 or $60 for one, you'd like to think that it's going to protect your head if you crash into a curb, a rock, or...

When to retire a child seat, how to recycle an old one

Hand-me downs are a part of growing up in many families. It can be a great way to save money, but not all things should be shared equally. For instance, child seats can be passed down, though...

New labeling will help you pick the best sunscreen

Coming soon to a store near you: sunscreens with labels that are easier to understand. The Food and Drug Administration plans to give manufacturers until mid-December to make all the changes,...

Think safety when turning over mowing tasks to your teen

With a long summer of mowing ahead, parents of teens and pre-teens may be wondering when it's safe for a child to take over this chore. Children under 18 suffer 13 percent of the 68,000 mower...
left arrow right arrow
See also:
Play yards
6 Tested down arrow
Baby jumpers
See buying guide down arrow
Diaper pails
See buying guide down arrow
Bouncer seats
See buying guide down arrow
Diapers
See buying guide down arrow
Backpack carriers
See buying guide down arrow