
What's the best thermometer?
Best Overall: Braun ThermoScan Ear Thermometer with ExacTemp Technology. Innovative ThermoScan technology is more accurate than forehead or rectal readings.
What is the best medical thermometer?
- 3-COLOR BACKLIGHT with FEVER ALARM: Berrcom thermometer JXB-178 has large 3-color…
- MEDICAL GRADE ACCURACY: Berrcom Infrared thermometer meet the medical grade accuracy,…
- MEMORY RECALL and AUTO SHUT-OFF: Berrcom JXB-178 recalls the latest 32 temperatures…
What is the best no touch thermometer?
These are the best thermometers you can buy, according to testing, in-home use, and online reviews:
- Best Overall Thermometer: iProven DTR-1221A Medical Thermometer
- Best Thermometer for Babies: Vicks ComfortFlex Digital Thermometer
- Best In-Ear Thermometer: Equate Infrared In-Ear Digital Thermometer
- Best Smart In-Ear Thermometer: Kinsa Ear Digital Thermometer
- Best Thermometer for Kids: iProven DMT-489 Thermometer
What are the best medical thermometers?
10 Best Infrared Thermometer Medical April 2022
- Medical Non-Contact Infrared Thermometer Gun LCD Digital Forehead Fever Adult
- Non Contact Touchless Medical Infrared Forehead Thermometer For Baby Kids Adults
- Thermometer Medical Non-Contact Infrared Dual Sensor Digital CFDA CE Certified
- Medical Infrared Thermometer Baby Adult & Fingertip Pulse Oximeter SPO2 Monitor

Which thermometer do doctors use?
TRITEMP™ thermometers are an essential piece of equipment in hospitals but they can be used in a wider range of medical settings, including dentists, care homes and doctor surgeries.
Which is more accurate forehead or oral thermometer?
Rectal temps are the most accurate. Forehead temps are the next most accurate. Oral and ear temps are also accurate if done properly. Temps done in the armpit are the least accurate.
Which thermometer gives the most accurate temperature?
Contact thermometers Rectal temperatures provide the most-accurate readings for infants, especially those 3 months or younger, as well as children up to age 3. Temperatures taken from the armpit are usually the least accurate.
Which thermometer is more accurate ear or mouth?
An ear (tympanic) temperature is 0.3°C (0.5°F) to 0.6°C (1°F) higher than an oral temperature. An armpit (axillary) temperature is usually 0.3°C (0.5°F) to 0.6°C (1°F) lower than an oral temperature. A forehead (temporal) scanner is usually 0.3°C (0.5°F) to 0.6°C (1°F) lower than an oral temperature.
What can cause a false fever reading?
Hot food & drinks. If you are checking your temperature using an oral thermometer in your mouth, wait 15-20 minutes after eating or drinking. Oral intake does not impact core body temperature but can cause a false reading on your thermometer.
Why is my temperature different every time I take it?
If you measure several times in a row, your body's temperature will naturally rise (and sometimes fall), so the first temperature reading will be different than the next reading. The basal body temperature changes with how long you have been awake, moving, if you stand up, etc.
Which thermometer is more accurate mercury or digital?
Both laboratory and clinical studies show that there is no significant difference in the average accuracy of the two types of thermometers, however there is a greater fluctuation of readings of temperature when using electronic thermometers.
Which is better ear or forehead thermometer?
For general use at home, forehead thermometers will give an idea of whether or not an individual has a fever. However, according to a 2020 study, forehead thermometers are less accurate than other methods of reading temperature, such as oral, rectal, or tympanic (ear) temperature readings.
Can a forehead thermometer be wrong?
The National Institute of Health research said that a forehead thermometer's readings can become inaccurate if the child's forehead is sweating or if the child is moving. These two variables can be rather difficult to control when it comes to children.
What is considered a high fever?
Adults. Call your health care provider if your temperature is 103 F (39.4 C) or higher. Seek immediate medical attention if any of these signs or symptoms accompanies a fever: Severe headache.
Is a temp of 99.5 a fever?
While body temperatures vary, most of us have an internal temperature around 98.6 degrees Fahrenheit. A temperature slightly higher than that is still normal. When your temperature is between 100.4 and 102.2, you have what is considered a low grade fever.
Which is better no touch or ear thermometer?
As discussed, the ear thermometer may provide extremely accurate readings with older children who do not mind feeling the thermometer in their ears. For parents with younger children, the forehead thermometer is ideal as it is gentle and non-intrusive.
Why is neck temperature higher than forehead?
The temperature is measured on the lateral side of neck, which lies closer to large arteries (carotid artery) than do the temporal arteries of the forehead region.
What forehead temperature is a fever?
Advertising revenue supports our not-for-profit mission. The following thermometer readings generally indicate a fever: Rectal, ear or temporal artery temperature of 100.4 (38 C) or higher. Oral temperature of 100 F (37.8 C) or higher.
Do you add a degree to a forehead thermometer?
A temporal thermometer will read at about 0.5 to 1 degree lower than an oral thermometer, so you need to add 0.5 to 1 degree to get what your temperature would read orally. For example, if your forehead temperature read as 98.5°F, you could actually have a low-grade fever of 99.5°F or higher.
How accurate is the forehead thermometer trick?
Run some HOT water on a washcloth and place it on your forehead for a minute before measuring the temperature of your forehead. The Hot water is 116-118 degrees and will transfer that heat into your forehead.
How much does a thermometer cost?
Thermometers loaded with extras can be helpful, but you may not need anything fancy. You can find many simple digital thermometers that do the job for under $20.
What is the most accurate way to take body temperature?
Takeaway. Digital thermometers are the most accurate way to take body temperature. There are many types, including oral, rectal, and forehead, plus many that are multifunctional. Once you decide on the type of thermometer you want, you can think about design, extra features, and price.
Where can you use a digital thermometer?
Most digital thermometers can be used orally under the tongue (for adults and children over 4), rectally (for babies and children under 3), or axillary (under the armpit). The last method is not typically as accurate as the first two methods.
What is a choice 8 in 1 thermometer?
Key features: The CHOOSEEN 8-in-1 thermometer is designed for the whole family. With forehead and ear options, you can take someone’s temperature while they relax. This thermometer can also take the temperature of the room, bathwater, or even a cup of soup. If you’re a caregiver, that could come in handy.
What is the purpose of a thermometer?
Accuracy. The purpose of a thermometer is to gauge body temperature. Anything else is a bonus, and paying more won’t necessarily buy accuracy. Fever strips and pacifier thermometers aren’t known to be accurate, so stick with digital.
How accurate is the 8 in 1?
If you’re a caregiver, that could come in handy. The 8-in-1 offers instant readings, a color-coded fever warning system, and 35 sets of memory. A lot of people who’ve used it say it’s accurate, easy to use, and easy to read. It comes with 90-day money-back guarantee and an 18-month replacement warranty.
Is mercury thermometer out?
For safety reasons, mercury thermometers are out, and digital thermometers are in. These days, it only takes a few seconds to get an accurate, readable temperature. The thermometer is a staple of the home medicine cabinet.
What temperature do you take with a digital thermometer?
When assessing digital thermometer readings, keep in mind that armpit (axillary) temperature runs about ½ to 1°F (0.6°C) cooler than oral readings. Rectal thermometers run ½ to 1°F (0.6°C) warmer than oral readings.
What is mercury thermometer?
Mercury thermometers provide accurate temperature readings and can be used orally, rectally, or under the arm.
What is the difference between a tympanic and an axillary thermometer?
Tympanic thermometer readings are typically 0.5°F (0.3°C) to 1°F (0.6°C) higher than oral temperature readings. Axillary thermometer readings can be 0.5°F (0.3°C) to 1°F (0.6°C) lower than oral temperature readings (and may be the least reliable).
How long should you wait to take a rectal thermometer?
Wait at least 15 minutes. Rectal readings may be uncomfortable to get for infants and small children. You shouldn’t use the same thermometer for both rectal and oral readings. This may require the purchase of two thermometers, which should be labeled. Batteries in thermometers should be replaced periodically.
What are the drawbacks of a forehead thermometer?
Forehead thermometers must be positioned accurately and according to the manufacturer’s instructions, or they will not provide the right reading. Readings can be affected by external factors, including drafts, wind, indoor heating, and direct sunlight.
How to use a thermometer with a sound?
Slip the plastic sheath over the bottom tip of the thermometer. The thermometer will indicate that it’s ready to be used with a sound, light, or both. Place the thermometer’s tip underneath the tongue . Some thermometers come with grooves that indicate how far into the mouth it should go.
How long does it take for a digital thermometer to read?
Digital thermometers provide accurate readings in about 1 minute or less.
How many readings can a thermometer store?
Able to store 20 readings, it is a great tool for monitoring temperature.
What is a smart thermometer?
Withings Thermo Temporal Thermometer is a contactless tool that automatically synchronizes with your phone via Wi-Fi, sending data so that up to eight users can access their personal temperature history . The gadget relies on 16 infrared sensors that take a whopping 4,000 measurements in just seconds, giving you an accurate reading as well as a color-coded indication whether you're experiencing a fever or if your temperature is normal. An added bonus? It is FSA eligible, so no prescription needed.
How to use a No Touch thermometer?
To use it, you simply place it 1.18 inches away from the center of the forehead.
How does a thermometer help you get pregnant?
Whether you are trying to get pregnant or avoiding it, a thermometer is a handy tool to track ovulation. Fermometer’s Digital Basal Thermometer was constructed specifically for the purpose of family planning. This smart and precise thermometer connects via Bluetooth to an app on your smartphone, keeping track of your temperature, which they recommend taking daily at the same time. Just in case you forget, there is an alarm to remind you. The app uses your data and an advanced algorithm to predict your likelihood of conceiving, incorporating other fertility signs including BBT, ovulation test results, PdG test results, and period information.
What is the normal temperature for a human body?
While historically, 98.6 degrees Fahrenheit has been considered “normal” body temperature, one recent study calculated it is closer to 97.9. 1 Regardless, health experts are pretty unanimous when it comes to what defines a fever—100.4 degrees Fahrenheit.
Why does my temperature change?
While your body temperature fluctuates throughout the day due to a variety of factors—activity, time of day, and even what you're eating— a sudden temperature change can be an indicator that something is wrong with your health.
Is a thermometer reliable?
Obviously, you want a thermometer that is accurate. Dr. Mareiniss explains that in order to test a thermometer for accuracy, you can take your temperature several times. If it “consistently gives results that are similar,” it is reliable. Additionally, Dr. Flaherty-Hewitt suggests finding one that is easy to use.
Best thermometer overall
The iProven Forehead and Ear Thermometer DMT-489 is highly impressive with an accurate instant read in just one second, versatile use, and comprehensive instructions on quality packaging.
Best budget thermometer
The Vicks Comfort Flex Thermometer was the most affordable of the thermometers tested, easy to use, and has a large digital screen with color-coded readings to indicate fever.
Best infrared non-contact thermometer
The iHealth No-Touch Forehead Thermometer PT3 reads in just one second and makes it easy to accurately take anyone's temperature while being socially distant.
Best thermometer for daily testing
If you're tech-savvy and looking for a great smart thermometer, the Kinsa Quick Care Smart Thermometer can be used three ways and even allows you to contribute to public health research.
Best thermometer for kids
The Exergen Temporal Artery Thermometer with Smart Glow was the most accurate and consistent out of all the thermometers I tested and has over 80 peer-reviewed clinical studies to back up its use on children.
What else we considered
Braun Thermoscan 7 Ear Thermometer ($50.39): This is a fantastic in-ear thermometer with much peer-reviewed research to back it up, and not only do we recommend it but many parents I spoke with already own it.
How we tested thermometers
I reached out to a number of pediatricians for their expert opinion on thermometers and read journal articles, "Consumer Reports," customer reviews, and even spoke with 20 parents about their temperature-taking experiences.
How accurate is an oral thermometer?
For older children and adults, oral readings are usually accurate — as long as the mouth is closed while the thermometer is in place. The pros: Most electronic contact thermometers can record temperatures from the forehead, mouth, armpit or rectum — often in less than one minute. An electronic contact thermometer is appropriate for newborns, ...
Why are mercury thermometers no longer recommended?
Mercury thermometers are no longer recommended because they can break and allow mercury — which is toxic — to escape.
What is a remote temporal artery thermometer?
Temporal artery thermometers. Remote forehead thermometers use an infrared scanner to measure the temperature of the temporal artery in the forehead. A remote temporal artery thermometer can record a person's temperature quickly and are easily tolerated.
What are the two types of thermometers?
In general, there are two types of thermometers. Touch, or contact, thermometers must touch the body in order to measure temperature. Remote, or no contact, thermometers can measure body temperature without touching the skin.
Where to use contact thermometer?
These thermometers can be used on the forehead, mouth, armpit or rectum. Most electronic thermometers have a digital display that shows you the temperature reading.
Is an infrared thermometer safe for children?
When positioned properly, infrared ear thermometers are quick and generally comfortable for children and adults.

Overview
Accuracy
Ease of use
Features
Price
Reviews
Our use of the word “best”
CHOOSEEN Digital Forehead and Ear Thermometer 8-in-1
Braun Thermoscan 7
Vicks ComfortFlex Thermometer
Exergen Temporal Artery Thermometer
iProven Baby Forehead and Ear Thermometer
Kinsa Smart Thermometer
iHealth Thermometer PT3
- Amazon rating: 4.5. out of 5 stars
Key features: The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the benefits of no-touch temperature taking as a way to minimize the risk of spreading disease. They’re also certainly easy to keep clean. - The iHealth PT3 can be used on kids and adults and features a one-button control. You shouldn’…
Instead of waiting to hear a beep, you’ll feel a vibration when it’s ready.
Vicks SpeedRead V912US Digital Thermometer
What if my thermometer isn’t accurate?
Who can use a digital thermometer?
Where can you use a digital thermometer?
What are the different types of digital thermometers?
Is it OK to use a mercury thermometer?
Overview
Digital thermometer
Oral thermometer
Digital ear (tympani thermometer
Forehead (tempora thermometer
App-based thermometer
Pacifier thermometer
Mercury (liquid in glas thermometer
- Mercury thermometers were once the only option available for taking temperature.
Due to safety concerns, they’re no longer widely available and may even be illegal where you live. - Mercury thermometers provide accurate temperature readings and can be used orally, rectally, o…
Since they’re made from glass, mercury thermometers may break easily, allowing toxic mercury to escape.