15 Best Candy Thermometers In 2024 To Get That Right Temperature
Specialty: Recipes, Craft, and Product ReviewsExperience: 12+ yearsAlaina Bullock was born and raised in Birmingham, Alabama, and graduated from Auburn University. With a degree in Early Childhood Education, she spent 15 years teaching before moving to writing. In 2012, Alaina started her product review blog Bullock’s Buzz, where she shared detailed and informative reviews on new products and old favorites.
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In This Article
Candy making is a skill that requires a lot of patience and premium-quality equipment. If you enjoy making candies or want to learn, check out our list of the best candy thermometers to choose the right one. Maintaining the right temperature is essential to get the perfect taste and texture of the sweet treat. If you enjoy making jelly beans, fudges, sugar syrup, candles, and toffees, you need a thermometer to prevent burning or overcooking.
You can use a candy thermometer for jelly making, monitoring meat temperature, yeast proofing, and deep-frying. So, explore the tried-and-tested options and choose one that suits your requirements.
Top Picks
Types Of Candy Thermometers
Candy thermometers are of two types based on their mechanism.
- Analog thermometers or traditional candy thermometers have printed markings and take the help of mercury to showcase the exact temperature.
- Ruler-like steel thermometer displays printed stages of candy and has a big stainless-steel body with a hanging hole.
- Dial thermometer does not have a printed temperature scale for each stage of candy making. It has a large stainless-steel dial for reading and nuts for manual calibration.
- Pyrex thermometer has a tube-like body made from glass. It cannot calibrate temperature and is fragile.
- Digital candy thermometer: The modern digital thermometer is available in steel and laser type and is easy to read. Many of them do not have a built-in clip and cannot be calibrated.
15 Best Candy Thermometers
1. Best Auto-Off:Thermopro TP-02S Instant Read Meat Thermometer
If you frequently host barbeque parties or love to make candies at home, the Habor candy thermometer could be a good pick. The digital thermometer is elegantly designed in silver and has a probe equipped with a strong plastic cap to prevent damage. When you insert the 4.7-inch long stainless probe into your dish, the thin needle accurately shows the temperature.
This handheld thermometer is fast and reads temperatures ranging from -58ºF to 572ºF within four to five seconds of insertion. It also has a ten-minute auto-off feature and a 1.5V button battery. It weighs 1.13oz and measures 0.8×9.2×1.1″. Watch this video of the product for more information.
Pros
- Accurate and durable
- Easy to use
- Ideal length
- Switches unit of readings from ºF to ?
- NSF-certified
- CE-certified
- RoHS-certified
Cons
- Plastic casing may melt easily
- Battery cover might fall off
"I've found this thermometer to be quite handy. It is easy to use and works well for meat and candy. Although it's not the quickest, it seems durable and accurate. Overall, it has been a good buy for ensuring my meals are safely and precisely cooked."
Did You Know?2. Best Dual-Probe:ThermoPro TP-17 MeatCandy Thermometer
The ThermoPro thermometer features a dual-probe technology with two stainless steel 8.5-inch probes to read two food items cooking simultaneously. It saves you time when making multiple dishes. The step-down probe tip is designed to deliver accurate temperature and has a backlit LCD for cooking in low-light conditions. The candy thermometer with a temperature range feature has a timer that beeps and flashes if the temperature rises above the pre-decided Hi/Low-temperature range.
The thermometer has a magnetic back and a flip-out countertop stand to place it conveniently in the cooking container. It has a temperature range of 14° to 572°F with an accuracy of ±1.8°F. Its probe wire can endure up to 716°F when connected to the base with a 40-inch long stainless steel mesh cable. It weighs 4.6oz and measures 3.23×0.85×3.23in. Go through this video review for a detailed understanding of the product.
Pros
- Dual probes and accurate
- Easy to read and set
- Durable and easy to clean
- AAA battery and a Celsius/Fahrenheit selector included
- NSF-certified
Cons
- May be sensitive to water intrusion
- Probes may stop working after a few uses
"The highlight of this thermometer is its dual probes, which allow me to monitor multiple dishes. Its usage instructions could have been more precise, but the clear display still makes it easy to read. Moreover, its durability has helped it survive a few tips."
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
It has received 19,552 reviews on Amazon and is a popular choice among shoppers.
3. Best Lightweight:Lavatools Javelin Candy Thermometer
The Lavatools Javelin digital thermometer is the go-to tool for making candies and bread and deep-fried delicacies. It gives you a reading on its digital screen within three to four seconds, with an accuracy of ±0.9°F.
The NSF-certified thermometer can endure 4000+ hours of continuous use on a single battery. It has an IP65 splash-proof body and an incorporated magnet for comfortable storage on ovens and refrigerators. The thermometer weighs 1.76oz and measures 4.5×1.4×0.75in. Check out this video for a detailed review of the product.
Pros
- Easy to use with a 1.4-inch display
- Reads instantly
- Accurate and lightweight
- Easy to clean and maintain
Cons
- Plastic may crack easily
- May not last long
"This instant-read thermometer has helped me avoid any kitchen disasters this holiday season. It's also sturdy, and the foldable design saves storage space. Its only drawback is its low battery life, but it's proven more accurate than pricer models."
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The overwhelming 17,506 positive reviews on Amazon show how popular this product is with happy users.
Habor Candy Thermometer Best Auto-Off | ThermoPro TP-17 MeatCandy Thermometer Best Dual-Probe | Lavatools Javelin Candy Thermometer Best Lightweight | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weight | 0.8 ounces | 4.5 ounces | - |
| Number of Batteries | 1 LR44 batteries required | 1 AAA batteries required | - |
| Outer Material | Stainless Steel | - | - |
| Color | Silver grill thermometer | Light Silver | Chipotle |
| Batteries | - | - | 1 Lithium Metal batteries required |
| Dimensions | - | - | 4.5 x 1.4 x 0.75 inches |
| Weight | - | - | 1.76 Ounces |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 17,699 | 19,552 | 17,506 |
| Price | $10.99 | $24.99 | $25.99 |
4. Best Easy-To-Use:Taylor Precision Candy Thermometer
Taylor thermometer can be used for making candies, jellies, or for deep frying chicken. It includes a stainless steel paddle, a shatter-proof plastic lens, and an insulated nylon handle. The enlarged 8-inch display on the thermometer’s face shows reading from 100 to 400°F to cover various stages of candy making temperature, suitable for making ‘thread’ to ‘hard crack.’ This paddle thermometer is 12 inches long, weighs 0.81oz, and measures in both F and C.
Pros
- Easy to use and handle
- Sturdy
- Adjustable clip
- Safe and durable
- Dishwasher-safe
Cons
- Might not give an accurate reading
- May break or leak easily
"In addition to being easy to read, this paddle-style thermometer’s durable build has also helped it survive a drop or two in my chaotic kitchen. Securing it to the pots correctly posed a learning curve, but it works well when properly calibrated."
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
This product has received 10,039 reviews from customers on Amazon, indicating its popularity and reliability.
5. Best Pre-Set Stages:CDN Digital Candy Thermometer
The CDN candy thermometer is programmed to deliver accurate readings each time you make candies at high temperatures. It has a 9½ -inch long stainless steel stem and a sturdy ABS plastic case that encompasses pre-programmed candy stages. The tried-and-tested candy thermometer with a temperature alert system helps indicate if the desired temperature is achieved or not. It also features a dual progress display and an auto-off function.
The sheath has a temperature guide, a pocket clip, and the thermometer is powered by two button IEC L444 alkaline batteries of 1.5V. The stainless steel thermometer weighs 3.2oz and is 14×1.25×0.75in in dimensions.
Pros
- Wide temperature range, versatile
- Pre-set stages for candy making
- Adjustable to fit different containers
- Can measure from -40°F to 450°F
Cons
- Assembly may not be easy
- May be difficult to read
"This thermometer is the one I reach for when I have to cook dishes that require proper temperature maintenance. Although it's accurate, a backlight would enhance the reading's visibility. Nevertheless, features like the alarm system and programmed modes have made it reliable."
6. Best Easy-To-Read:Oxo Good Grips Glass Candy And Deep Fry Thermometer
The Oxo candy thermometer has large easy-to-read graphics and features high temperature ranges, making it suitable for different types of candies. In addition, it has measurement markings that indicate precise temperatures in both Fahrenheit and Celsius to make candy-making easier for the user
As per reviews, the stainless-steel candy thermometer with a clip feature helps with easy attachment, removal, or adjust the thermometer on a utensil. Moreover, the glass thermometer’s rounded foot keeps it from scratching or scraping the sides and bottom of the utensils.
Pros
- Analog display
- Can be used for measuring oil temperature
- Easy to clean
- Accurate reading
Cons
- Measuring fluid may get stuck at times
- Some might find the material flimsy
"Thanks to the robust clip, I can depend on this thermometer to take readings when baking or making candy. I like its easy-to-read display, but I wish it were a bit longer to use with hot mixes. Still, it's very accurate and makes my culinary experiments fuss-free."
7. Best Versatile:GDealer Candy Thermometer
The versatile meat thermometer is perfect for making candies, chocolates, chicken, and barbeque right on point. It features a long metal probe of 4.45in with a thin tip, making it convenient to immerse in the cooking vessel. The thermometer measures the temperature ranging from 58° to 392°F in two to four seconds and is accurate to ±2°F.
According to the reviewers, it comes with a backlit LCD to read the temperature easily, even at night. It has a magnet that makes it easy to store in the refrigerator. The thermometer weighs 1.59oz, measures 9.3×1.7×0.8in, and has a ten-minute auto shut feature.
Pros
- High-quality, handy, and compact
- Easy to use and read
- Backlit screen
- Accurate reading
- Protective sheath included
- Long battery life
Cons
- Magnet could be weak
- May be fragile
Remember8. Best Battery-Operated:Taylor Precision Products Candy And Deep Fry Thermometer
The thermometer from Taylor Precision Products is designed to measure the temperature of sugar, oil, and other ingredients when making candy or fried items. The digital thermometer has an LCD screen and can be programmed to emit a green light when the contents have reached the desired temperature.
The thermometer also has a high-temperature range, making it an apt choice for candies with ingredients that heat at higher temperatures. Further, the battery-operated thermometer has a sturdy clip attachment and blunt ends to keep it from scratching your utensils.
Pros
- Back-lit display
- Can read temperatures up to 500°F
- Has a nine-inch stainless steel stem
- Attaches to curved and straight-walled pans
- Adjustable clip slide
Cons
- Some might find it bigger than expected
- Clip might need to be adjusted at regular intervals
"I've been using this digital thermometer for a while, and it has helped me cook everything from candy to Thanksgiving turkey. It also clips securely, and the beeping feature is thoughtful. All in all, it's user-friendly and does its job well."
9. Best Instant-Read:Kuluner Digital Thermometer
Kuluner’s digital thermometer gives the temperature reading of food in just a few seconds, making it a reliable option for your cooking and candy-making needs. Kuluner’s digital thermometer gives the temperature reading of food in just a few seconds, making it a reliable option for your cooking and candy-making needs.
The waterproof candy thermometer is easy to clean and allows you to switch between Celsius and Fahrenheit-based readings. Moreover, its bright and clear LCD screen and foam-lined storage box make this instant-read candy thermometer an ideal present for culinary enthusiasts of all ages.
Pros
- Can read temperatures up to 572℉
- IP67-rated waterproof function
- ABS plastic body can withstand fall
- 180-degree rotating probe
- Built-in magnet for easy storage
Cons
- LCD screen may not be fog-resistant
- Battery holder may be loose
"This thermometer has quickly earned its spot in my kitchen by giving precise and instant readings. Its waterproof and ergonomic build also made it comfortable to use. Moreover, the built-in temperature guide feels like a bonus."
10. Best Stainless Steel Probe:AikTryee Digital Instant Candy Thermometer
Used for candy making, deep frying, barbecuing, and grilling, the AikTryee versatile cooking thermometer is perfectly designed to deliver ±0.5? accurate readings in four to five seconds. Insert the probe in the food, and the reading locks for display even after removing it from the cooking container. It has a ten-minute auto-off function, which saves battery life.
The thermometer offers a wide temperature range of 58 to +572? and is useful in preparing various foods. It weighs 1.59oz, measures 9.5×0.98×0.62in, and has one battery.
Pros
- Easy to use
- Accurate measurements
- Protects hands from burning
- Long stainless steel probe
Cons
- May not be durable
11. Best With Large LCD:Maverick Digital Oil and Candy Thermometer
The digital candy thermometer allows you to measure temperature with 14 pre-programmed settings for candy making and deep-frying. When the ideal temperature is reached, it signals with a flash and beeps. The stainless steel probe of 10.5 inches can be inserted in the cooking pan, and the large LCD monitor will display the reading within seconds.
This candy thermometer with an auto shut-off feature of 3.5 minutes and a low battery indicator makes it energy-efficient and prevents unwanted battery drain. The thermometer also comes with a temperature guide to give you the necessary instructions about its handling. It weighs 5.6oz, measures 12.5×2.6×1.8in, has a strong clip to hold the thermometer in the pan steadily, and is powered by an AAA battery.
Pros
- Durable and sturdy metal frame
- Easy to read and use
- Accurate readings
- Has a temperature alarm
Cons
- Size could be too big
"Whether deep frying or candy making, this is my preferred thermometer. It's accurate, and the audio alerts make it easy to multitask in the kitchen. While I think the display could be clearer, its performance has been reliable."
12. Best Easy-To-Use: Smartro ST49 Instant Read Thermometer
The Smartro thermometer is a National Sanitation Foundation-certified device and uses advanced thermocouple technology for quick and precise temperature readings. It also sports a motion-sensing ambidextrous backlight display, making it easy to read the temperature from any angle.
You can also clean the thermometer with water and mild soap, as it has an IP67-waterproof rating. Besides, the lack of buttons and other complicated settings makes this thermometer suitable for people of all ages.
Pros
- Has a readout time of three seconds
- 4000 hours battery life
- Can read temperatures up to 572℉
- Magnetic back for easy storage
Cons
- May be slightly heavy
- May not be highly durable
"This thermometer quickly delivers temperature readings, and its display clarity is impressive. Though it was slightly bulkier than I had expected, it's proved more durable than other ones I've previously used. And its battery life has also proven long-lasting."
13. Best For Deep Frying:ThermoPro Digital Candy Thermometer
The candy thermometer with a long probe can be a great addition to your kitchen appliances, especially if you love to deep fry. This unique tool features an eight-inch-long probe that can be fastened at the edge of your pot without the fear of being splashed by hot liquid or oil. You will get a reading within five seconds, making it more accurate than an analog device. You can set it to Celsius or Fahrenheit and read the temperature easily thanks to the backlit digital display.
Pros
- Waterproof
- Durable
- Easy to clean
- 90-degree pivoting display
- Comes with a temperature reference chart
- NSF-certified
- CE-certified
- RoHS-certified
Cons
- May not be suitable for shallow vessels
- Clamp may not have a strong grip
"Having used this thermometer for months, I can vouch for its functionality. Its digital display also makes it easy to read, and the tight clip keeps it from wobbling even when I stir the pot. Overall, it has been an excellent addition to my kitchen tools."
14. Best Curved Stainless Steel Body:KitchenAid Curved Candy and Deep Fry Thermometer
The KitchenAid paddle-designed candy thermometer has a curved stainless steel body that aligns with the container’s sides to enable stirring and uniform heating. It has a silicon-coated adjustable clip on the back to fix at a single location as required. The paddle thermometer offers a temperature reading range of 100° to 400°F, weighs 7.2oz, and measures 0.7x4x14in.
Pros
- Precise readings
- Insulated handle
- Easy to use and read
Cons
- Could be big for some
- Numbers may rub off easily
"I like to make soaps and candles at home, so this thermometer has been an exceptional find. Besides, even though it is not digital, it gives precise readings and remains stable regardless of the pot I place it in."
15. Best Foldable:Doquas Digital Thermometer
The FDA-certified thermometer helps in making candies and toffees and grilling barbecue, steak, or chicken. It offers a wide range of temperature readings from -58° to 572°F with an accuracy of ±0.9°F. The 4.5-inch long probe is made of 304 stainless steel and has a bright backlight screen to offer a clear vision of the readings in the dark.
The foldable thermometer turns on when unfolded and off when folded. It also has a rotating display and a hold button to continuously display the reading after removing the thermometer from the cooking pan. The budget thermometer weighs 2.39oz and measures 6.5×1.61×1.02in.
Pros
- Reads temperature in three seconds
- Durable and waterproof
- Backlit display
- Magnetic back and hook for storage
- Ten-minute auto-shutoff feature
- CR2032 battery included
Cons
- Probe may pull out easily
- May not be precise
"It came with a dead battery that I had to replace. Still, once operational, the temperature probe has been very convenient, especially the auto-on/off feature when extending or folding. All in all, it has been able to take readings of all my dishes, and the built-in magnet is perfect for storage."
How To Choose The Right Candy Thermometer?
We have listed a few features to consider when buying a candy thermometer.
- Accuracy: When you are making candies at high temperatures, the thermometer’s accuracy is of prime importance. A calibration feature in a thermometer can prevent losing a good batch of candies to scorching heat. An accurate thermometer can allow you to monitor the temperature and make a perfect batch.
- Reading speed: Traditional candy thermometers take longer than digital thermometers to read the temperature. You would need a quick reading thermometer for candy making. Even a few seconds can make a lot of difference, and hence it is an essential parameter to consider.
- Ease of handling: An appropriately sized handle with a probe allows you to grip the thermometer properly while keeping your hand away from the heat.
- Pot clip: The conventional candy thermometers usually come with a pot-clip to monitor the temperature without using your hands. However, you must have enough space to stir the mixture for uniform heating and exact temperature measurement. The digital thermometers should have a long probe to keep away steam when stirring.
- Other Features: The rotating display can help you read the thermometer with convenience. You can also look for an automatic backlight to make cooking in low light convenient.
According to Alaina Bullock, an experienced product review blogger with expertise in recipes, “A good candy thermometer should have a wide temperature range and an easy-to-read display. The numbers should be large enough and easy to read while the thermometer is clipped to the side of the pan.”
[ Read : The First Years Digital Thermometer ]
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why should I calibrate the thermometer?
Calibration helps eliminate minor errors that may occur due to the difference in the actual temperature of your dish and the reading shown by the candy thermometer. Through calibration, you can know the accurate reading and can monitor the temperature accordingly.
2. How often should I calibrate the thermometer?
If you notice a bigger gap in the accuracy, i.e., higher than ±2°F, you need to recalibrate your candy thermometer. If you have to use the thermometer often, you will have to calibrate it regularly.
3. How can I know if my candy thermometer is accurate?
Always do the water test whenever you want to test the thermometer’s accuracy. When inserted in bubbling hot water, the thermometer is accurate if it reads 100 degrees celsius — the boiling point of water.
4. What’s the difference between a candy thermometer and a meat thermometer?
Candy thermometers have a more extended probe than their meat counterparts to protect the hands from burns. In addition, candy thermometers have a higher temperature threshold — 204 degrees celsius — than the meat ones.
5. Can I use a meat thermometer as a candy thermometer?
Yes, plenty of versatile meat thermometers can be used to make candies. Ideally, a thermometer that responds fast and reads accurately can be considered a good option. However, specific candy thermometers have pre-set temperatures for different stages of candy making.
6. Is a candy thermometer the same as a deep-fry thermometer?
Yes, a candy thermometer can also be used as a deep-fry thermometer.
7. What kind of thermometer should I use to temper chocolate?
When tempering chocolate, a food-grade instant-read or digital thermometer is better than an infrared thermometer for quicker reference.
Why Trust MomJunction?
Sakshi John takes a keen interest in writing about kitchen and household appliances and reviewing them. She brings you this list of the best candy thermometers after carrying out extensive research and reviewing the customer reviews from various ecommerce websites. The writer has also provided a buying guide to help you pick the right product that assists you when cooking.
The Bottom Line
Candy thermometers come in various designs and styles and with different features to ensure your candy preparation goes perfectly without a lot of temperature variation, which can make or break your dish. And the best candy thermometers provide you with fast and accurate readings and allow you to prepare picture-perfect treats every time. When buying one, consider the accuracy, reading speed, and ease of use so you can make an informed decision and be well on your way to becoming a skillful candy chef. Our top picks are the easy-to-use Thermopro TP-02S Instant Read Meat Thermometer, which provides instant results and the Smartro ST49 Instant Read Thermometer with backlit display and an IP67 waterproof rating. We also recommend the NSF-approved Lavatools Javelin Candy Thermometer for its quality battery.
Infographic: How To Use A Food Thermometer?
Every cook and baking enthusiast knows how important it is to add the ingredients at the right temperature for the dish to be perfect. Manually checking the heat levels can be dangerous as well as inaccurate. A food thermometer can eliminate all those issues. Follow the infographic to learn how you can use one.
Illustration: The Bridal Box Design Team
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