15 Most Accurate Outdoor Thermometers
Even though modern smartphones can tell the weather, the most accurate outdoor thermometer is still a must-have in your garden and beloved outdoor space. But, how to tell if the thermometer is accurate? I will try to address all essential aspects of outdoor thermometers in my reviews and offer you 15 recommendations with proven accuracy.
But, let’s talk physics first and explain more about these handy tools!
Thermometer Types
The two thermometer types are digital and analog. In the past, people used analog devices, but nowadays the most accurate thermometers are digital ones.
Analog
Analog thermometer consists of a sealed glass tube filled half with a liquid such as mercury or alcohol. Nowadays, mercury is forbidden so the majority of analog devices use other liquids.
The bulb heats when the temperature increases, expands, and rises. Therefore, you can check the numeric and see the outside temperature.
Digital
Digital thermometers have integrated sensors in the device. Moreover, the most accurate digital thermometers include the readings of an independent, wireless sensor. You can place an additional sensor outside as well.
How to Check If the Outdoor Thermometer is Accurate?
The easiest way to check the accuracy is to test the thermometer with the ice bath. The accurate thermometer will show an accurate reading of 32 degrees Fahrenheit.
The procedure is the same with digital and analog devices – place the analog thermometer or digital sensor in the ice bath and see what temperature it will show. If the thermometer doesn’t show 32 degrees Fahrenheit, you need to calibrate it.
Let’s see this video to collect more understandings:
Can You Calibrate a Digital Thermometer?
You can calibrate all thermometers, including digitals. Some come with a simple reset button that allows you to reset the settings. If it doesn’t come with the reset button, use the glass of water and ice cubes. Place the thermometer inside the glass, making sure that the thermometer doesn’t touch the glass sides. Wait until it reaches 32 degrees Fahrenheit and “offset” it.
How Often Should I Calibrate a Thermometer?
The majority of thermometers need to be calibrated. The easiest way to find out when to calibrate your thermometer is to check the manufacturer’s recommendations.
If there aren’t any recommendations for calibration frequency, you can calibrate the thermometer once a month, especially if you need to take some important readings. On the other hand, you can calibrate it every couple of months if you only need to know the air temperature for dressing up!
Still, if the readings are valuable for your work projects, I recommend calibrating the thermometer before the project start and once you finish it.
Additionally, if the wind knocks the thermometer down on the ground, you should calibrate it to ensure accurate readings and proper operation.
Are Outdoor Thermometers Accurate?
Generally, outdoor thermometers are accurate and can offer a mistake of one degree up and down. Moreover, you can find many different thermometers on the market that monitor humidity and other weather conditions. Additionally, modern digital thermometers come with one or more sensors so you can keep track of the outdoor temperature in multiple locations.
What Can Indoor Outdoor Thermometer Use For?
Modern, so-called indoor outdoor thermometers are practical as they allow you to read the outside temperature indoors. Therefore, you don’t have to go outside in the garden to check the weather conditions. It is a great feature, especially if you live in an area with a harsh climate.
Can an Outdoor Thermometer be Used Indoors?
Analog and digital thermometers can be used both indoors and outdoors. However, if you want to use a thermometer outside, you need to check if it is waterproof and withstand extreme temperatures. Moreover, pay attention to the placement, and never place the thermometer in direct sunlight.
What Are The Most Accurate Outdoor Thermometers?
The most accurate outdoor thermometers are ThermoPro, Taylor, Miksus, and Bjerg Instruments devices. Still, my list includes some great options on the market featuring different styles, different materials, and sizes. Check my brief list of all the best outdoor thermometers.
- Best Overall – ThermoPro TP60S Outdoor Thermometer
“Can work with three remote sensors, powered by batteries, accurate and includes easy-to-read LCD screen, tells humidity level” - Best Budget – Taylor Aluminum Outdoor Thermometer
“Analog thermometer with a rust-proof aluminum body, accurate and versatile, can be hanged anywhere” - Best Decorative – Miksus Steel Outdoor Thermometer
“Elegant, vintage-style analog thermometer, can be mounted easily on the wall, has two scales” - Best for Patio – Bjerg Instruments 8-inch Outdoor Thermometer
“Durable construction with beautiful copper finish, includes two scales and hygrometer gauge, air-powered” - Best Digital – AcuRite 00782A2 Indoor and Outdoor Thermometer
“Digital thermometer with LCD screen and compact outdoor sensor, uses two batteries, frequent temperature updates” - Best with Hygrometer – Vivosun Digital Outdoor Thermometer
“Quality sensor with wide wireless range, can be used with multiple sensors for monitoring different locations, suitable for professional use” - Best for Garden – Taylor Precision 18-Inch Outdoor Thermometer
“Large, easy to read and stylish analog thermometer, accurate, double scale readings, simple mounting” - Best Thermometer and Clock – SmileMary Clock and Outdoor Thermometer
“Non-ticking durable clock mechanism, dual scale, waterproof, uses a standard battery, plastic frame” - Best for Nest – Marathon Electric 16-Inch Outdoor Thermometer
“Simple analog thermometer with both scales, plastic construction with thin red alcohol line, accurate and inexpensive” - Best Large – Brands Large Outdoor Thermometer
“Color-coded, 10-inch round analog thermometer with humidity readings, automatic calibration” - Best on a Stake – Teresa’s Collection Solar Lights with Outdoor Thermometer
“Interesting, owl-like design, works as garden decoration and accurate thermometer, includes solar lamps” - Best Wireless – La Crosse Technology Outdoor Thermometer and Forecast Station
“Comprehensive digital device tells temperature, humidity, trends, dates, uses five batteries” - Best Professional – ThermoPro TP65A Outdoor Thermometer
“Comes with a quality wireless sensor that tells the temperature and humidity in all weather conditions, keeps 24-hour records” - Best for Window – La Crosse WS1025 Outdoor Thermometer
“Comes with outdoor adhesive for easier mounting, large numbers, tells temperature in Fahrenheit, shows max and min records” - Best with Barometer – Ambient Weather BA212 Outdoor Thermometer
“Vintage-style comprehensive weather station, shows temperature in both scales, comfort level, humidity, and atmospheric pressure”
Most Accurate Thermometers Comparison Chart
Use my list as a visual guide through the most accurate outdoor thermometers. Compare them by their type, scales, temperature range, and use of batteries. For more information on each model, proceed to the in-depth reviews!
Most Accurate Outdoor Thermometers Reviews 2023
Find all essential information on the most accurate outdoor thermometers. Check the devices with additional features and find out which one will be perfect for your outdoor space.
ThermoPro TP60S Outdoor Thermometer
(Best Overall)
ThermoPro is a quality thermometer you can use indoors and outdoors. It has a large, easy to read LCD screen and deliver. You can connect it to three remote sensors for the most accurate readings.
The range is 200 feet. Further, it is powered by four AAA batteries. Conveniently, the battery is included so the ThermoPro thermometer model TP60S comes ready to use.
You can place the remote sensors in the garden, and mount the screen in an easily accessible place. It can be the wall of your garden house.
The device also tracks the humidity levels and delivers minimum and maximum values.
Product specifications:
Brand | ThermoPro |
Temperature range | -4°F~158°F |
Sensors range | 200 feet |
Humidity range | Humidity range: 10% ~ 99% |
Dimensions | 3.1 x 2.6 x 1 inches |
Key features:
- Shows accurate temperature and humidity levels
- Records minimal and maximal values in the past 24 hours
- 200 ft. range
Pros
- Seamless accuracy
- The large screen is easy to read
- Can be placed on the shelf or wall-mounted
- Batteries included
- Easy to set up
Cons
- The batteries are challenging to insert
- It needs frequent batteries replacements
Watch this video to know more about the product:
Taylor Aluminum Outdoor Thermometer
(Best Budget)
If you want to know the weather in your garden and are on a budget, please consider the Taylor vertical thermometer. The body is sturdy and made from aluminum. It is great because it makes it weather-proof and rustproof.
Moreover, the Tailor thermometer includes both Celsius and Fahrenheit scales and easy to hang wherever you want.
The white body is easily noticeable in all environments, and the numbers are well marked. It is of high accuracy and great for outdoor use. Besides, you can use it as a replacement thermometer for decorative units due to its plain design.
Product specifications:
Brand | Taylor |
Temperature range | -60F To 120F / -50C To 50C |
Material | Aluminum |
Dimensions | 1 x 3.75 x 12 inches |
Key features:
- Aluminum body
- Rustproof
- Two scales included
Pros
- Inexpensive
- Easy to mount
- Portable
- Easy to test the accuracy
- Durable
Cons
- The numbers are a bit small
- Dull design
Miksus Steel Outdoor Thermometer
(Best Decorative)
The Miksus thermometer features an elegant design with a beautiful bronze finish. You are supposed to mount it on the wall, and it looks great on all balconies, garden house walls, and other outdoor spaces.
The thermometer is accurate and has both Fahrenheit and Celsius scale. The numbers seem a bit small. But, once you get closer to them, you won’t have issues reading them.
The Miksus thermometer is the analog type and doesn’t require batteries or another power source to work. It is made from steel for prolonged use and weatherproof design.
You can mount it within minutes because it comes pre-drilled.
Product specifications:
Brand | Miksus |
Dimensions | 10 x 1 x 1 inches |
Weight | 1 ounce |
Power source | Air powered |
Key features:
- Vintage style thermometer
- Bronze finish
- Double scale
Pros
- Stylish design
- Easy to mount
- Excellent idea for a gift
- Bolded numbers
Cons
- You might need to calibrate the thermometer first
- The numbers are not noticeable from a distance
Bjerg Instruments 8-Inch Outdoor Thermometer
(Best for Patio)
This Bjerg Instruments outdoor thermometer features durable construction with a beautiful copper finish. The entire thermometer has an 8-inch diameter, and the dial face is 5.5 inches. Inside the dial face, you can easily read the temperature expressed in the Fahrenheit scale. The Celsius scale is in the inner circle, and you can only read it from close.
This Bjerg Instruments thermometer features a hydrometer gauge, and the scale is positioned at the bottom of the unit.
Overall, the thermometer looks stylish and provides accurate humidity and air temperature readings. I would place it on my patio, to get information on the air temperature and to add interesting and stylish details.
Product specifications:
Brand | Bjerg Instruments |
Dial face diameter | 5.5 inch |
Hygrometer gauge | Yes |
Weight | 15.2 ounces |
Key features:
- Has the hygrometer gauge
- Copper finish
- Shows temperature in Fahrenheit and Celsius
Pros
- Stylish design
- Accurate readings
- Easy to mount due to slot on the backside
- Easy to read
Cons
- Can get fogged
- You need to adjust it from time to time
Watch this video to know more about the product:
AcuRite 00782A2 Indoor and Outdoor Thermometer
(Best Digital)
If you are looking for a versatile, easy to use digital thermometer, please consider this compact AcuRite thermometer.
You can use it both indoors and outdoors and it comes with a bright LCD screen. The AcuRite tells air temperature readings in Fahrenheit.
It is equipped with a compact outdoor, weather-proof sensor, which is straightforward to place. Further, you can mount the LCD screen on the wall or place it on the shelf.
The wireless range for sensor and screen is 100 feet, so it is suitable for smaller gardens and yards. Moreover, it comes with a 1-year warranty and an affordable price tag.
Product specifications:
Brand | AcuRite |
Warranty | 1-year |
Sensors range | 100 feet |
Temperature update | Every 60 seconds |
Key features:
- Compact outdoor sensor
- Wall-mounting enabled
- Multiple locations temperature monitoring enabled
Pros
- Compact and easy to place
- The screen is easily readable
- Affordable
- Updates the temperature report every 60 seconds
Cons
- Only tells readings in Fahrenheit
- The LCD screen isn’t backlit
Watch this video to know more about the product:
Vivosun Digital Outdoor Thermometer
(Best with Hygrometer)
Knowing accurate air temperature and humidity levels are important for agriculture and devoted gardening. This VivoSun digital thermometer is useful for those purposes but also makes a useful household device.
It is very accurate and has plenty of useful features. First of all, the LCD screen is touchscreen and backlit with large values, so you won’t struggle reading it.
The VivoSun digital thermometer comes with a wireless sensor for temperature and humidity that you can place maximally 200 feet from the screen. Therefore, it can be a good choice for larger gardens.
Moreover, the device comes with a 1-year warranty and one sensor, but you can connect it with up to three sensors.
Product specifications:
Brand | Vivosun |
Wireless range | 200 feet |
Warranty | 1-year |
Temp Accuracy | ± 1.5°F/± 1°C |
Humidity accuracy | ±5% |
Key features:
- Backlit LCD screen
- Multiple mounting options
- Record maximal and minimal values of temperature and humidity
Pros
- It has a low battery indicator
- It can be used for monitoring multiple locations
- Includes trend indicator for easier understanding of the data
- Suitable for professional use
- The screen has a 12-second auto-off function
Cons
- Batteries don’t last long
- Pairing the sensors and screen can be challenging
Taylor Precision 18-Inch Outdoor Thermometer
(Best for Garden)
This Taylor Precision thermometer is large, and you can even tell the temperature readings from a large distance. You can easily hang it on a tree or mount it on the wall of your garden house.
The thermometer has a wide temperature range, from -60°F to 120°F, and includes both scales.
Moreover, it is weather-resistant, has a shatter-free lens, and includes a 1-year warranty.
The thermometer can be mounted anywhere on the wall with two built-in hangers on the backside.
I especially like bolded, large numbers that can even be seen from 30 feet away. However, if you want to read the scale in Celsius, you must get closer.
Product specifications:
Brand | Taylor Precision |
Diameter | 18-inch |
Warranty | 1-year |
Material | Metal |
Key features:
- Oversized dial for better visibility
- Wide temperature range
- Water-resistant
Pros
- Easy to read
- Stylish
- Accurate readings in all weather conditions
- Durable and sturdy construction
Cons
- Comes in poor packaging
- It can be challenging to hang it
SmileMary Clock and Outdoor Thermometer
(Best Thermometer and Clock)
Having a 2-in-1 clock and thermometer is practical. This SmileMary unit tells both the time and air temperature. The clock numbers are large and can be seen from a distance, while temperature readings are quite small. Still, the readings are available in both scales, which is always a plus.
The unit has a durable Quartz clock mechanism and doesn’t produce annoying ticking sounds. Moreover, it is waterproof and durable, despite plastic construction.
The lens is flat and easy to wipe clean the dust or outdoor dirt.
Besides, it is a risk-free purchase because it includes a 30-days return policy and a 1-year warranty on the mechanism.
Product specifications:
Brand | SmileMary |
Clock mechanism | Quartz |
Battery type | Standard Carbon Zinc battery |
Warranty | 1-year |
Key features:
- 2-in-1 device – clock and thermometer
- Dual thermometer scale
- Analog thermometer and Quartz clock mechanism
Pros
- Durable
- Large clock numbers
- The clock battery lasts long
- Retro style
- Waterproof
Cons
- Thermometer readings are small
- Plastic frame
Marathon Electric 16-Inch Outdoor Thermometer
(Best for Nest)
Vertical thermometers are staying in the past because they can be as accurate as all other types and styles of thermometers. This Marathon vertical thermometer is a 16-inch long simple thermometer with accurate readings. It has a plain design and tells the readings on both scales.
Further, the Marathon thermometer has wide temperature readings and is the simplest thermometer on the market. Still, it is a durable thermometer that will last you for a long time.
The thermometer comes with two screws for wall-mounting.
Besides, plastic and glass construction makes it lightweight and inexpensive.
Product specifications:
Brand | Marathon Electric |
Dimensions | 16.61 x 2.6 x 0.39 inches |
Material | Plastic, glass |
Waterproof | Yes |
Key features:
- Simple, analog thermometer
- Long vertical thermometer
- Dual scale reading
Pros
- Simple to use
- It comes with all you need for wall mounting
- Mercury-free
- Water-resistant
Cons
- It is challenging to read unless you are standing directly in front of it
- Read alcohol is thin
Brands Large Outdoor Thermometer
(Best Large)
Large thermometers are great because you can place them wherever you want and read them from a distance. This Brands thermometer has an inner diameter of 10 inches. The numbers are bolded and easy to read.
Moreover, it features humidity readings, as well. It is suitable for use in all weather conditions, and you can always expect accurate readings.
The design is environmentally friendly, and the thermometer doesn’t require batteries. It is a durable, weather, and waterproof thermometer that will look great anywhere you place it.
Once you receive your Brands thermometer, you can give it two or three hours to calibrate automatically, and it is ready to use.
Product specifications:
Brand | Brands |
Diameter | 10-inch |
Humidity range | 0% – 100% |
Available colors | Black and white |
Key features:
- Round analog thermometer
- It includes humidity readings
- Automatic calibration
Pros
- Large numbers
- It doesn’t use a battery
- Can be used indoors and outdoors
- Elegant design
- Waterproof
- Color-coded
Cons
- Slow humidity updates
- The white model is hard to clean
Teresa’s Collection Solar Lights with Outdoor Thermometer
(Best on a Stake)
Stake thermometers are great for gardens. They are practical and decorative, and if it seems like something you might be interested in, consider this stake thermometer by Teresa’s Collection. Not only is it an accurate thermometer, but also it features an interesting, owl-like design with solar lights.
The heavy-duty iron construction will last for numerous seasons. The thermometer tells readings in Celsius and Fahrenheit.
The thermometer is easy to install. All you have to do is place it wherever you want in the ground. However, keep in mind that the thermometer shouldn’t be in direct sunlight. Still, the seven solar lights will work even if you put the unit in the shade.
Product specifications:
Brand | Teresa’s Collection |
Material | Iron |
Dimensions | 11 x 4 x 39 inches |
Water-resistant | Yes |
Key features:
- Beautiful gardening decoration
- Seven solar lights
- Waterproof iron construction
Pros
- Interesting design
- It doesn’t require batteries or cables
- Simple installation
- Durable
Cons
- The thermometer is small
- Heavier
La Crosse Technology Outdoor Thermometer and Forecast Station
(Best Wireless)
If you want to utilize the technology development and invest more money in your thermometer, I recommend this La Crosse comprehensive weather station.
It is one of the most accurate wireless thermometers on the market, and it has other convenient features.
The station shows outdoor and indoor temperature, humidity, time, date, temperature trends. It also includes an alarm.
Further, the large screen is easy to divide into easily visible categories. The screen is backlit and has a modern design with multiple mounting options.
I especially like the trend indicator, which is useful because you can prepare for the expected temperature (and humidity) changes in the next few hours.
Product specifications:
Brand | La Crosse |
Warranty | 1-year |
Transmission range | 300 feet |
Humidity range | 10% – 99% |
Key features:
- Digital wireless thermometer and hygrometer
- Shows indoor and outdoor readings
- Backlit screen with adjustable brightness
Pros
- A comprehensive review of weather conditions
- Contemporary design
- Record maximal and minimal values
- Large transmission range
- Works on extreme temperature
Cons
- Pricey
- It uses five batteries in total
ThermoPro TP65A Outdoor Thermometer
(Best Professional)
People who are in agriculture need reliable and accurate thermometers to see valuable insights about the weather. The ThermoPro thermometer, model TP65A is one of the best digital thermometers on the market.
It comes with wireless sensors and a large, backlit LCD screen. You can read the temperature in both scales and see the level of relative humidity as well. Moreover, you can connect it with three outdoor sensors, but you get one with the screen.
Next, the thermometer keeps track of maximum and minimum records in the last 24 hours. The range is large up to 200 feet, and the screen has multiple mounting options.
Product specifications:
Brand | ThermoPro |
Transmission range | 200 feet |
Screen size | 4-inch |
Humidity gauge | Yes |
Key features:
- Has a humidity gauge
- Keeps records of last 24 hours
- Touch screen LCD
Pros
- The backlit screen is easy to read in all conditions
- Easy to use
- Displays temperature and humidity trends
- It works in extreme conditions
- Cost-effective – batteries are rechargeable
Cons
- The magnetic strips for mounting the station are of poor quality
- The backlit button has inconvenient placement
La Crosse WS1025 Outdoor Thermometer
(Best for Window)
La Crosse digital thermometer comes with outdoor adhesive strop for sturdy window mounting. It has a large screen and large numbers. You can see the current temperature, and compare it to maximum and minimal records in 24 hours.
The device is specifically created to be mounted flat against the window. It has a weather-resistant body, and UV protection.
This La Crosse device allows you to read the outside temperature from the inside.
Further, the device has a wide temperature range and uses only one battery.
Besides, when you want to clean the window, it is easy to detach and put it back after you finish.
Product specifications:
Brand | La Crosse |
Size | 0.75 x 3.75 x 4 inches |
Warrant | 1-year |
Temperature accuracy | +/-1. 5F |
Key features:
- Comes with adhesive for mounting
- Weather-resistant
- UV-protected
Pros
- Easy to mount against the wall
- Clear screen and large numbers are easy to read
- Accurate readings
- Tells minimum and maximum records
- Long battery runtime
Cons
- The screen isn’t backlit
- Choosing the appropriate location can be challenging
- Doesn’t have a Celsius scale
Watch this video to know more about the product:
Ambient Weather BA212 Outdoor Thermometer
(Best with Barometer)
The Ambient Weather device is a comprehensive, vintage-style weather station that shows temperature, humidity, and atmospheric pressure. Therefore, you can get a full weather review for the Ambient Weather outdoor thermometer.
You can use it to predict the stormy weather on time, and protect your plants on time. It can be used both indoors and outdoors.
The device has a compact design, so the scales are a bit small. Still, it is very accurate.
Moreover, the Ambient Weather device comes with a comforter, which measures the comfort using the data from temperature and humidity readings.
Product specifications:
Brand | Ambient Weather |
Dimensions | 6.5 x 6 x 18 inches |
Warranty | 1-year |
Weight | 1.8 pounds |
Key features:
- Tells temperature, humidity, atmospheric pressure, and comfort
- Cherry finish
- Includes both scales
Pros
- Stylish
- Compact
- Durable
- It doesn’t require maintenance
- Can be used for advanced weather forecasting
Cons
- Small readings
- Instructions are a bit indefinite
Outdoor Thermometer Buying Guide
Even if you aren’t an expert in the weather forecast, you probably know that accuracy is factor number one you need to consider when buying an outdoor thermometer. But, let’s see what other factors you need to keep in mind when shopping for your outdoor thermometer.
Accuracy
The thermometer needs to be accurate to fulfill its function. The accuracy comes within a fair limit:
- Temperature: ±2°F
If your thermometer has a hygrometer gauge, the acceptable limit is:
- Humidity: ±5%
Therefore, consider thermometers that have accuracy within these values. You can always test the thermometer once you buy it. The majority of companies have a return policy if you aren’t satisfied and if you cannot calibrate the thermometer.
Type
First, decide whether you want a digital or analog thermometer. If you want a remote report on temperature, you might want to consider the digital thermometer. Moreover, if you need to monitor several locations, a digital thermometer might be a better option.
On the other hand, analog thermometers are more affordable, decorative, and easy to use. You don’t have to worry about batteries.
Additional Features
Let’s take a closer look at some useful features you should look for in a thermometer.
- Hygrometer Gauge
If you need a thermometer for agriculture, I recommend getting the one that tells the humidity. That way, you get comprehensive data that will allow you to take proper care of your plants. Moreover, you will be familiar with the feeling once you go outside.
- Additional Data
Modern digital thermometers collect the data from the past 24 hours so you can access them. Therefore, you can see the maximum and minimum values, as well as the temperature trends. For example, the thermometer can show you the tendency of raising or falling.
- Multiple Sensors
Digital thermometers have the option to connect with multiple outdoor sensors. That way, you can monitor more locations and see the temperature changes.
Still, the majority of wireless thermometers come with a single sensor, and you can purchase additional sensors separately.
- Mounting Options
Think about where you would place your thermometer. Do you plan to keep it in your garden or on the patio? Find the one that can be easily mounted on the wall or hanged. Additionally, there are some great options on the market with decorative thermometers on a stake. Still, you need to check the accuracy of these thermometers.
- Size
Large thermometers are easier to read from a distance. These usually have a large dial and bolded numbers, and you can read them from inside as well.
If you need a compact thermometer, keep in mind that the scales will only be visible once you get close to them.
- Scales
The international scales for measuring air temperature are Fahrenheit and Celsius. Which one do you prefer? For practical reasons, I recommend you to find the thermometer that tells the readings on both scales.
FAQs
Let’s talk more about outside thermometers in general and answer some of the questions you might have. For more answers, feel free to ask me in the comments!
Verdict
ThermoPro TP60S is the most accurate outdoor thermometer, and I would gladly place its wireless sensors in my garden to monitor a larger area. This digital thermometer shows additional data and comes with a large screen.
Moreover, you can connect it with multiple sensors, and synchronization is simple. Therefore, you can build your comprehensive weather station and use it for professional purposes.
You will always know what to expect when you go outside!
Have you tried thermometers from my list? If so, please share your experience, and share the list with your friends who might find it useful!