The Fireboard Spark: A Thermometer for the Tech-Savvy Cook


The Fireboard Spark is the latest addition to Fireboard Labs’ line of exceptional thermometers. Fireboard Labs has been a trusted name in the barbecue community for years, known for their innovative and high-quality products. With the Spark, the company has taken their expertise to the next level by introducing an instant-read thermometer that stands out from the rest. In this post, I’ll walk you through the unique features and capabilities that sets this thermometer apart from other instant-read thermometers on the market.

The FireBoard Spark is a top-of-the-line thermometer that provides very accurate and fast temperature readings. It has a special feature that allows you to leave the probe in while cooking, so you can track the temperature over time. It can connect to your smartphone through the FireBoard Mobile App, so you can keep an eye on the temperature even when you’re not in the kitchen. It also has WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity, as well as a cloud connection. This thermometer can measure temperatures ranging from -50 to 300 degrees Celsius and is accurate within 0.4°C or 0.7°F. It also comes with a one-year warranty. It is compact in size and lightweight, measuring 6.25W x 1.44H x 1.06D and weighing 0.31 lbs. Additionally, it has built-in external probe and the ability to synchronize with other Fireboard thermometers. It’s a great option, similar to the Thermapen but slightly slower.

Fireboard Spark Features

2.4 GHz Wi-FiBluetooth
Thermocouple SensorBack-lit display
NFTExternal Probe Port
USB chargedLCD Display

Key Points

  • The Fireboard Spark is a thermometer that not only provides instant temperature readings, but also has a built-in external probe port that is compatible with all standard Fireboard probes.
  • The Fireboard Spark has a feature called Auto Hold which automatically saves and sends the temperature reading to the cloud once it has stabilized.
  • The Fireboard Spark also has a feature called Sync mode, which allows multiple Fireboard Spark thermometers to work together and display the same temperature reading.
  • The Fireboard Spark has a user-friendly interface and its settings can be adjusted via the Fireboard App.
  • The Fireboard Spark’s display is easy to use for both left and right-handed individuals and is recharged through a USB-C port
  • The Fireboard Spark is slightly heavier and thicker than a Thermapen, but still provides accurate and fast temperature readings.
  • The Fireboard Spark has an IP66 rating which makes it resistant to dust and splashes, but not fully waterproof

Why Spark is Different from the Rest

The Spark is an instant-read thermometer that is different from any thermometer I have seen, or tested so far. It has unique features and capabilities that sets it apart from other instant-read thermometers on the market.

Not only is the Spark a regular instant-read thermometer, it also has a built-in probe port that can take any standard Fireboard probes, which allows you to track your data in the same way as other Fireboard devices. It also has a built-in NFC scanner, built-in haptic feedback, and magnets that allow you to mount it on your kitchen refrigerator.

One of the most exciting features of the Spark is the new “Sync Mode” which transforms it into a desktop display. This means you can monitor your Fireboard channels right from your desktop without having to pull out your phone.

The Spark also has cloud-based technology, which lets you chart and compare your previous cooks, take progress pictures, make notes, and even share with friends and family. And it also has an optional leave-in probe, allowing you to monitor your cook and still enjoy the party.

The app even connects to your Alexa or Google Assistant for hands-free monitoring.

Spark Specifications

High Temperature Range-58 to 572*F Low Temperature Range-50 to 300° F.
High Operating Range13 to 140° FLow Operating Range-25 to 60° C
SensorThermocoupleColoursRed or Black
Wi-Fi2.4 GHzDisplay Precision0.1° or 1°. 

NFC Scanner

The Spark is equipped with NFC scanner, which is just a fancy label reader that allows you to streamline labeling of instant-readings. This NFC technology makes getting instant readings super easy. Plus, it has this cool feature called SyncMode that lets you use it to keep an eye on other FireBoard devices. It’s like turning your device into a mini control center for all your other FireBoard stuff. The FireBoard Cloud helps make it happen, so you can watch everything from one spot, like a little command center on your countertop.

NFC, or Near Field Communication, is a way for devices to talk to each other wirelessly when they’re close together. Think of it like a secret handshake between your phone and another device. An NFC scanner is a tool that can read and write information to these types of devices, like smartphones or smart cards.

You might see NFC scanners in action at a store, where you can tap your phone to pay for something instead of swiping a card. Or maybe you’ve used one to unlock a door or get information from an NFC tag. These scanners can also be used in inventory management or tracking of goods, and even to control access to buildings or events.

NFC scanners can come in many different forms, they can be a software or a hardware, they can be built into your phone or be a separate device that you hold in your hand or that is fixed in one spot. But no matter what form they take, they all do the same thing – help devices talk to each other quickly and easily.

Size and Weight

The Spark has a length of 110 mm and a weight of 5 ounces (145 grams). The probe tip has a diameter of 1.5 mm, and the probe has a diameter of 3.5 mm. The display is a 192 x 64 LCD, and the leave-in probe port has a diameter of 2.5 mm.

Length110 mm Weight5oz (145g)
Probe Tip Diameter1.5 mmProbe Diameter3.5 mm
Display192 x 64 LCD Leave in Probe Port2.5 mm

Temperature and Operating Range

The Spark operating range of 13 to 140° F means that the thermometer can be used in temperatures within this range without any issues. In simpler terms, it means that the thermometer can work properly in temperatures between 13 and 140 degrees Fahrenheit.

The Spark temperature range of -58 to 572° F is the range of temperatures that the thermometer can measure. This means that the thermometer can accurately read temperatures between -58 and 572 degrees Fahrenheit. This wide range makes it useful for a variety of applications such as measuring the temperature of food, liquids, and other materials.

The low temperature range of -50 to 300° F and low operating range of -25 to 60° C is a specialized feature of the Spark thermometer. This means that the thermometer can measure and operate in very low temperatures, making it useful for specific applications such as measuring the temperature of freezers or refrigerated goods.

Probes

The Fireboard Spark has a port on the side, so you have the option to plug any of Fireboard’s probes into the thermometer directly. Fireboard Labs sell a variety of additional thermometer probes for that you can add-on, or replace for any Fireboard product.

These include small 1/2 inch competition probes, waterproof sous-vide probes, long probes, etc The Fireboard spark doesn’t come with any probes, however if you already have a Fireboard device, you can plug any of these probes into the Spark.  

Waterproof Rating

The Spark has a waterproof rating of IP66. This means that it can handle being sprayed with water from any direction and still keep working perfectly fine. This makes it great for any cooking situation, whether you’re working in a professional kitchen or just cooking at home.

It’s important to note that while the Spark is pretty waterproof, you shouldn’t submerge it or put it in a dishwasher. It can handle being sprayed with water, but it’s not meant to be fully submerged or run through a cycle in a dishwasher. So, just keep it away from the sink or dishwasher, and you’ll be good to go.

How Much Does Spark Cost?

The Fireboard Spark sells for about $150, which is more expensive than a Thermapen and other popular instant-reads on the market. Check the latest price on the Fireboard website here.

External Probe Capability

There’s no other instant-read thermometer on the market that can plug in an external probe. This means you can buy one of Fireboard’s external probes, and plug it into the side of the Fireboard Spark and read the temperatures. 

Instant-Read or Leave-In Thermometer? 

Since Fireboard Spark has that external probe, you can actually use it as a leave-in thermometer. As soon as you plug in the external probe, the temperature will display. This is a game-changer and the Thermapen doesn’t come anywhere near this sort of capability. 

Fireboard Product Launch

Two Readings At Once

The Spark has dual functions, so you can use it as an instant-read and leave-in thermometer at the same time. Even if you’re using the Spark as a “leave-in” thermometer through the through the external probe to monitor your meat temp, you can still use the Spark as an instant-read.

As soon as you fold out the probe, the LCD will automatically display a second temperature reading under the title “EXT” (external). The main font will be the instant-read temperature, while the external probe reading will move into a box under the title “EXT”. It’s straightforward and easy to identify the different probes on the display.  

Hi-Tech

As with all Fireboard thermometers, the Spark is very high tech. If you like the idea of merging of barbecue and technology, then you will love Fireboard products. The people at Fireboard Labs are geeks at heart. They are dedicated to producing products with lots of data, lots of tech. The Fireboard Spark is no exception.

How Many Instant-Reads Have Wi-Fi?

Another unique feature of the Fireboard Spark is the Wi-Fi capability. So if you’re monitoring a piece of meat on the Spark via an external probe, you’ll be able to access the Fireboard App on your phone and monitor the temperature of your Fireboard Spark remotely. So you could be at the store, but still keep track of your brisket via the App. 

As far as I know, there are no other thermometers on the market that can do this, and I guarantee the other companies will play catch up now and over the next few years. 

How To Setup And Use Spark

Synchronisation

Another really cool feature is the ability to synchronize the Spark with your other Fireboard thermometer. So if you are using one of the regular Fireboard thermometers with multiple probes, you can synchronize the Spark. Once connected, you will be able to scroll through and see the temperatures on the different probes on the Spark. 

Battery

I tested the Fireboard Spark on a full charge and left it overnight on a full brisket cook. Even after 15 or 16 hours, it still had some charge left. So this thermometer can do a long cook. To be safe, you can also plug the Spark into the USB C charger, and continue cooking while plugged in to the electrical socket.  

Design and Appearance

At first appearance, the spark looks exactly like any other instant read-thermometer, like the Thermapan or Javelin Pro. These thermometers open and close like a switchblade knife. When you pull open the probe, the display on the Spark automatically lights up. 

The Spark displays the temperatures readings in nice big fonts, so they’re easy to read from a distance. As you rotate the device, the temperature display also rotates with different viewing angles, so you don’t have to twist your head. This is a standard feature on most high- quality thermometers on the market. The great thing about this function is its ambidextrous—so if you’re left-handed, you can hold the Spark either way. 

The Spark has a large display, and an external USB-C port on the side where you can charge the thermometer. On the other side of the Spark, there’s a multi-purpose function button that gives you access to all the different settings on the Spark. There’s also a LED indicator showing the charge percentage, and a large LCD screen. On the back, the probe folds back and switches off. 

Spark Features

FeatureDescription
Probe PortA unique feature of Spark is there’s a probe port where you can plug into an external thermometer. I don’t know any other instant-reads on the market that have this ability.
Sleep ModeThe Spark has a time-out mode to save battery like. After 10 minutes, the screen will go blank. To wake up the Spark, all you need to do is pick it up and give it a little shake.
SizeThe Fireboard is very similar in size and shape of the Thermapen. The Spark is thicker than the Thermapen, and heavier.
SpeedWhen tested against the Thermapen, the Spark proved to be extremely accurate and fast. The Thermapen gives readings within 2 seconds.The Fireboard Spark gives readings in just over 2 seconds. So there’s not much of a difference.
NFC LabelsAnother cool feature of the Spark is the ability to scan wirelessly and apply NFC labels to each of your instant-read temperatures.
How To Turn Spark OnAs soon as you open the probe, the thermometer will automatically turn on. Alternatively, you can press the function button.
Setting and MenuTo access the menu and settings, all you need to do is long press the function button on the side of the device. Then, toggle between all the different menu selections and long hold the button to make selections.
Magnetic BackThe Spark has magnets on the back, so you can store the thermometer on the side of the fridge, alongside your smoker, or anywhere with a metal surface.
Set UpThe Spark setup is really easy. As soon as you extend the probe, the Spark will display temperatures immediately.
Haptic FeedbackThe Spark has instant haptic feedback alerts. This allows you to know if you’ve captured a temperature correctly. There’s also an NFC scanner. That way you can wirelessly apply NFC labels to each of your temperatures readings.
Sync ModeYou can use the Spark thermometer as a remote monitor for your other Fireboard devices such as the Fireboard 2, Fireball Drive, and the Fireboard Pro. You can do this via the Fireboard App.
The CloudThe Spark allows you to monitor your cooks from a remote location and lets you configure notifications. You can manage and share all your cooking sessions via the Fireboard App.
GraphingIf you have used Fireboard products before, you would know the company leads the way in terms of graphing and monitoring tracking cooks.

Where To Purchase The Spark

The best place to purchase the Spark is directly from Fireboard Labs. Check out the Fireboard website here.

Damien

Author and founder at Meat Smoking HQ

Recent Posts