For years now, the ThermoPro TP-20 has been the number one selling wireless meat thermometer on Amazon. If you are new to low-and-slow cooking, then the TP-20 is the thermometer I recommend. Nowadays there are dozens of new hi-tech meat thermometers, but the ThermoPro TP-20 is still in the conversation for the best meat thermometer because of its reliability, accuracy, durability and affordability.
The ThermoPro TP-20 is a wireless duel-probe meat thermometer with an alarm function that alerts you when your meat has reached the desired internal temperature, and the second probe can be used on another piece of meat, or can measure the grill temperature so you can keep track of the ambient temperature of your charcoal smoker, pellet grill or offset smoker.
Key Points
- The ThermoPro TP-20 is a two-probe remote thermometer with a timer function
- It comes with one transmitter unit and one receiver unit, as well as two probes and a grill clip
- The temperature display on the transmitter toggles back and forth between probe 1 and probe 2, displaying the temperatures in either ºF or ºC
- The receiver displays both temperatures simultaneously, in either Fahrenheit or Celsius
- The thermometer allows you to set alarm temperatures for each probe using either the USDA recommendations or a setting of your choice
- The thermometer has a built-in timer function that can be used as a countdown or count-up timer
- The thermometer is powered by 4 AAA batteries, which are included
- The thermometer should be kept dry and away from open flames
- Probes that fail within the warranty period (one year) will be replaced free of charge
- User manual is reasonably complete and clearly written
- The manufacturer also provides contact information, including a telephone number and email address, in case of problems
There’s a Reason the TP20 is Most Popular Thermometer on Amazon
I’ve been using the ThermoPro TP-20 remote thermometer at home for a number of years now, and overall, it’s a solid piece of equipment. The two probes allow me to monitor both my food and my cooker temperatures at the same time, and the wireless remote feature gives me the flexibility to move around while I’m cooking.
The rubberized coating on both the sender and receiver units is a nice touch, and it’s protected my thermometer from drops and other mishaps. The temperature display on the sender unit toggles back and forth between the two probes, which is helpful. The receiver unit also displays both temperatures simultaneously, which I appreciate.
One downside I’ve found is that the transmitter doesn’t have a backlight feature, which can be a bit difficult to read in low light. I’ve also found the cable on the probes to be on the short side, so it’s not ideal for outdoor barbecue use.
The thermometer has an alarm feature that lets you set temperatures using either the USDA recommendations or your own preferences, but it’s worth noting that the alarm only has an upper limit, so it’s somewhat limited in its use as a cooker monitor.
The up/down timer function is also handy, allowing me to keep track of cook time and make sure I’m on schedule. The manufacturer doesn’t specify the range between the units, but there is an alarm if communications are lost for more than 4 minutes.
The build quality is good for home use, and the probes are durable. They come with a one-year warranty, and if they fail within that period, they’ll be replaced free of charge. The user manual is complete and easy to understand, which I appreciate.
Overall, the ThermoPro TP-20 is a reliable thermometer that has served me well. It’s basic, but it gets the job done and is reasonably priced. If you’re looking for a basic remote thermometer for home use, this is definitely worth considering.
The TP-20 keeps it simple and can be used out of the box. You don’t need to spend hours reading the manual or watching videos to figure out how it works. It’s also one of the most reliable thermometers on the market, and will give you highly accurate readings.
ThermoPro TP-20 Specs
| Feature | Value |
|---|---|
| Price | $60-$70 |
| Units | 1 x Receiver and 1x transmitter |
| Duel-Probe | 2 x 4-inch probes, 4mm thick, with 2 x 40-inch (1m) heat-proof probe cables and a grill clip |
| Wireless | Radio Frequency (RF) |
| Accuracy | ±1.8°F (±1°C) |
| Temperature Range | 32°F (0°C.) to 572°F (300°C) |
| Range | up to 300 feet from the food |
| Temperature Display | Fahrenheit and Celsius |
| Presets | Pre-programmed USDA meat temperatures |
| Timer | Countdown/Count Up |
| Backlight | Display illuminates for night visibility |
| Power | 4 x AAA batteries included |
Thermocouple Sensors: The Key to Accurate Temperature Readings on the TP-20
The probes of the ThermoPro TP-20 remote thermometer have thermocouple sensors. A thermocouple is a type of temperature sensor that uses two different metals that are joined together at one end. When the junction between the two metals is heated or cooled, a small electrical voltage is generated.
This voltage can then be used to determine the temperature at the tip of the probe. The main advantage of thermocouple sensors is that they are able to measure very high temperatures, up to 572°F (300°C) in the case of the TP-20, making them ideal for monitoring temperatures in a smoker or barbecue pit.
Another advantage of thermocouples is that they are very fast and responsive, able to quickly and accurately measure temperature changes. They are also resistant to wear and tear, and can withstand harsh environments, such as high heat or exposure to moisture.
The Range of the ThermoPro TP-20: How it Measures Up
I can attest to the range of the ThermoPro TP-20 remote thermometer. The manufacturer specifies that the receiver can display temperatures up to 300 feet away from the food. This range is more than sufficient for monitoring temperatures in a backyard smoker or barbecue pit. It allows me to move around while cooking, check on the meat temperature while preparing other tasks, and even step away from the pit if I need to.
However, it’s important to note that there can be factors that can affect the range of the TP20, such as physical obstacles like walls and metal surfaces, or other wireless devices that may be operating in the same frequency range. Additionally, the manufacturer does not specify the range between the units, which it could be impacted by the environment.
Setting the Alarms on the TP-20: How to Ensure Safe Cooking
I rely heavily on the alarms of my ThermoPro TP-20 remote thermometer to ensure that my meats are cooked to perfection. The TP-20 allows you to set alarms for each probe, using either the USDA recommended temperatures or a temperature of your choice.
To set the alarms, all you need to do is follow these steps:
- Turn on the thermometer and select the probe you want to set the alarm for.
- Press the “SET” button on the receiver to enter the settings menu.
- Use the “UP” and “DOWN” buttons to select “ALARM SET” and press the “SET” button again to enter the alarm settings.
- Select “MEAT TYPE” to set the alarm based on the USDA recommended temperatures or select “MANU” to set a custom temperature.
- Use the “UP” and “DOWN” buttons to set the desired temperature and press the “SET” button to confirm.
- Repeat these steps for the second probe if desired.
Once the alarms are set, the thermometer will give you an audible and visible alarm when the temperature reaches the set threshold. The backlight will illuminate and the display temperature will flash, and an alarm beep will sound. You can silence the alarm by pressing the “SET” button. Additionally, it will record the max/min temperature of each probe which can be accessed by pressing the “HOLD” button, allowing you to check the temperature range during the cooking process.
The TP-20 Pre-programmed with the USDA Recommended Temperatures
I know the importance of cooking meats to the right temperature in order to ensure food safety and achieve the desired level of doneness. The ThermoPro TP-20 remote thermometer comes pre-programmed with the USDA recommended temperatures for a variety of meats, including beef, pork, chicken, turkey, and more.
For Beef, Pork and Lamb, the USDA recommends an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) with a three-minute rest time for safety. For ground meats, the USDA recommends cooking to 160°F (71°C) to kill any harmful bacteria.
For poultry, the USDA recommends a minimum internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for chicken, turkey, duck and goose.
Additionally, the Tp20 also includes a variety of preset temperatures for other types of meats such as veal, fish, and hamburgers.
It’s important to note that these are only guidelines and that personal preference, cooking methods and even the cut of meat can affect what temperature you want to reach. The Tp20 also allows you to set a custom temperature alarm, which can be helpful if you want to cook your meats to a specific temperature that is not included in the preset options.
The Accuracy of the ThermoPro TP-20: Putting it to the Test
As a backyard pitmaster, I can attest to the accuracy of the ThermoPro TP-20 remote thermometer. The manufacturer specifies that the thermometer has been tested to be within ±1.8°F (±1°C) of the actual temperature.
In my experience using the TP20, the accuracy of the thermometer has been consistently within that range. The thermometer’s dual-probe design allows me to monitor the temperature of two different meats at the same time, which is a huge advantage, and the wireless range allows me to move around my pit without losing track of the temperature.
However, it’s important to note that the accuracy of any thermometer can be affected by various factors such as the environment and the proper calibration of the thermometer. It’s always best to verify the accuracy of your thermometer by using a calibrated reference thermometer.
Build Quality of the ThermoPro TP-20: What to Expect
The build quality and sturdiness of the ThermoPro TP-20 remote thermometer is excellent. The thermometer is constructed with a rubberized covering on both the transmitter and receiver units that protect the thermometer from damage from drops.
The thermometer is lightweight, with a weight of 9.1 oz, making it easy to handle and take with you wherever you go. The probes are well-built, 4mm in diameter and are 4 inches long with a 40-inch heat-proof probe cable and a grill clip which allows me to hang it on my pit while smoking. The probes are flexible enough that they can be bent and positioned where I need them to be.
The thermometer also comes with a well-written manual that gives you a clear step-by-step instructions on how to use it. And the thermometer has a one-year warranty, which is a nice peace of mind.
Overall, I would say that the ThermoPro TP20 is a sturdy and reliable thermometer that has proven to hold up well over time. The rubberized covering provides good protection against accidental drops, the probes are well built and durable and the thermometer’s lightweight design makes it easy to handle. The manufacturer also stands behind the product with a 1-year warranty which is a nice added protection.
Affordability of the ThermoPro TP-20: A Great Value for the Price
I know that the cost of a thermometer can vary widely depending on the features and build quality. The ThermoPro TP-20 remote thermometer offers a good balance of features and affordability, making it an excellent value for the price.
The TP-20 retails for around $55 – $60 which is a fraction of what some other more expensive thermometers cost. And even though it has a more affordable price point, the thermometer does not skimp on features. It comes with two probes, a timer, and it has pre-programmed USDA recommended temperatures. All of which are features that are typically found in more expensive models.
It’s also important to consider that the accuracy of the thermometer, which is specified by the manufacturer to be within ±1.8°F (±1°C) of the actual temperature, is within industry standards and that the thermometer also has a one year warranty which provide added value for the cost.
ThermoPro TP-20: The Perfect Beginner Thermometer
The ThermoPro TP-20 remote thermometer is ideal for beginners to smoking meat and low and slow cooking for a few reasons:
- Ease of use: The TP-20 is straightforward and easy to use, even for those new to smoking meat. The thermometer comes with a clear and concise user manual, and the instructions are simple to follow. The thermometer also has preset temperatures for a variety of meats, which is a great help for beginners, who might not know the ideal temperature for different types of meats.
- Dual-probe design: The thermometer comes with two probes, which allows for monitoring the temperature of two different meats at the same time, which is particularly helpful for beginners who are still learning the ins and outs of smoking meat.
- Wireless feature: The wireless feature allows the user to move around while still monitoring the meat’s temperature, this is particularly useful for beginners who might not want to stay next to the pit all the time.
- Timer function: The thermometer also has a timer function which can be set to count up or count down, This feature can be helpful for beginners who may not be able to keep track of the cooking time easily.
- Affordable: The TP20 is relatively affordable, It’s a great value for the price and its a good starting point for beginners to see if smoking meat is something they are interested in without committing
Duel Probe Thermometers: How the TP-20 Measures Up
The dual-probe thermometers are extremely important for smoking meat because they allow for monitoring the temperature of two different meats at the same time. This can be extremely beneficial for several reasons:
- Temperature control: Smoking meats at low temperatures for long periods of time requires precise temperature control. With a dual-probe thermometer, you can monitor the temperature of two different meats and make adjustments as needed to ensure that both meats are cooked to perfection.
- Efficiency: Having the ability to monitor the temperature of two different meats at the same time can save time and effort. It allows you to multitask and ensure that your meats are being cooked properly, without having to constantly check on them individually.
- Cooking different meats: Different types of meats require different cooking temperatures and times, With a dual-probe thermometer, you can monitor the temperature of two different types of meats at the same time, which can be a great help when smoking different types of meat.
- Monitoring the pit: If you are using the probe to monitor the pit, you can use the second probe to monitor your meat and ensure that it’s cooking at the right temperature.
TP-20 and the TP 19 Instant-Read
I can say that the ThermoPro TP-19 and the TP-20 are both great thermometers for smoking meats and low and slow cooking, but they serve different purposes.
The TP-20 is a wireless remote thermometer that comes with two probes, which allows for monitoring the temperature of two different meats at the same time. It also has a timer function and pre-programmed USDA recommended temperatures. This makes it a great tool for monitoring the temperature of your pit and your meats while they’re cooking.
The TP-19, on the other hand, is an instant read thermometer that gives you a quick and accurate temperature reading in just 2-3 seconds. This makes it a great tool for checking the internal temperature of your meats during the cooking process.
While the TP-20 allows you to monitor the temperature of your pit and your meats without having to be right next to them all the time, the TP-19 is important for double checking the temperature of the meats during the cooking process. The instant-read thermometer gives you the precise temperature of the meat at a specific moment, for example, when you take a sample from a brisket to check for the “bend” test, or to check when the meat is ready to be pulled from the smoker.
Receiver and Remote
The TP-20 is a two-piece device with a base unit and a remote unit. The two units connect automatically when switched on and don’t need any setup. The two units are protected by a rubber case that will protect the thermometer from minor knocks and splashes.
Wireless Radio Frequency
Newer meat thermometers use Wi-Fi or Bluetooth to relay signals, the TP-20 uses Radio Frequency (RF). The RF signal is reliable and has a 300 foot range, and unlike Bluetooth thermometers, the signal doesn’t drop out between the walls of your house.
The TP-20 Display: User-Friendly and Easy to Read
The display on the receiver shows the temperature of the two probes in either Fahrenheit (°F) or Celsius (°C). One of the best features of the TP-20 is the pre-programmed USDA meat temperature recommendations so you can easily set your target temperatures for beef, chicken, pork, fish, poultry, ground beef, etc.
The thermometer allows you to set target temperatures for each probe, and the alarm will sound and the display will illuminate once it has reached the target temperature. The alarm is easily silenced by pushing the main button on the remote receiver.
Duel-Probes
The two probes are 4-inches in length, are 4mm thick, and have a 40-inch heat-proof cable. Some meat thermometers on the market have much longer cables, but 40-inches is sufficient. ThermoPro provide two grill clips which allow you to connect the probe to the grill grate of your cooker so you can measure the ambient temperature of the cook chamber. There is a one-year warranty on the probes, and ThermoPro will replace them if they fail in the first year.
ThermoPro make quality thermometers, and the probes are highly accurate when compared to other thermometers on the market. If a thermometer is inaccurate, then what’s the point?
The TP-20 is Simple to Use
The best thing about the TP-20 is its simplicity. It may not have all the features of some newer, high-tech thermometers, but it is the easiest thermometer to use. Not everyone enjoys spending hours reading manuals or watching YouTube videos to figure out how something works. The TP-20 is ready to use out of the box and is easy to understand. Other thermometers can cause a lot of frustration because of the multiple modes and programming, but the TP-20 keeps it simple.
How Much Does the TP-20 Cost?
One of the best things about the ThermoPro TP-20 is the price. You could easily spend hundreds of dollars on a meat thermometer, but the TP-20 has always been affordable in the $50 range. If you’re new to meat smoking, then fifty bucks is about all you want to spend. You can always upgrade to fancy Wi-Fi thermometer later. Check the latest price on Amazon.
Why You Need A Good Thermometer: The Importance of Accurate Temperature Readings
If you’re interested in low-and-slow cooking, then a good meat thermometer will be one of your most important purchases and take all the guesswork out of cooking meat. One of the biggest mistakes people make when starting out is constantly opening the lid of your smoker/cooker. Opening the lid causes the temperatures to fluctuate and can potentially ruin your meat. A wireless thermometer will allow you to monitor the internal meat temperature and the cooker without having to open the lid and peek at the meat.
Don’t Trust In-Built Thermometers: The Advantages of a Standalone Thermometer Like the TP-20
Most smokers and cookers will have a built-in thermometer on the lid, and these factory thermometers are notoriously inaccurate. Some better quality grills may have a good thermometer, but in most cases, it’s best to use your own.
If you’re serious about low-and-slow cooking, you need to know exactly what’s going on inside your meat and in the cooking chamber rather than put your trust in a factory thermometer. Also, a wireless thermometer allows you to carry a receiver so you can monitor your meat and smoker/grill while you are doing other things around the house.
ThermoPro TP08S Digital Wireless Meat Thermometer
ThermoPro also sells the TP08S, an older version of the TP-20. There isn’t much difference between the two thermometers accept for price and some minor features. The most significant difference is the TP08s doesn’t have the pre-programmed USDA recommended doneness temperatures. The presets is one of the best features of the TP20. Compare the specs and check the latest price of the TP08S on Amazon here.
In Summary
- The ThermoPro TP-20 is a two-probe remote thermometer with a timer function
- Communication between the remote and base units is done via RF signals using a proprietary protocol, not Bluetooth or Wi-Fi
- Both units are clad in a rubberized covering to protect against damage from drops
- The temperature display on the sender unit toggles between probe 1 and probe 2, displaying the temperatures in either ºF or ºC, and there is no backlight feature on the transmitter
- The receiver displays both temperatures simultaneously, in either Fahrenheit or Celsius and user can select alarm temperatures for each probe using either the USDA recommendations or a setting of your choice.
- Probes are identical, so either can be used to measure food or cooker temps and cable length is 40″ (1m)
- There is a grill grate clip to facilitate mounting a probe to measure the cooker status.
- When an alarm threshold is reached, the backlight illuminates, the display temp flashes, and a beeper goes off
- There is an up/down timer that runs simultaneously with the temperature alarms
- Manufacturer does not specify the range between the units, and will shut off after 30 minutes without a signal from the transmitter after sounding an alarm
- Probes that fail within the warranty period, one year, will be replaced free of charge
- User manual is reasonably complete and clearly written
- This unit has a basic feature set, adequate build for home use and acceptable accuracy and overall at a fair price.
- Dual-probe thermometers are extremely important for smoking meat because they allow for monitoring the temperature of two different meats at the same time.
- The ThermoPro TP-19 is an instant-read thermometer that gives you a quick and accurate temperature reading in just 2-3 seconds.
- The TP-20 and the TP-19 complement each other nicely and provide a comprehensive solution for smoking meats and low and slow cooking.
For more information on thermometers, check out some of my guides.
The Best Thermometers for Smoking Meat
The Best Wi-Fi Meat Thermometers
The Beginner’s Guide to Meat Thermometers
The Best Meat Thermometers Under $50
