The 10 best thermometers to buy in the UK
When it comes to the health of a loved one, you don’t want to take any risks, which is why it’s worth buying the best thermometer possible for anyone with a fever. A good thermometer offers accurate readings, allowing you to know the extent of a running temperature and whether you need to act.
However, with so many products to choose from, it’s not always easy to find a quality thermometer for reading you or a loved one’s temperature. Check the buying guide below for how to choose the best thermometer.
What are thermometers?
A medical thermometer is used to measure a person’s body temperature. The best thermometers are now made digitally, with mercury thermometers no longer being used due the inherent risks of accidental mercury poisoning.
The tip of a thermometer is inserted into the tongue, armpit, or the rectum to get an accurate reading of a body’s running temperature.
Why should you buy a good thermometer?
Anyone with a running temperature for more than a few days may have some medical issues, so it’s always worth owning a thermometer to determine the extent of a fever and how bad it is. Not all thermometers offer accurate readings however, so it’s important to buy the best thermometer to ensure you have correct information regarding the health of a loved one.
How to choose the right thermometer in 2024?
Choosing the right thermometer depends on quite a few things, from who it’s being used on to the features it provides. Here are some things to consider that will help you choose the right thermometer:
- Response Time: The quicker you get a result from a thermometer the better, as it’s often difficult to get a child to sit still for long when trying to read their temperature. The best thermometers offer a response time of around 10 seconders or lower.
- Testing Method: The tip of a thermometer is traditionally inserted under the tongue or ear, although most modern digital thermometers are inserted into the latter. There are other testing methods however, including under the armpit, in the rectum, and even non-contact thermometers (usually held close to the forehead). Be sure to buy a thermometer that is age-appropriate. For instance, children aged three and under should be tested via the rectum for an accurate reading, while children above three should be fine with an ear thermometer. Adults may use any method they prefer.
- Features: While the most important thing about a thermometer is getting an accurate temperature reading, it may also help to have a few extras thrown in too. For example, a curved tip may offer comfortable insertion (ideal for kids that struggle to have it inserted in their ear), while a beeper can alert you to high fevers.
What is the best kind of thermometer in the UK?
There are a few types of thermometer to choose from, any of which may be preferable for you or your children.
- Digital Stick Thermometers: The best all-round thermometer and one of the cheapest available, digital stick thermometers are a great choice for most people. Try to go for a model that offers an LCD display for easier readings, while features such as audio beeps are helpful for determining the right position of the thermometer or whether there is a high fever reading. Various tips are available too, including flexible and rigid.
- Infrared Thermometers: Infrared thermometers are better for getting quick readings, which may be useful for parents that struggle to get their kids to sit still. It works by using infrared to measure heat emitted from the body and is typically used in the ear or on the forehead, making them more comfortable to use in most instances. However, infrared thermometers are more expensive than digital sticks.
Top 10 list of thermometers in the UK (2024)
The bestseller list compares brands and their thermometers. Which thermometer is the best?
- WHY AN EAR THERMOMETER? The ear is in fact, a more accurate site to measure temperature…
- EASY TO USE: Compact design and a one button operation ensures Braun ThermoScan 3…
- FEVER ALARM: Number of beeps indicates normal (1 beep), elevated (2 beeps) and high…
- Order Today - and you’re protected by a 100 day, no-questions-asked money back…
- Clear Fever Indication - The digital display gives a clear fever indication in smileys.…
- Always Squeeky Clean and Hygienic - The ProFlex Temp DTR-1221R is waterproof for…
- MULTI-SITE USAGE CHOICE: This digital thermometer is suitable for either oral, rectal,…
- GENTLE FLEXIBLE TIP: Extra comfortable usage for the entire family, from adults to…
- QUICK READINGS: Get fast and precise age-based results in as little as 8 seconds…
- What's Included: 1 Touchless Infrared Thermometer, 1 User Manual, 2 LR03 Batteries.…
- Fever Alert with Backlight: Featuring a large LCD screen with 3 backlight indicators…
- 3-in-1 Infrared Thermometer: Utilizing infrared technology, it measures forehead…
- Complete Package with Warranty and Support: Your purchase includes the Anmeate thermometer,…
- Suitable for All Ages with User-Friendly Design: Crafted to be gentle and ergonomic,…
- 3 Backlight Indicators: (Green, Yellow, Red) for different temperature levels, turns…
- QUICK AND EASY READINGS: Get fast and accurate age-based results in seconds. Gentle…
- WHY AN EAR THERMOMETER? The ear is in fact, a more accurate site to measure temperature…
- QUALITY YOU CAN TRUST: Clinically proven to be as accurate as rectal measurements…
- Safe and Hygienic: The non-contact infrared thermometer avoids contact with the body…
- FeaturesWith one of our non-contact thermometers, you can easily measure the body…
- MOST RECEIVINGThe last recorded temperature does not need to be recorded during…
- [What You'll Get]: 1 digital thermometer, 1 user manual, 1 protective case,…
- [Multiple Use Thermometer]: Suitable for armpit, oral, and rectal use. Made of high-quality…
- [Lightweight and Easy to Use]: Our thermometers are user-friendly, mercury-free,…
- What’s In The BoxAILE Digital ThermometerGun, written manual (in English),…
- High temperature/ fever warningsIf the thermometer gun registers a temperature reading…
- Clear 1.45”Screen DisplayAILE infrared thermometers incorporate a 1.45 inch…
- Practical storage caseThe CTA303 comes equipped with its own protective case; designed…
- Fast and accurate readings with memory callThe CTA303 is fast, gentle, and easy to…
- High temperature alert with beeping notificationThe CTA303 offers one-button operation,…
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