While I don't have any other device or thermometer to compare this infrared thermometer based on the areas I wanted to measure, I'd say it does Seems pretty accurate, at least when it comes to reading hot and cold surfaces. The thermometer uses a 9 volt battery (included) and is fairly easy to use. Simply press the trigger to count and release to hold. read. There are other buttons to change the maximum and minimum temperatures from Celsius to Fahrenheit, among other things. Overall I am satisfied with the performance of this infrared temperature reader.