At $4-5 this is a very efficient and functional device. This is an "instant reading" because the dial is constantly adjusting for temperature based on the metal in the stem. So if you put it in boiling water, it will take about 10 seconds for the metal in the stick to expand and accurately reflect the ambient temperature. When I received it the sensor was off a few degrees which isn't a big deal because I just put it in the plastic holder it comes in and left it in boiling water until the sensor was stable and set it according to the instructions (which is very simple - just rotate the dial) 212 degrees. Now it works very accurately, you can always check it by putting it in ice water or boiling water. I've only had it for a few days so I'll update if anything happens. I only use it to measure water temperature and it's definitely worth it compared to more expensive thermometers! If you plan to use this to measure meat temperature I would suggest going with a digital readout where the measuring part is only at the tip. There is a notch 2 inches from the tip where the thermometer should be dipped in whatever to give you the correct temperature so you can insert it up the side of a thin piece of meat and it should work properly.
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