These are the best-infrared thermometers on the market in 2023.Based on precision, ease of use, technological advancement, versatility, and affordability.
Gozney Infrared Thermometer
Ooni Infrared Thermometer
luke 62 Max Industrial
Have you ever experienced this? You make the perfect, EXTRA crispy pizza most times when it’s just for you and probably your partner. But when you are hosting a pizza party, it’s either burnt or soggy. Ultimately, it’s never edible or palatable enough to keep the party going.
That’s because you are baking your pizzas at the wrong temperature.
Luckily, thermometers are designed to allow you to monitor your cooking process for perfect golden-brown results. However, the best of them are the Infrared models.
They are super accurate and allow you to read the temperature from a safe distance. Besides, you want to avoid contaminating your food.
So, if that sounds like what you are looking for, here is the best-infrared thermometer for Pizza Oven for baking the crispiest and crunchiest pizza ever!
🥇Best Infrared Thermometer for Cooking
| Model | Best for | IP Rating | Review | My rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Gozney Infrared Thermometer | Pizza ovens, cooking | ✓ | Read the review | 5/5 |
| 2. Ooni Infrared Thermometer | Pizza ovens, cooking | ✓ | Read the review | 5/5 |
| 3. Luke 62 Max Industrial | Industrial settings, cooking | ✓ | Read the review | 4.8/5 |
| 4. Etekcity 1022D Thermometer | Grilling, cooking | ✓ | Read the review | 4.6/5 |
| 5. Cuisinart CSG-625 Infrared Thermometer | Grilling, cooking | ✓ | Read the review | 5/5 |
| 6. Klein Tools IR5 Infrared Thermometer | cooking, Electrical work, HVAC | ✓ | Read the review | 4.7/5 |
🤔Why Buy An Infrared Thermometer for Pizza Oven?
There are tons of reasons why every home needs an infrared thermometer. Its application is not limited to baking sumptuous pizzas alone.
- An infrared thermometer is handy for measuring cooking temperature for the best results. While any thermometer can do this, an IR thermometer lets you track the entire process away from the extreme oven or grill’s heat. Safety is important!
- This equipment can help pinpoint where your electrical wiring is faulty. This helps save time.
- An infrared thermometer can easily determine all the hot spot areas in your home. Hence, keeping your furry friends and kids away.
- Its application extends to commercial settings as well. Infrared thermometers help identify potential problems with machinery. Thus, you can avoid costly damage.
There’s more you can do with this versatile equipment. But for baking pizzeria-grade pizzas, an IR thermometer is essential. Remember, the cooking result depends on your precision.
👩💼How Does An Infrared Thermometer Gun Work For Cooking?
The working principle of the IR thermometer relies on detecting emitted infrared radiation. Your naked eye cannot see this electromagnetic radiation. So, it requires a unique sensor to detect invisible EM radiation.
After detection, the IR thermometer converts it into an electrical signal using Visible Light Technology. This tool has a small computer to do the tedious math and display a temperature value.
In addition to that;
There are two types of infrared thermometers depending on the mode of measurement. Some models require direct contact with the hot object surface, while others don’t. The latter offers remote sensing to keep you safe from the sweltering heat.
🧪How Accurate Is An Infrared Thermometer Gun?
Regardless of the occasion, pizzas can be the main dish. The increasing demand explains why most pizzaiolos are using this no-contact thermometer. These devices are accurate, safe, and efficient for tracking your cooking process.
When used correctly, infrared thermometers are just as accurate as their probe counterparts. The formal is now the gold standard in the pizza world. Why? Utmost convenience, versatility, and precise measurement.
But to unlock top-class culinary skills, the probe thermometer might be worth considering.
📰The Criteria: What to Look for In The Best Infrared Thermometer for Cooking?
Distance-to-spot ratio
The distance-to-spot ratio is an essential factor when choosing the right temperature gun. You need to determine the least distance the device requires for accurate measurement.
Some products require you to go very close to the hot object’s surface. This can be a problem if you are baking with a wood-fired pizza oven. The stainless steel exterior casing is known to be notoriously hot. So, it’s wise to consider a device offering a safe distance-to-spot ratio without compromising accuracy.
Temperature Range
Cooking at the right temperature is paramount to making “consistent” palatable pizzas. So, it’s a no-brainer that you need to weigh the temperature range of the device.
Pizza ovens bake at high temperatures to knock out super crunchy crust in no time. Therefore, the best pizza oven thermometer should have a wide temperature range.
Portable pizza ovens, especially indoor models, have a temperature range between 400 – 500 degrees F. For outdoors or commercial counterparts, you need a temperature gun that measures as high as 1000 degrees F.
Else, you might be over or undercooked your pizza. No one wants to eat a soggy or burnt pizza if it’s still a pizza at all.
Accuracy & Emissivity
A thermometer is useless if its readings are inaccurate. A thermometer must be precise and accurate. The slightest error can be the difference between a smokey burnt cheese and melted cheese.
Luckily, the latest temperature guns are accurate. Also, they integrated with emissivity calibration for better accuracy. The emissivity is a rating between 0 to 1. Some models support adjusting the device’s emissivity. It’s a good thing. You can easily minimize the influence of reflective surfaces on your actual reading.
But as a general rule of thumb, the right device should have an emissivity close to 1. The accuracy of the thermometer depends on its emissivity calibration.
Optics
Infrared thermometers can be grouped into three main classes based on optics:
- Lensless
- Fresnel lenses
- Mica lens
Each type offers unique advantages over the others. So, consider that and their downside before making a choice.
No lens
This type of temperature gun does not come with a lens. So, they are the most affordable and robust option. Without a lens, measurement requires direct contact with the object’s surface. The temperature readings are correct, but the distance-to-spot ratio can be concerning.
Fresnel lenses
The Fresnel lenses are relatively new compared to others. They take accurate temperature readings. The most impressive feature is its wide temperature range.
Thus, most pit masters preferred them for grilling most high-temperature foods, from chicken breast to These newly improved lenses won’t break, even when dropped from startling heights. They are more versatile than no-lens models.
Mica lens
When it comes to accuracy, mica lenses are the clear winner. These lenses are capable of measuring very high temperatures at close range. Thus, they are an excellent choice for food inspection for a contactless process.
Sadly, they are costly. And unlike the fresnel lenses and lensless models, this product is challenging to repair. So, you want to handle it with extreme caution.
Primary purpose
Thermometers are all different. Meaning there isn’t a one-size-fits-all device. So, it’s imperative to determine your needs before purchasing one.
Some models require contact with the object’s surface for accurate temperature readings.
Other models are best suited for monitoring food for a distance to avoid contamination. These models are suitable for tracking your cooking progress on the grill or pizza oven.
Besides, there are medical-grade thermometers perfect for measuring body temperature. They feature cutting-edge infrared technology for EXTRA safety.
⭐Best Infrared Thermometer For Pizza Oven
1. Ooni Infrared Thermometer
Taking the top spot is the Ooni Infrared Thermometer. And this decision has nothing to do with the fact that it’s from a world-class brand. It has a large display screen, wide temperature range, sturdy plastic construction with cutting-edge ergonomic design, and Advanced Laser Guide Technology, earning it the top place.
Ooni Infrared Thermometer Highlights
- ACCURATE: Know exactly when your pizza stone is ready to cook the perfect base with the Ooni Infrared Thermometer.
- FAST: The Ooni infrared thermometer gun with a laser pointer will allow you to measure the surface temperature of your Ooni within seconds.
- EASY TO USE: For the most accurate reading, simply aim the laser of the ooni thermometer to the middle of your pizza stone, and the reading will appear on the display screen.
If the best-infrared thermometer for a pizza oven has to be convenient, accurate, and withstand being mistakenly dropped, then this product is a clear winner.
What’s more?
Ooni designed this temperature gun to be a one-time purchase for you. It is suitable for you, either a stay-at-home cook, enthused pizza maker, or a professional baker. You can use it on any cooking appliance: smoker, grill, or pizza oven. So, there’s no point in buying more thermometer guns when this one works best in many conditions.
This device remains one of the best-selling temperature guns. And the reasons are not far-fetched.
The crystal-clear backlit screen is a wonderful feature; the Ooni flaunts it with pride. It’s not just about offering an easy view of the temperature readings. It comes in handy when you are still cooking late in the day. And the best part of the display is it offers the temps in both degrees F and C. No more time-wasting conversions!
Here’s another exciting thing;
This tool has a wide temperature range, from -32°C / -25.6°F to 600°C / 1112°F. This gun might be the missing piece to consistently knocking out crispy, even golden-brown pizzas. Before launching the dough, use this thermometer to measure the oven base’s temp for precise cooking. You no longer have to eyeball the oven’s temperature and take a bet with your pizza dough. Finally, start baking the EXTRA crispy crust with utmost confidence.
That’s not all;
This nifty device is super light, which makes it the perfect choice for an on-the-go cooking experience. Easy to hold and takes almost no space.
The manufacturer comes with 2AAA batteries to start using this awesome temp gun at once. According to thousands of customers, the ultra-modern laser guide is super helpful. It helps pinpoint the area measured for ZERO mistakes.
The only downside is its relatively expensive price point. Why not pay more for a product that offers peace of mind? Be my guest if you want to try your luck with those cheap guns and their inconsistencies.
2. Gozney Infrared Thermometer
The Gozney Infrared Thermometer is the most aesthetically-appealing option on this list. It’s hard to dismiss its beautiful dark green and black color combination. This attractive product features the finest soft-touch material for very comfortable handling.
It’s not just about its awesome eye-catching design. This unit is user-friendly, precise, and efficient for everyone – whether you are a home chef or pitmaster.
Gozney Infrared Thermometer Highlights
- Built-in laser for exact measurement
- -58°F to 1022°F
- LED backlit screen
- Automatic power shut-off after 15 seconds
- Switch between both Celsius and Fahrenheit measurements
- Single-read or continuous temperature read options
- Soft touch material
- Power: 9v Battery (supplied)
This leading manufacturer, Gozney, integrated this temp gun with groundbreaking Laser technology for precise cooking. Also, it was one of the most straightforward thermometers I’ve ever used. It took an instant, the accurate temperature reading of my cast iron pan, ensuring it was hot enough to sear a steak for a tender, juicy result.
Not only that;
Its broad temp range from -58°F to 1022°F allows you to read from any object or surface. This is precisely what I look for in a thermometer to help bake wood-flavored, crispy thin-crust pizza that requires heating up to 1000°F.
Like other high-end models, this dazzling device has a dedicated oC/off button to switch between Fahrenheit and Celsius. So, it takes out tedious math conversion and lets you focus on following the recipe to the letter.
Also, I love its LED screen. While it’s not bigger than others on this list, it has a blue backlight. It is more gentle on your eyes than the bright white light for a super easy reading experience.
If you’ve to take several temperature measurements during a cooking session, the Gozney Infrared Thermometer is perfect. It supports taking continuous temperature readings to avoid wasting your time. Also, you can hold the temp reading, so you don’t have to memorize or second-guess your readings.
A 9V battery powers this sturdy temp gun. However, the manufacturer did not include how to install the battery, which some customers complained was tricky. Luckily, you can follow any of the guides online.
Talking of batteries;
This beauteous laser thermometer sports an automatic 15-second shutoff feature to extend the battery’s life. The best bit? There’s no power ON/OFF button for the most incredible one-hand temperature measurement experience.
So, if you hate those familiar yellow or dull blue laser thermometers, this product looks drop-dead gorgeous! Well, you can choose to have a device like everyone or stand out with the premium Gozney Infrared Thermometer.
3. Fluke 62 Max Industrial Infrared Thermometer
The Fluke 62 Max is the best heavy-duty thermometer for cooking enthusiasts and DIYers. It checks nearly all boxes: excellent temp range, fastest response time, adjustable emissivity, and ideal 10:1 distance-to-spot ratio. And, of course, it doesn’t come cheap like the Ooni model. Yet, it still punches beyond its weight, thanks to its many unrivaled features.
Technical Specification of Fluke 62
This product has the widest application on this list. It is suitable for measuring temperature in hard-to-reach areas, electrical wiring, HVAC system, and sweltering-hot pizza ovens. The Fluke 62 Max will surprise you, whether for industrial use or baking purposes. Remember, it’s NOT a medical thermometer.
Temperature-wise
This product has a broad temperature range of -22 to 932 degrees F. It’s a bit shorter than the Ooni model. However, it’s more than enough to support its multipurpose functionality. Also, its systems offer almost INSTANT temperature reading with a fast response time of less than 500ms. Take your pizza oven’s temperature and start baking crispy crust immediately – ZERO time wasted!
Fast, okay; accuracy?
The Fluke 62 Max boasts unparalleled accuracy of ± 1.5%. This tool perfectly measures your pizza and the oven’s temp. Remember, the hush-hush tip for making great pizza is baking at the “right” temperature. This is the device to take your pizza-baking game to the NEXT level; if that’s what you are looking for.
Plus, this temperature gun features an adjustable emissivity between 0.1 – 1. Now, you have a tool that works outside the kitchen. You can easily take temp readings of any surface.
Need to know where the heat from your car is coming from? Take out the Fluke 62 Max!
Here’s the best part;
It has a distance-to-spot ratio of a whooping 10:1. At last, a measuring tool that always lets you stay at a SAFE distance and take “accurate” temp readings. You no longer have to risk scalding your skin for temperature measurement ever again!
Any PREMIUM features?
This best IR thermometer for pizza ovens comes with a superior IP54 rating. This means it’s highly resistant to water splash and dust. Thus, guaranteeing that this device survives in almost any environment. Besides, it’s indestructible up to a scary 3-meter height—one less tool to worry about.
Well, you don’t have to take my word for it. There are thousands of pleased customers with happy reviews, including me. If that’s not enough, then there’s a generous warranty. The manufacturer promises to be responsible if ANYTHING goes wrong in the first THREE years.
4. Etekcity Infrared Thermometer 1022D
The Etekcity 1022D is from one of the best brands in this space. But does it live up to hype and reputation? If fast response time, high accuracy temp readings, and advanced Dual Laser Targeting technology counts, then YES.
This product is a close rival to the heavy-duty Fluke 62 Max without the hefty price tag. This model offers a wide temperature range, from -58 to 1022 degrees F. Its LCD displays the temperature reading in both Celsius and Fahrenheit. So, you don’t have to be a math genius to use this device.
Technical Specification of Etekcity
Equipped with Low Battery Indicator and Auto-Off Function, this product has the longest battery life. My only concern is the LCD; it sometimes fades, especially under bright conditions.
Besides that;
Etekcity 1022D screams top-tier engineering. Its Nex-Gen Dual Laser Target technology helps pinpoint the exact surface being measured. Thus, you get higher precision compared to the single laser models.
Slow thermometers are sometimes the reason your pizza gets burnt. So, purchase the Etekcity 1022D for instant temperature reading.
Another hallmark of this temperature gun is its quick response time of about 500 ms, which means no more slow temperature results or burnt pizza.
Like the Fluke 62 Max, this model has an adjustable emissivity option: 0.1 – 1.0. Hence, making it very easy to read temps of different materials accurately. It can be something other than a pizza thermometer. However, it’s not meant to be used on humans.
Talking of accuracy;
This device is just a little behind. It has an accuracy of ±2 degrees C, a few degrees shy of the Fluke 62 Max. But this model takes the lead when it comes to the distance-to-spot ratio. It allows you to take “safe and accurate” measurements by staying up to 36 cm away from the hot object.
Don’t want to spend hundreds of dollars on a thermometer; then the top-chefs-pick Etekcity 1022D is your best bet.
5. Cuisinart CSG-625 Infrared Surface Thermometer
Do you want a standby outdoor cooking temperature gun? A thermometer that works for anything, from a pellet smoker to a pizza oven? The Cuisinart CSG-625 is second to none, and it’s fast becoming the top choice for every pit master and pizzaiolo.
Technical Specification of Cuisinart CSG-625
Unlike other products with a vast temperature range, the Cuisinart CSG-625 has a maximum temperature of 716 degrees F. However, it’s more than enough to squeeze, point and measure your cooking temperatures. There’s no delay or lag with its response rate. It delivers temp results with lightning speed.
Similarly, this product comes with easily adjustable emissivity in the same range. Thus, allowing you to use a wide range of appliances and materials. This way, you can know if the pizza oven is cold enough to touch or carry.
Accuracy-wise;
This product is not up to par with the Etekcity 1022D, despite being in the same price range. Its temp reading varies by ±4 degrees C/F. This isn’t a terrible deal breaker if you don’t need high precision.
Best of it all:
Its NEW Laser targeting technology is many users’ favorite feature. It makes measuring and monitoring your food a breeze. You don’t have to get too close or bear the heat radiating from the appliance anymore.
6. Klein Tools IR5 Dual Laser 12:1 Infrared Thermometer
For twice the price of the Ooni IR thermometer, snag this professional temperature gun with an auto-scan, Hi/Low alarm and ADVANCED dual-laser targeting technology.
But let’s start with its stunning Optical Resolution of 12:1. This model permits you to stay out of the danger zones while taking measurements. This is one thermometer you can allow your kids to use to join you in the cooking process. And, of course, under your supervision.
Technical Specification of Klein Tools
It’s super easy to use for anyone, thanks to its newly-improved Dual Laser Targeting technology. This device shoots two lasers at different spots on the hot surface and measures the area’s temperature.
That’s NOT the best part;
This product comes with an Auto Hold function. This feature eliminates the need to memorize or second-guess. Also, the LCD has a backlit function like others. It makes it effortless to read during low-light conditions.
However, the manufacturer equips this thermometer with an auto power-off function. So, you won’t be replacing the battery (included) in years to come.
Talking of battery life;
With backlit on, this best-in-class gun lasts up to 10 hours of continuous use. This is one of the longest battery life ever! The only annoying thing is some customers complain about the battery arriving dead. But it’s one 9-volt battery, so you can always purchase a replacement from the nearest store.
Not just that, it’s nearly as durable and rugged as the tough-to-break Ooni IR thermometer. Its robust plastic construction offers superior drop protection to 6.6 feet. You won’t be purchasing a new thermometer if it mistakenly drops. And this happens more often than you think.
What if it falls and breaks? Fret Not! The manufacturer will be responsible for the damage if it happens within the first year of receipt. This is the second-best deal after the Fluke 62 Max.
📊Comparisons of IR Thermometer for Pizza Oven
| Feature | Gozney Infrared Thermometer | Ooni Infrared Thermometer | Luke 62 Max Industrial | Etekcity 1022D Thermometer | Cuisinart CSG-625 Infrared Thermometer | Klein Tools IR5 Infrared Thermometer |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Temperature range | -58 to 752 degrees F | -58 to 752 degrees F | -22 to 932 degrees F | -40 to 752 degrees F | -40 to 752 degrees F | -40 to 752 degrees F |
| Accuracy | +/- 2 degrees F | +/- 2 degrees F | +/- 1 degree F | +/- 2 degrees F | +/- 2 degrees F | +/- 2 degrees F |
| Laser-targeting | 500 milliseconds | 500 milliseconds | < 500 milliseconds | 500 milliseconds | 500 milliseconds | < 500 milliseconds |
| Distance-to-spot ratio | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Distance-to-spot ratio | 12:1 | 12:1 | 10:1 | 12:1 | 12:1 | 12:1 |
| IP rating | IP44 | IP44 | IP54 | IP44 | IP44 | IP44 |
| Warranty | 1 year | 1 year | 3 years | 1 year | 1 year | 1 year |
🤷♀️How To Use An Infrared Thermometer Gun for Pizza Oven?
Infrared thermometer guns are simple to use. It’s more of a point-and-measure operation. Also, they come with a digital display to pop up the resulting temperature. Some models even feature Laser Technology making it super easy to aim and take accurate readings.
When using a temperature gun, you will notice that the oven’s surface temperature is not uniform. This tool helps you identify the hot and cold spots. Thus, you can easily determine where the pizza should go.
However, there are things you should put into consideration when taking temperature readings:
- Distance: as said earlier, there’s a recommended distance between the object and the sensor. If you keep the detector at a distance beyond the ideal ratio, your reading will be off. In short, keep the sensor as close as possible to the distance-to-spot ratio.
- Angle: the right way to measure is by placing the device’s sensor at 90 degrees to the hot surface. Else, the accuracy suffers, and your cooking result might be depressing.
- Reflection: most bakers often ignore this important factor when taking their reading. Some heated surfaces give off infrared radiation, which alters your reading.
So, to solve this, the latest product features a “spot size” setting. This function localized the area being measured. Thus, the device measures only a small portion of the object. The reflected IR radiation will have little to no influence on your reading.
💬Thermometer for Pizza Oven Related FAQ
Are all infrared thermometers the same?
They are not created equal. They share a lot of features, designs, technologies, etc. Notwithstanding, most no-contact temperature guns come with a screen and a sensor to take your reading for a distance.
Some models might require getting the sensor to touch the object to read the temperature. So, there’s no one-size-fits-all infrared thermometer if that’s what you are asking.
What is the difference between infrared and laser?
There are only a handful of genuine laser thermometers. Most products labeled “laser” temperature guns do not use laser technology to measure temperature.
Instead, they use infrared technology to read the temperature and laser to improve your aim. Laser thermometers are more suitable for high-precision jobs like surgery.
Are infrared thermometers safe?
If used correctly, there should be no cause for alarm. IR thermometers should not be pointed at the body and face, especially if it’s not medical-grade ones. Most importantly, avoid looking at the infrared beam directly.
Conclusion
The best IR thermometer to buy hinges on several factors, which I’ve explained in detail in the buying guide section. However, the most important ones include your needs, budget, and essential features.
Choosing the right one should be easy. I’ve revealed the top 5 best-infrared thermometers for pizza ovens. Now, it’s up to you to make an informed decision.
Nonetheless, I’m confident that any of the products will make you happy with extra crispy pizza crusts. They are all convenient, durable, accurate, and take safety seriously.
