They look similar. They’re pretty much the same price. The MEATER is the original. And, the MeatStick promises new improvements.
But, how do these 100% wireless meat thermometers really perform?
Are they accurate? How easy are their apps to use?
We answer these questions plus more in our comparison of the MEATER Plus vs MeatStick X to help you decide which one’s right for you.
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Table of Contents
Summary of Our Take On the MEATER Plus vs MeatStick X
Being the original, the MEATER Plus has been around for long enough that the company has had time to iron out any of the most common issues.
As a result, the app is so easy to use, there’s no connectivity issues and the meat thermometer, as a whole, is very accurate and a great addition to any kitchen or barbecue setup.
Basically, it works great and there’s no major faults we’ve found.
Read our full review of the MEATER Plus.
What the MeatStick have done with their competitive X model is taken the MEATER concept and added to it by boosting it’s signal range and maximum amibent temperature so that it can be used for sous-vide and deep-frying too.
But unfortunately, the MeatStick X (in our tests), just isn’t that accurate.
It reads about 10°F over the actual internal meat temperture which means you’re pulling out underdone meat unless you know what works for you and shoot for a slightly higher target.
If you value accuracy above all else, just buy the MEATER, even if you go for the Block for the unlimited range the WiFi gives you.
But, if you’re okay with knowing that it’s a little inaccurate, the MeatStick X is still a useful tool that gives you the added versatility and longer Bluetooth range. The app’s also been designed to work across the range so you can use the MeatStick Mini and WiFi Bridge altogether too.
Read our full review of the MeatStick X.
About the MEATER Plus
The MEATER Plus was the first completely wireless meat thermometer on the market.
Using Bluetooth, it connects to your smartphone to give you a constant reading of not just the internal temperature of your meat but the ambient temperature of your barbecue as well (there’s a second probe on the ceramic tip of the stick too)
Watch your cook progress, get notified when the ambient temperature drops and you need more fuel. Then, just leave it until the alarm goes off to tell you your meat is cooked to perfection.
There’s no guess-work. It automatically saves your past cook history so you don’t need to write down what you did so you remember for next time.
A quality meat thermometer is an essential any time you’re smoking. And, with no wires to try to feed through ports and remember which one’s which, it really doesn’t get any easier than the MEATER.
What’s the difference between the different products in the MEATER range?
- Original MEATER – Limited range
- MEATER Plus – 165 ft range – you’ll need at least this if you’re smoking with the lid closed
- MEATER Block – Has WiFi connection for unlimited range with internet access
About the MeatStick X
The MeatStick X was the next runner-up to the truly wireless meat thermometer market.
Offering a number of improvements over the MEATER like an increased range, higher temperature tolerance, and, the ability to use it for sous-vide and deep-frying too, it’s quickly become a popular alternative.
So, what’s in the MeatStick range?
- MeatStick Mini – Limited range
- MeatStick X – Longer range of 265 ft that you will need for smoking with the lid shut
- MeatStick WiFi Bridge Set – Unlimited range via WiFi connection
A Quick Comparison of the MEATER Plus vs MeatStick X
 |  |
165 ft range | 260 ft range |
212°F max. internal meat temp | 212°F max. internal meat temp |
527°F max. ambient temp | 572°F max. ambient temp |
Dishwasher safe | Dishwasher safe |
Connects with up to 4 probes | Connects with up to 8 probes |
Suitable for grilling, baking, smoking | Suitable for grilling, baking, smoking, sous-vide, deep-frying |
24 hr + wireless battery life | 24 hr + wireless battery life |
Charges from 1 x AAA battery | Charges from 2 x AA batteries |
An In-Depth Look at the MEATER Plus vs MeatStick X
Accuracy
We’re going to open this MEATER vs MeatStick comparison with the all important, when you’re talking meat thermometers, accuracy.
In our trials of both the MEATER Plus and the MeatStick X, we tested both probes against thermometers we know to be accurate, and then put these two up against each other.
For the internal temperature, the MEATER Plus consistently measured within a few degrees fahrenheit of our control. And, the MeatStick X sat anywhere between 10-20 degrees out from the actual temperature.
That’s quite a significant difference.
And, when we followed what the MeatStick X says alone, we were pulling undercooked brisket out each and every time.
We didn’t have that same problem using the MEATER Plus.
Now, if you’re a stickler for accuracy (and there ain’t nothing wrong with that!), the MEATER Plus will give you a reliable reading in all sorts of applications.
But, if you’re leaning towards the MeatStick X because it’s a bit more versatile and has a longer range, all’s not lost.
Buy it, test yours out. And, if you find the brisket’s not done when the stick reads 203°F, simply adjust your thinking and cook it longer.
In our experience, it’s at least consistent with the temperature readings running under. So, it can still be a useful piece of kit as long as you use that knowledge and adjust your process.
Signal Range
After accuracy, the next most important thing about choosing a wireless meat thermometer is signal range.
The cheapest options, the MeatStick Mini and MEATER Original have a very limited range. Like, you’ll struggle to get a signal through your closed smoker setup so, unfortunately, the base models aren’t any good for smoking.
The MEATER Plus and MeatStick X have Bluetooth extenders built into the charging dock.
Simply place the dock next to your smoker and you’ll have a pretty decent range. There’s even a magnet on the back of both of the docsks so you can simply stick it to your ‘cue. Just make sure it’s not too hot.
Then, the MEATER Plus will give you 165 ft range and the MeatStick X an impressive 260 ft.
Keep in mind that both of these ranges are technical maximums in an outdoor setting. So, if you’re going through lots of walls, especially with thicker cladding like brick or concrete, that range will drop.
We haven’t had any problems with the range dropping out with either the Plus or the X.
If the range of the MEATER Plus or MeatStick X still isn’t going to work with your setup, there’s the WiFi options as well.
With MEATER, you’re looking at the MEATER Block.
You can still use the standard 165 ft Bluetooth range. Or, connect it up to your WiFi through the charging dock for unlimited distance as long as you’ve got an internet connection.
The MEATER Block is more expensive than the Plus. But, you get either 2 or 4 probes with it as well so it’s pretty good value.
We will give you the heads up that the Block isn’t compatible with the Original or Plus probes. So, you’ve really got to get it right first time with MEATER. Upgrading means a whole new system.
But, if you do go with the MEATER Plus and want a longer range down the track, you can still use it with WiFi. You’ll just need a second mobile device that acts as a booster. So, leave your partners phone at home, hook up both devices and you’ll be able to monitor your cook while you’re out.
It’s called MEATER Link. Here’s a guide on how to set it up.
The WiFi option with the MeatStick is the WiFi Bridge Set.
It works the same way that the MEATER does. And, you get 2 probes instead of one. So, it’s good value for money as well.
If you’ve already bought a MeatStick X and want the WiFi connectivity, you can get the WiFi Bridge separately through the MeatStick’s website. You don’t get the extra probe so the value’s not quite there. But, the connectivity with their other products is appreciated.
Apps and Ease of Use
Both the MEATER and MeatStick have good apps as far as ease of use is concerned.
They connect well (just remember to connect the MeatStick X before you take the probe out!), are fairly intuitive to use, and, have a whole lot of help at your fingertips if you’re a newbie.
But, I’d definitely say that the MEATER app is overall, better than the MeatStick.
My one main issue with the MeatStick is that you have to turn location settings on in IOS. Not ‘allow while you’re using the app’. But, ‘always’ and ‘precise: on’.
So, for someone like me who never has location on, you’ve got to go into the settings, change things, then launch the app and, turn it off once you’ve finished again. It chews through the battery and I’m not even sure why it needs your exact location. The MeatStick say it’s a requirement from Apple HQ to get the Bluetooth to work. But, the MEATER do it without requiring this?!?
Anyway, aside from the location settings, the rest of the MeatStick app is fairly good to use.
The functionality of both apps are very similar.
You’re able to see your current internal and ambient temperatures. See a graph of your progress, set up recommended and custom cooks based on you meat type, set alerts, see an estimated remaining time, and, view a full history of your cooks.
One thing extra I like about the MEATER app is that you can set notes.
I like to put in what time I wrapped and unwrapped as well as anything else notable about the cook.
Temperature Range
The maximum internal temperature both the MEATER Plus and MeatStick X measure is the same at 212°F.
But, the MeatStick X can handle a slightly higher ambient temperature of 572°F vs 527°F.
It’s not much. But, gives you an extra allowance when you’re grilling. It also helps in adding to the versatility of the MeatStick which we’ll go into next.
What Can You Use the MEATER Plus and MeatStick X For?
Both the MEATER Plus and MeatStick X are suitable for grilling and smoking.
You can use them in any type of barbecue including a pellet smoker, offset smoker, gas grill, kettle grill, electric smoker or a kamado. You can use them in your regular home oven. Or, an air-fryer. They’re also absolutely perfect for using on a rotisserie where there’s no way a wired thermomter would work.
But, if you want to deep-fry or cook sous-vide, you’ll have to go the MeatStick X.
The MeatStick’s extra ambient temperature range is hot enough to handle these applications. In fact, it’s the only meat thermometer to date that’s been specifically designed for sous-vide.
Size, Weight and Probe Design
The size and weight of the MEATER Plus and MeatStick X are so similar that it’s really not a major consideration in deciding which one to buy.
The timber charging dock of the MEATER definitely looks great. As does the sleek look of the MeatStick X.
The only notable difference worth mentioning in this area is that the probe of the MeatStick is sharper than that of the MEATER.
Because of this it’s a little easier to insert into the meat. But, in saying that, the MEATER isn’t difficult at all. It’s just something we’ll bring up in case it factors into your purchasing decision.
Charging
Any time your meat thermometer isn’t being used, you’ll keep it in it’s dock which charges it as well.
The MEATER runs off a single AAA battery while the MeatStick has 2 x AA batteries.
Both docks give the probe about 24 hours of run-time.
We initially thought we’d have to replace the battery in the dock a lot. But, with very regular use over more than 6 months now, we haven’t had to replace the battery in either dock even once.
The charging dock/storage case is a great design feature and works efficiently as well.
Cleaning the Probes
One word, dishwasher!!
Both of these probes are dishwasher safe.
Once you’re done, pop them in with your cutlery. You’ll never have to try to clean or struggle with an oily probe wire again.
It couldn’t be easier.
Warranty
Either way you go you’ve got a 1 year warranty.
The MEATER also comes with a 30 day money back guarantee. And, the MeatStick X, a 30 day great steak guarantee.
Price
If you were hoping that the price would help make your decision a little easier, think again.
All of the thermometers in the MEATER and MeatStick range are priced very similarly.
You can check the price of both using the links below (something might be on sale!). Yes, we will earn a small commission if you do make a purchase through one of our links.
Should I Buy the MEATER Plus or MeatStick X?
Yes, we have a favorite (the MEATER Plus). But, if you’re okay with the fact that the MeatStick X isn’t the most accurate meat thermometer on the block, they’re both SUCH a useful tools when you’re grilling, baking or smoking.
We like the MEATER Plus because:
- It’s really accurate;
- Got a long enough range for our barbecue setup; and,
- The app is so easy to use (and, let’s you leave notes on your cook)
Read our full review of the MEATER Plus.
But, the MeatStick X has the added benefits of:
- Being able to use it for sous-vide and deep-frying;
- Having a longer range if you need it; and
- It’s modular design means you can add-on the WiFi Bridge or MeatStick Mini if you get them at a later date
Just keep in mind that you might have to adjust your target internal temperature if yours is reading a little under as well.
Read our full review of the MeatStick X.
FAQs About the MEATER vs MeatStick
Which is Better the MeatStick or the MEATER?
After having used and tested both the MEATER and the MeatStick, we have to say we like the MEATER better.
The MeatStick promise a lot. And, they do offer some good solutions to some of the issues people might have with the MEATER. The MeatStick X works for sous-vide and deep-frying, it has a slightly longer signal range, and, you can link up individual probes if you buy more later.
But, we feel that the MEATER has mastered the basics better.
The MEATER Plus is a lot more accurate and we find the app is much easier to use. So, with a signal and temperature range that’s enough for what we need (grilling and smoking pretty much anything), we choose improved accuracy and it being easier to use rather than the extra features.
Can You Use the MEATER Plus For Sous-Vide?
Unfortunately the MEATER range, including the MEATER Plus is not designed for sous-vide.
If you want a completely wireless smart thermometer that can handle being submerged in boiling water, the MeatStick X is currently the go-to option. It’s waterproof probes can handle heat up to 572°F making it safe for deep-frying and sous-vide.
Are MEATER Plus Probes Connectable?
You can connect up to 4 MEATER Plus probes to one smartphone through the app.
If you want to use more than this, you’ll need to use MEATER link where you can connect 4 additional probes taking your total to 8.
Up to 8 of the MeatStick X probes can connect to a single app without having to change from the basic setup.
Is the MEATER App or the MeatStick App Easier to Use?
Both the MEATER and the MeatStick have pretty good apps.
If I’d have to choose one that’s easier to use, I’d go with the MEATER because I find it a bit more intuitive. Also, you have to remember to connect the MeatStick X BEFORE you take the probe out. Sounds simple but I always forget, put the probe in a slab or raw meat and then have to take it out and wash it before I can put it back in the dock and start up the system.
My other issue with the MeatStick (which hopefully they do address) is that you have to turn location settings on in IOS. And, not just ‘allow while you’re using the app’, it’s on on.
I never use location settings so it takes a while to turn everything on in the settings and off again once your finished. Not to mention the higher battery use and potential privacy issues if you’re worried about that.
There’s no issues with location settings in the MEATER app.
Are the MEATER Plus and MeatStick X both dishwasher safe?
Yes! With no wires and the dishwasher safe tick of approval on both the MEATER Plus and the MeatStick X, it’s never been easier to wash your meat probes.
Do the MeatStick X and the MEATER Plus Have the Same Maximum Temperatures?
Yes and no. The MEATER and MeatStick X have different maximum ambient temperature tolerances.
The MEATER can handle up to 527°F of heat inside your barbecue while the MeatStick X safely works at up to 572°F.
Both wireless thermometers max out at 212°F for your internal meat temperature.
But, the higher ambient temperature allowance of the MeatStick X gives it a bit of an edge if you’re using it while grilling.
Jared Brown, an avid lover of all things meat has a fearless enthusiasm for experimenting with anything that's grilling, smoking or outdoor cooking. With a wealth of experience across a range different barbecue types, Jared's got a real knack for helping others make a decision they're happy with, ensuring they find the perfect fit regardless of conventional notions of the 'right' choice. This unique approach has made Jared a trusted guide in the world of barbecue.
