10-Seconds on the MEATER Wireless Thermometers
The MEATER Block is our go-to for accurate and easy temperature monitoring every single barbecue and the MEATER Plus is just as good.
- Accurate
- Easy to use
- Great connectivity
- Not ideal for open flame searing
- Wrapping in aluminum foil reduces range
- MEATER Block uses a lot of batteries
There’s a whole heap of ‘wireless’ meat thermometers out there.
But, most wireless meat thermometers are still connected to the base unit by a… da da da da… wire! The wireless part is the receiver.
So, if you don’t want to be messing around feeding things through probe ports or leaking smoke through a lid that’s meant to seal, the MEATER is the original meat thermometer that actually doesn’t have any wires at all!
Simply stick it in your meat, pop the charging block on the outside of your barbecue and you’re good to go.
Using Bluetooth and/or Wi-Fi, truly wireless meat thermometers are just starting to creep into the barbecue industry more and more.
Is there anything else that beats the MEATER? What’s the battery life like? Are there connectivity issues? And, can you justify it’s much higher than a wired meat thermometer’s high price?
In this MEATER review, we dive into how these stand-alone temperature probes work, how accurate they are, and, what the app’s like plus more.
Basically, we share everything you need to know to decide if the MEATER is worth your money or not.
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Table of Contents
The Quick Version of Our MEATER Review
When it comes to wireless smart meat thermometers for smoking, the MEATER Plus or MEATER Block is our go-to every single time.
Yes, they are more expensive than a lot of the alternatives.
But, they’re so simple to use, give accurate readings, and generally doesn’t give us connectivity issues. The app has a huge range of meat setups, useful alerts, gives you easy to see info with full cook graphs, and saves your history.
MEATER really does make the whole smoking process just so easy.
The very limited range on the Original MEATER means that, while it can do grilling with the barbecue lid off, it’s just not suitable for smoking. So, if you’re looking for a meat thermometer that can do it all, you’ll need to pay that little bit extra to get the MEATER Plus model that has 5 times the range, up to 165 feet.
If you’re smoking more than one cut of meat, which most people are, the MEATER Block is the best value option in the range.
Not only does the Block come with 4 probes for less than you’d otherwise pay, it also has WiFi so you can see all your data from anywhere with an internet connection, you don’t need to be within that 165 feet.
The only real downside of that is that the Block does chew up quite a few batteries trying to run it all. But, function-wise it’s great. We really do rely on the MEATER Block for every single smoke.
Across the MEATER range, the actual dual sensored meat probes are the same.
Just be aware that there’s a minimum depth you need to insert the probe into the meat because the internal end can’t handle as high of a heat as the ambient tip. It’s marked on each probe and you’ll need to go sideways on thinner cuts like steak, ribs or salmon.
The maximum ambient temperature of 527°F is also a bit limiting when you’re grilling on an open flame.
Because of this, we do prefer to use an instant read thermometer for open flame grilling. But, we have no problems using the MEATER to grill on a pellet smoker or similar where we’re using indirect heat up to about 550°F anyway.
Another ‘complaint’ worth mentioning is that the foil reduces the range of the meat probe. But, all you need to do is either use butchers paper instead or leave the tip out sticking out if you’re wrapping your meat in aluminum foil.
Overall though, the MEATER range is definitely the top quality meat thermometer out there.
It works flawlessly the majority of the time. With a long battery run-time and efficient charging dock, it’s seriously hassle-free and takes all of the guess-work out of smoking without having wires to mess around with.
It’s 100% our top pick on the wireless meat thermometer market!
Features of the MEATER Original, Plus and Block Meat Thermometers
Construction:
- Stainless steel and ceramic probes
- Dual sensors in each probe measure internal and ambient temperatures
- Built-in charger in storage dock (powered by AA or AAA batteries depending on model)
- Engraved numbers to identify probes in MEATER Block
- Real bamboo wood block with magnetic backing to stick to your barbecue
Ease of use:
- Guided cook system works off USDA recommendations, but, can be set to your own targets as well
- Estimates how long you’ve got left
- Alerts you 5 minutes before your meat should reach your target temperature
- Also tells you how long your meat should rest based on it’s internal temperature
- Dishwasher safe
Extras:
- Longer range in Plus model boosts connectivity up to 165 feet
- WiFi connectivity with MEATER Block
- Works with Alexa
- If you use the MEATER Plus with a second device (like a spare phone or tablet), you can use WiFi too
About Apption Labs
Apption Labs is the tech start-up company that designed and brought the MEATER to market.
Instead of just focusing on building gadgets to sell, Apption aimed to create a complete solution to the everyday problem of dirty, messy and limiting wires on barbecue thermometers.
The result was the Original MEATER, then the MEATER Plus and MEATER Block, being the first completely wireless thermometer available on the market.
Half way through 2021, Traeger bought Apption Labs in a deal that made sense based on Traeger’s history of innovation and growth.
Since then, Traeger has kept selling MEATER thermometers like it’s a separate brand and you can buy MEATER’s on the Traeger website too.
But, the more major development is that Traeger developed a MEATER to be used exclusively with their latest touchscreen grills. The Traeger X MEATER Wireless Meat Thermometer lets you monitor your cook wirelessly but have the thermometer work in with the main controller on your pellet grill as well.
This review of the MEATER will focus on the MEATER Plus and MEATER Block models only. We won’t cover the Traeger X MEATER thermometers here.
What Is The MEATER Wireless Thermometer?
The MEATER wireless thermometer is the original, truly wire-free meat thermometer on the market.
Suitable for grilling, smoking, or use inside in your regular kitchen, the MEATER takes the guesswork out of cooking by telling you exactly when your meat is perfectly cooked.
There’s no more cutting your steak in half to see if it’s cooked to your liking. No more overdone brisket, dried out ribs or trying to check if those chicken juices are running clear.
Instead, you can select USDA-safe presets based on how well you want a particular type of meat cooked, or, use your own, the MEATER will monitor the internal temperature of what you’re cooking and tell you when it’s ready.
Simple as that! Yes, it can make you a better cook. And, yes, it makes cooking less stressful. It just takes all the guesswork out, leaving you with perfectly cooked foods.
The pros do use them too.
How Do the MEATER Thermometers Work?
Each MEATER probe actually has two sensors in them.
The pointed end (that you insert into the meat), gives you the internal meat temperature while the ceramic coated tip simultaneously measures the ambient temperature of your grill, oven or smoker.
The real-time data is then sent to the MEATER app using Bluetooth or WiFi (depending on the model) that then shows you both temperature readings along with an estimated remaining cook time and a graph of how the temperature has been progressing in your cook so far.
What's The Difference Between The Original MEATER, MEATER Plus and MEATER Block?
The Original MEATER is the cheapest and most basic meat thermometer in the MEATER range.
With the Original you get one probe and a charging dock for it.
It’ll give you readings up to a maximum range of 33 feet if you’re grilling, using it in the oven, a rotisserie or a kamado. But, with the steel sides of a kettle grill or smoker, the range is reduced to a maximum of 10 feet.
It’s still got all the same features as the more expensive models. The lower price is because it doesn’t have the same technology giving it an extended range.
The upgraded MEATER Plus model, includes one probe and it’s charging dock. But, although it looks almost exactly the same as the Original MEATER, it’s got a built-in Bluetooth extender to boost the range up to 165 feet with any type of cooker including smokers.
The MEATER Block comes with 4 probes so you can monitor multiple cuts. It’s got the same 165 foot Bluetooth range as the Plus. But, there’s WiFi as well so you can see your data and use the app from anywhere with an internet connection. So, while you need to keep the block itself right by the barbecue, the range is pretty much unlimited.
The MEATER Block also has a screen on the charging block so you can use the standalone mode to view your cook without using a smartphone if you want to. But, you’ve got to keep it close to do so.
Unboxing and Setting Up the MEATER Plus
There really isn’t much to unboxing any of the MEATER thermometers.
They come beautifully packaged so you wouldn’t even need to wrap it as a gift. And, it comes with a battery so you simply take it out of the box, pull the tab out and it’ll start charging.
Give the probe a few hours to charge, download the app and you’re good to go.
All of the MEATER models also come with a short instruction manual (if you’d even call it that).
Have a quick read. Or, just open the app and it’ll walk you through exactly what to do.
Unboxing and Setting Up the MEATER Block
Just like the MEATER Plus, the MEATER Block is beautifully packaged!
It comes with 4 x AA batteries already inserted. All you need to do is open the magnetic backing cover and remove the tab so that the probes start charging.
You can also remove the probe warning stickers and pop the probe clips on.
Then it’ll be an 8 hour minimum wait to give those probes enough juice to last through a long smoking session.
While you’re waiting, download the MEATER App and have a quick read of the simple instructions if you want to. If not, the app will guide you through exactly what to do when you’re ready to start using them.
Quality of the MEATER
There’s no doubt about it that the MEATER is a top quality product.
Straight out of the box, you’re impressed with the finishing of the charging block. It’s got nice touches like the burnt-in logo and the magnetic battery cover backing.
The meat probes themselves are made of high-quality stainless steel and the black handle tip is ceramic.
We’ve been using ours for well over two years, very regularly now and the MEATER always cleans up perfectly. There’s absolutely no rust or damage to the steel.
Smoke can discolour the probe a little. But, simply wiping it with a rougher type of cloth gets it looking brand new again. And, both the probe and the charging dock look basically just like they did on day one.
Probe Accuracy and Speed
Since you’re going to be relying on it, having a meat probe that reads accurately is of course, very important.
MEATER claims to be calibrated within +/-1°F which is impressively accurate and at the top of the market. But, how does it really perform?
In our own tests, the MEATER stood up really well.
We tested the MEATER probes against a variety of other wireless meat thermometers, instant-read thermometers and in boiling water. Every time, the internal meat temperature reading it gave was consistent and more accurate or just as accurate as the competition.
Our testing showed that the MEATER Plus was at most +/- 5°F out from the actual vs temperature reading.
That’s darn good in our books and one of the most accurate out there.
In terms of speed, we have no complaints there either. You get a reading within a few seconds and you’re good to go.
Something to mention though, is that when you’re looking at the ambient temperature reading, it’ll read low at first.
Your grill thermometer and probes you set up separately give you an air temperature reading that’s far away from the meat. But, because the MEATER’s second sensor is only a few inches away from your meat, it will be affected by the colder meat temperature at the start of your cook.
After a bit of time, the ambient temperature should read fairly accurately as well. Just be aware that you’re going to get a falsely low reading if you’ve stuck the probe into a cold slab of meat and thrown it on to the grill or smoker.
Just check the temperature gauge on your barbecue if you want to see if it’s up to temperature at the start of the cook.
The Sacrificial Potato Trick
To measure the ambient temperature of your barbecue, you unfortunately can’t just put the whole MEATER on your grate and leave it to give you a reading.
The more sensitive internal meat probe (the sharp end) can only handle a maximum temperature of 212°F which you’ll probably quickly exceed even if you’re cooking at low and slow temperatures.
Once the probe part gets over that temperature, you’ll risk damaging the whole thermometer, and, it’s just too expensive for us to ignore MEATER’s advice and go with a ‘she’ll be right’ attitude… your probe probably won’t be alright if it gets too hot.
So, if your barbecue doesn’t have a temperature gauge (or a reliable enough one) and you want the MEATER to give you an accurate ambient temperature from the get-go, you can use this little trick.
When you’re firing your barbecue up, grab a potato, stick the MEATER in there and put it in your ‘cue.
Because the potato will have been sitting at room temperature, it won’t have that cold pocket of air around it like your meat will so you’ll get an accurate ambient temperature straight away while protecting the more sensitive internal meat probe part.
Once you’ve got your temperature stabilized, simply move the MEATER over to your meat.
Just be careful, the ceramic probe tip will get hot!
You can even bake your potato up too.
The MEATER App
Wireless thermometer apps can be pretty rubbish. But, not this one.
The MEATER range is premium. And, they’ve put the money into developing a great app that’s easy to use and looks top notch too.
First-off, connecting to the app is simple and works for us first try every time.
You literally pull it out of the charger to turn it on, launch your app and then follow the on-screen steps to set up your cook.
There’s a thorough selection of pre-set cooking temperatures. It’s not just the basic beef, chicken or pork. The MEATER app dials them down to type of cut and how cooked you’d like it.
Select a MEATER target temperature recommendation, USDA endorsed targets, and, if you’ve got your own thing down pat, you can just go ahead and enter your own temperature too.
After you’ve set a target for your internal temperature, you’ll see the current temperature and ambient temperature readings. And, after a bit of time, MEATER will estimate how long you’ve got until dinner’s ready.
In our experience, the estimates are fairly accurate. It keeps adjusting the estimated remaining time based on the ambient temperature and how the internal temperature your meat is progressing. The estimate tends to get more accurate as you cook.
In the MEATER app, you can also set timers and alarms for minimum and maximum internal and ambient temperatures.
If you want to be reminded to wrap the meat at a certain time, or, put the sides in the oven, you can set an independent alarm, labeled as whatever you want.
It’s designed to be a complete solution to cooking timing and it does a darn good job of it.
If you do have the MEATER Block with multiple probes, you can see all four readings all at once.
They’ll be labeled by the probe number and meat cook type (or whatever you want) so you don’t have to try to remember whether you stuck the #3 in the brisket or the pork.
Range
The range you’re really going to get from a wireless meat thermometer is always kind of questionable. But, we have found the MEATER to work pretty much as expected.
The Original MEATER will give you about 33 feet of range on an open-topped barbecue, grill, or in your oven. In a smoker or kettle grill with the lid closed, you’re down to 10 feet of range.
The most popular MEATER Plus wireless meat thermometer ups this to 165 feet. We’ve found that to be pretty accurate, even through multiple walls. We haven’t needed use the MEATER Link to extend the range unless we’re leaving the house.
Then, there’s the MEATER Block which gives the same 165 feet of Bluetooth range. But, has built-in WiFi so just by connecting it to your home network you can see exactly what’s going on inside your barbecue anywhere you’ve got internet.
The probes in the MEATER Block themselves still use Bluetooth to send the data to the Block. This means that you need to keep the bamboo receiver block sitting next to your barbecue. But, yes, you can check on your meat while you’re out and about, you don’t need to be right next to it all day.
Using the MEATER Link to Extend Your Range
To get a longer range on the MEATER Original or Plus, you can actually set up what MEATER call the MEATER Link.
It’s completely free to use, you just need a second Bluetooth device like your partners cell phone or a tablet that connects to the internet too.
To use the MEATER Link you’re going to connect both devices to the one probe and the internet. Then, leave one device at home within a working range of your barbecue. This device will transmit the data to the MEATER’s Cloud and you’ll still be able to see your barbecues progress and recieve alerts via the internet.
There’s nothing complicated about it.
But, if you can’t convince your wife to leave her phone at home for the MEATER Link, remember you can always go the MEATER Block to give you WiFi access without needing a second device.
Watch the video below for a step by step guide on how to set up the MEATER Link.
Maximum Temperature Tolerance
With two parts to it; the ambient temperature probe and the internal meat temperature probe, there’s two different maximum temperatures you need to be aware of when you’re using the MEATER.
Firstly, the hottest environment you should be putting your MEATER into is 527°F (that’s 275°C).
That’ll definitely handle all your low and slow smoking needs. It also easily covers anything you’ll be baking in your smoker or oven. And, it’s also going to cover some grilling situations too.
We are a bit cautious using the MEATER when we’re grilling over an open flame or searing because we don’t want the hotter flare-ups to damage the probe. It is an expensive piece of kit after all.
So, if we’re grilling over an open flame and want to use the MEATER to get a reading we usually leave the probe out while the meat fat is causing flare ups. Then, we stick the probe in once things have died down a little. Or, we just pop the probe in as a final check.
The other max temperature you should be aware of is the maximum internal temperature. This is the hottest your meat can be inside and all of the MEATER probes can handle up to 212°F (or 100°C).
A well-done steak maxes out at about 160°F, chicken at 165°F and salmon at 145°F, a long way away from the probes allowable max.
The closest you’re going to get to the maximum temperature limit will be if you’re smoking.
We generally smoke a brisket to no hotter 205°F. We also do pulled pork, lamb or ribs the same which is all 100% fine.
We have occassionally left a smoked piece of meat in there too long. If that happens, you will know about it! The alarm sounds almost continuously on your cell phone and you can’t access anything else on the app until you’ve taken the probe out of the too high heat and it’s cooled down a little.
So the MEATER’s got your back. And, no damage was done.
Versatility
With those maximum temperatures in mind, what can you actually use your MEATER for?
Well, most things you want to do on your grill, smoker or in the kitchen.
The MEATER is ideal for low and slow smoking, high-heat grilling, baking, roasting, barbecueing and braising.
We’ve used ours in the oven (it works great).
You can pop it in an air-fryer.
Using the MEATER for sous-vide is a-okay too.
And, a completely wireless setup like the MEATER is the only option for constant temperature monitoring in a rotisserie where any cords would be completely impractical.
But, be aware that you cannot use the MEATER in a deep-fryer or as a candy thermometer. The temperature will exceed the maximum safety benchmarks.
If you want a meat thermometer for your deep-fryer, check out our review of the MeatStick X.
Can I sear with a MEATER probe?
The maximum ambient temperature of 527°F/275°C means that the MEATER isn’t suitable for high-heat searing.
Exceeding the maximum suggested temperature would risk damaging or breaking the probe.
Instead, try reverse searing where you use the probe to cook your meat first at a lower temperature. Then, once an ideal internal temperature has been reached, take the probe out and sear the outside for a minute or two to get that nicely grilled crust.
If you’ve never tried reverse searing before, you’ll actually get better results because you’re making sure the inside is cooked just how you like it and won’t be left underdone.
This video shows exactly how to do it and can be adapted for any type of barbecue.
Charging
Inside the Original MEATER and MEATER Plus you’ll find one AAA battery. The MEATER Block has four AA’s.
Now, there’s two parts to the MEATER that need charging to work; the probe itself and the receiving dock or block.
A fully charged meat probe on any of the MEATER’s should give you 24 hours of temperature monitoring time. After this, you need to put it back in the charging dock which is also the storage dock so, super simple.
We have never had a problem with the meat probes dying on us, even during really long smokes.
MEATER claim you’ll get about 100 charges of the meat probe off a single battery on the MEATER Plus. With a charge lasting approximately 24 hours, it’s pretty efficient.
As for the stated 100 charges, we haven’t quite got there.
The receiving dock on the MEATER Plus also needs battery to use. It runs off the same single AAA battery that charges the probes. So, maybe the running of the dock wasn’t taken into account for those stats? Or, maybe my batteries aren’t so good?
The battery in our MEATER Plus needs changing after about 8 months of very regular use. For us that’s probably about 50-60 charges. And, we’re really happy with that rate even though it’s a way off what MEATER suggested.
You shouldn’t be flipping through batteries every week or two regardless.
But, we have found that we go through the batteries on the MEATER Block quite quickly.
You’re charging 4 probes off them, running the small screen on the block itself and, using the WiFi connectivity. It’s a lot more stuff to power than the simpler MEATER Plus.
MEATER state that you should get over 24 hours in WiFi mode or over 72 hours on fresh battery power.
On average, we change the 4 x AA batteries every 4-6 smokes. That’s with using 3 or 4 probes so it’s a reasonable amount recharging.
But, there’s an alternate USB port on the MEATER Block that really seems like it’s how the Block should be used.
The micro-USB cable you need to plug into this isn’t included.
But, if you plug the block in, you can run the Block itself and charge the probes via the USB power.
It won’t charge the batteries in the Block even if you put your own rechargeable batteries in. But, you can charge and completely run your MEATER Block via a USB cord.
You will need access to power out by your barbecue to do this though because remember, the Block does need to be kept close to your grill.
Issues With The MEATER Thermometers
As with any good product, it’s not perfect. And, Bluetooth naturally does come with a few issues…
Firstly, the Bluetooth connection on the MEATER Plus will cut in and out if you wrap your meat and probe inside aluminum foil. The foil naturally interfers with the range.
This is a Bluetooth problem in general, not a MEATER specific problem that could be improved.
A work around for this is either you use barbecue paper instead of foil (we prefer it for most cuts of meat and it promotes better bark formation). Or, you simply make sure the ceramic tip of the MEATER is sticking out of the foil like you can see in our picture below.
Or, here’s a quick video showing you how to do this.
The second thing worth knowing before you buy a MEATER is that the Original and Plus probes don’t work with the MEATER Block. They are not interchangeable.
So, if you buy the Plus to see what it’s like and later decide you need more probes so might as well get the MEATER Block, you can’t just use your Plus probe as well.
The probes themselves are the same size, they just don’t pair with the app.
But, thanks to customer feedback, you can now by a 2 Probe MEATER Block. And, you can add probes 3 & 4 if you decide you need more later.
Just be aware though, you do need to buy the 2 Probe Set that’s designed for the MEATER Block. You can’t just wack an old MEATER Plus probe in there.
But, the probes are properly numbered so you’ll have a full set just like you’d bought the 4 probe MEATER Block to start with.
But, how many probes to go with at the start?
Basically, if you smoke multiple cuts of meat at the same time and want to monitor the progress of them all, just get more probes from the get-go!
The same goes for if you think the MEATER Plus might not be quite enough range for you. Just go the Block, you won’t have any issues and won’t waste money upgrading in the future.
The last ‘negative’ of the MEATER thermometers is that there’s a minimum probe depth.
You do have to insert the probe up to the ingraved line to protect the more tip that’s got a lower temperature tollerance. It’s no problem if you’re smoking a thick slab of brisket. But, when you’re cooking a piece of salmon or a steak, you’ll need to go sideways and just check that the probe isn’t sticking out the other side.
We wouldn’t really call this a negative even.
Most meat thermometers will have this issue anyway. It’s just something to be aware of.
Warranty and Customer Service
All MEATER probes are covered by a 1 year limited warranty. The brand has a good reputation for customer service so we’d be pretty confident that you’ll be okay if you do have any problems within this time.
There’s also a pretty extensive library of FAQs on their website you could try if you are having any problems before contacting MEATER directly.
Cleaning the MEATER Probes
If you’ve ever used another ‘wireless’ meat thermometer, you’ll know that cleaning them can be a pain. You can’t put the wires in the dishwasher and the grease gets all mucky in the webbing of the cables.
So, not having any wires on the MEATER makes things a heap easier!
But, here’s where the real joy lies… They’re also dishwasher safe!
That officially makes them the easiest meat probes to clean.
We pop them in the dishwasher after every use. Then, straight back in the charging block so they’re ready for the next cook.
If the block or charging dock gets dirty, give it a wipe down. It’s just like a bamboo cutting board and can handle the odd splash of meat juice and bit of grease.
Pros and Cons of the MEATER Wireless Meat Thermometers
What We Like About the MEATER Wireless Thermometers
- Absolutely no wires: No feeding wires through probe ports, no trying to clean oily wires and no messy storage
- Accurate temperature: Can be set to °F or °C
- Easy to use: The app is great. There’s a wide variety of preset targets, or, set your own. It automatically calculates expected cook times and tells you when the meat has rested long enough.
- Two temperature measurements per probe: One gives you the internal meat temperature and the other gives you the ambient temperature inside your barbecue.
- Versatile cooking tool: Can be used in a smoker, grill, oven, air fryer, or sous-vide as long as maximum temperatures are adhered to.
- Dishwasher safe: Could not be easier to clean up
- Works with Alexa and Apple Watch
What We Don't Like About the MEATER Wireless Thermometers
- Not ideal for open flame grilling: The maximum ambient temperature means the MEATER isn’t ideal for searing. Consider reverse searing with the MEATER instead.
- Aluminum foil reduces signal range: If you’re wrapping your meat, use bbq paper instead, or, leave the probe tip sticking through the foil.
- MEATER Block is power hungry: Either you’re going to go through a lot of batteries or you’ll be plugging in your Block with a micro-USB cable, not included.
- Probes aren’t interchangeable: The Original MEATER and MEATER+ are NOT compatible with the MEATER Block. So, if you want more probes later on, or to upgrade to the unlimited range of the WiFi Block, you can’t just grab a 2 probe Block and use it with your existing probes. You’re upgrading your whole system.
Our Verdict on the MEATER Wireless Thermometer
If you’re after a high-quality meat thermometer for grilling, smoking, or using in your regular oven, the MEATER is our absolute go to!
With zero wires to contend with, it’s super simple to use, reads very accurately, and, is much better quality than a lot of competitors.
It’s also one of the only solutions to continuously monitor your meat in a rotisserie because there’s not a lot of good quality wire-free options on the market.
The only major consideration when you’re bying the MEATER is it’s range.
The Original, in our opinion, is only good for grilling because as soon as you close the lid on a smoker, your range drops to a mere 10 feet.
The Plus model doesn’t cost much more and gives you an extended range of up to 165 feet and is suitable for using with any type of smoker or barbecue.
Then, if you’re smoking more than one cut, there’s just no beating the MEATER Block.
You get 4 probes with the one charger and it’s got a screen so you can operate it without your smartphone as well. It’s also got built-in WiFi connectivity so you can monitor your progress from anywhere with an internet connection. And, there’s no moving a single probe between different cuts of meat mid-cook.
The only downside of the MEATER Block is that it uses a lot of battery so I’d be prepared to use it or at least charge the probes with a micro-USB cable (not included).
The MEATER thermometers are more expensive than most other options on the market. But, they are without a doubt, the best.
Regardless of which model you choose, we feel that the quality, convenience and ease of use you get with the MEATER IS 100% worth it.
It’s definitely a must-have accessory for smoking, grilling, or the food-lover who values precision with ease.
Other Alternatives to the MEATER Thermometers
The MeatStick X
- Longer bluetooth range
- Slightly higher maximum ambient temperature
- Can connect to 8 probes vs 4 with the MEATER
- Suitable for sous-vide, deep-frying as well
- Not as accurate as the MEATER
Read our full review of the MeatStick X.
ThermoPro Twin TempSpike
- Longer 500 foot range
- Same temperature range
- Available with 2 probes or a single probe
- Cheaper than the MEATER
- Wires connect the probes to the control unit
Or, check out our review of the best wireless meat thermometers here.
FAQs About the MEATER Wireless Meat Thermometer Range
If you’re after the best, yes, the MEATER is worth the money on it’s price tag.
It’s one of the most expensive meat thermometer out there. But, it’s also the most accurate, the best quality, and, has the most intuitive app compared to other totally wire-free products.
And, if you want better value, the MEATER Block gives you 4 times the probes plus the unlimited range of the built-in WiFi connectivity for not even 3 times the price.
The top of the line MEATER Block is clearly the best thermomter in the MEATER range in terms of both ease of use and value for money.
With the MEATER Block you get a built-in WiFi connection for a limitless range (as long as you’ve got internet access). And, you get either 2 or 4 probes depending on which model you go for.
It’s unbeatable value and gives you that peace of mind that it’ll always work, even if you build that big dream house one day or end up owning a lot of land.
But, because all of the MEATER range is based on the same technology, remember that you’re getting the same accuracy with any of the MEATER products. And, which MEATER is best for you will depend on what you’re planning on using them for.
If all you’re doing is grilling with the lid off and you’re right by the bbq or have a really small house, the Original MEATER, with it’s maximum of 33 foot range can do the job.
But, if you’re smoking or barbecuing with the lid on and want to be able to see what’s going on when you’re further away from your ‘cue, you’ll need to go the MEATER Plus at a minimum.
It’s built-in Bluetooth repeater gives you up to 165 feet of range. You can connect it to the Cloud and see your cooking progress by using a second device and your internet connection.
Yes, the MEATER meat thermometers are designed to be left in your meat throughout your entire cook.
This will give you a constant temperature reading of your internal meat temperature and the ambient temperature of your barbecue so you can see exactly what’s going on and exactly when it’s best to eat.
MEATER claim their thermomters are accurate within +/- 1°F. In our independent testing, we found the MEATER Plus to read within about 5°F of what we know to be true.
That’s close enough in our opinion, and the discrepency is small enough for us to say that the MEATER thermometers are one of the most reliably accurate out there.
The MEATER is ideal for using in your kitchen oven as well. Simply place the charging block nearby and you shouldn’t have any connectivity issues.
Just be sure not to exceed the maximum ambient temperature of 527°F which most ovens don’t even get to anyway.
The whole MEATER range is designed for long smoking sessions. The battery lasts up to 24 hours on a full charge. We’ve seen it go 30 hours without dying.
If you’re using the MEATER Block for a long smoking session we do recommend plugging it into power with a micro-USB cable that’s not included.
The probes themselves will be fine. But with WiFi the Block itself is quite power hungry. You’re in a bit of trouble if your receiver stops working mid-cook. So, we’d plan to have an extra power outlet near your barbecue to plug your MEATER Block into.
Yes, we always use the MEATER to make sure that we’re perfectly cooking our steak to our liking.
The only thing to be careful with when you’re using the MEATER on steak is that you don’t exceed the maximum ambient temperature allowance of 527°F. This means that you might need to wait to insert your probe until after any meat flare ups have stopped, or, reverse sear your steaks instead.
The MEATER has a very limited range of up to 33 feet when using it on a gas grill, kamado, rotisserie or your regular kitchen oven. Inside a smoker or a kettle grill with the lid on, your Bluetooth range will reduce to about 10 feet.
That means you won’t be able to move your viewing device (smartphone) further away than that without it disconnecting.
The MEATER+ has a built-in Bluetooth repeater.
This boosts the range up to 165 feet, giving you good access within your house and the ability to use it in a smoker without a hassle.
You can connect up to 5 MEATER products (not probes) to the MEATER app at a time.
For example, you can run multiple MEATER Plus’s at the same time or have a MEATER Block and use that alongside a MEATER+.
All of the probes will show up in a long list in the MEATER app. You’ll just set up each cook with the name of what you’re cooking so you can easily see which probe is for which meat.
If you want 2 probes, you can get the 2 Probe MEATER Block. Or, grab a 2 pack of the MEATER Plus.
The MEATER cannot be used for deep frying. The oil temperature for deep frying would exceed the maximum safe MEATER temperature causing the probe to fail.
Yes, you can use the MEATER probes in an air fryer. Check out MEATER’S Air Fryer Fish and Chips recipe.
Yes, it is safe to use the MEATER thermometers for sous vide.
To do so, you’ll insert the probe into your food, vacuum-seal it and then place it in the water bath.
No, you cannot use any of the MEATER meat thermometers in water.
They are water resistant, not waterproof. This means that they cannot be submerged in water for extended periods of time. But, they are still safe to put in the dishwasher or use in sous-vide where they’re protected from the water.
Yes, tin foil or aluminum foil does reduce the Bluetooth range of the MEATER probes.
So, either use butchers paper to fully wrap your meet. Or, make sure the end of the MEATER probe is sticking out of the foil.
Yes, all MEATER models can work without WiFi or an internet connection.
The MEATER Original and Plus models use a Bluetooth connection to transfer the data to your smartphone.
The MEATER Block has a standalone mode which uses the devices Bluetooth connectivity to view temperatures on the Block itself.
Just be aware that if you’re using the MEATER+ or Block without a WiFi connection, you’ll be limited to the 165 foot Bluetooth range.
All MEATER probes should last at least 24 hours on one charge. This makes it ideal for very long and overnight smokes.
Using both the MEATER Link and MEATER Cloud are free services for all MEATER owners.
You will have to sign up for a free MEATER Cloud account to use the service as your data will be stored online.
Users spoke, MEATER listened and now you can check on your meat directly through your Apple watch.
Aluminum foil will block the Bluetooth connection from the MEATER probe to the dock.
If you’re wrapping in foil, simply leave the ceramic tip sticking out. Or, swap to using barbecue paper instead which helps create better bark and is healthier for you anyway.
You can use the MEATER probes in a rack of ribs.
We suggest trying to find a thicker slab of ribs so you’ve got more meat to stick the probe through.
You’ll of course have to go sideways and stick the MEATER in between the bones. But, using the MEATER in beef or pork ribs shouldn’t be any problem.
Yes, yes, yes! The good folks at MEATER made sure you could just throw your MEATER probe in the dishwasher once you’ve finished your cook.
This makes it the easiest meat thermometer on the market to clean!
The MEATER Block is not waterproof so it’s best not to leave it out in the rain. If it’s raining and the barbecue I’m using isn’t undercover, I simply place the entire MEATER Block in a large plastic container beside my barbecue. The plastic won’t interfere with the Bluetooth connectivity or range.
The MEATER wireless meat thermometers are limited in terms of temperature range and reciever range.
The internal probes can handle up to 212°F (meat) while the ambient part of the probe can handle a maximum of 527°F
And, the MEATER+ and MEATER Block have a maximum receiving range of 165 feet (50 meters) with Bluetooth connectivity. You can, however, use either device with WiFi so you can see temperatures anywhere with an internet connection.
In July 2021, Traeger aquired Apption Labs, the company that designed and brought the MEATER range to the market.
So, yes, Traeger now own MEATER.
But, they continue to sell the MEATER thermometers under their own brand as well as through the Traeger website.
Traeger have also developed a collaboration product with MEATER that lets the wireless thermometer technology work seamlessly with Traegers touchscreen display grills. They’ve called this product Traeger X MEATER.
All MEATER Probe Specs
- Bluetooth LE 4.0 wireless connection
- Maximum internal temperature: 212°F (meat)
- Maximum ambient temperature: 527°F (cooker)
- Stainless steel and ceramic construction
- Water resistant and easy to clean
- Dishwasher safe
- Rechargeable: Over 24 hours of continuous cooking
- Dimensions: 130mm length and 6mm diameter
- MEATER Block has numbered probes for easy identification
MEATER Original and Plus Charger Specs
- Store and charge your MEATER probe
- Magnetic backing: Attach anywhere
- Charges MEATER up to 100 times with one AAA battery
- Real wood to match any kitchen or outdoor decor
- LED indicator to show battery state
- Dimensions: 157mm L x 37mm W x 28mm H
- MEATER Plus has built-in Bluetooth repeater extends range up to 165ft
MEATER Block Charger Specs
- Built-in WiFi repeater extends range over your home network
- Directly connects to the MEATER Cloud for on-the-go monitoring
- Store and charge your MEATER probe
- Charges MEATER using 4x AA batteries
- Power alternatively using Micro USB for long cooks
- Real wood to match any kitchen or outdoor decor
- OLED display with touch capacitive control to cook without the app
- Max outdoor operation temperature: 140°F
- Dimensions: 132mm L x 39mm W x 157mm H
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.
