Are you passionate about making your candy? Like all sweet treats, candy is as fun to create as it is to enjoy eating. Making candy is a process that brings parents closer to their children. Yet, if not done right, the candy can taste terrible, and the kids won’t look forward to it from your kitchen anymore. Fortunately, there are a few exceptional candy thermometers worth considering over others among the many available in the marketplace. This gadget can greatly support your candy-making endeavor, so you can get the flavors and taste of your candy to be more precise, through accurate temperature readings while making it.
The best candy thermometer makes the candy-making task super easy. The best candy thermometer is also helpful across a spectrum of other functions, including checking the temperature of meat, baked items, liquids, etc. Since candy thermometers come in all sorts of shapes and sizes these days, we’ve narrowed the choice down to the best few. Read our candy thermometer reviews below to see which of these products deserves to be your next brand new cooking companion.
At A Glance: Our Top Picks for Candy Thermometers
- Lavatools PT12 Javelin Digital Instant Read Thermometer – Our Top Pick
- ThermoPro TP03 Digital Instant Read Thermometer
- Habor 022 Instant Read Digital Cooking, Candy Thermometer
- Polder Candy/Jelly/Deep Fry Thermometer
- SOQOOL Digital Instant Read Meat Thermometer
- Taylor 9839-15 Adjustable Head Digital Candy Thermometer
Table of Contents
Best Candy Thermometer Reviews
To make great-tasting candy or deliciously cooked food, you need to accurately check the internal temperature of the food during the process. To help you achieve perfect results, you need to use one of the best instant-read candy thermometers available.
| IMAGE | PRODUCT | FEATURES | PRICE |
|---|---|---|---|
 | Lavatools PT12 Javelin Digital Instant Read Thermometer | • Battery Life: 4000+ hours • Temperature Range: -40°F~482°F / -40°C~250°C | |
 | ThermoPro TP03 Digital Instant Read Thermometer | • Battery: 3A Battery • Temperature Range: -58°F to 572°F (-50°C to 300°C) | |
 | Habor 022 Instant Read Digital Cooking, Candy Thermometer | • Temperature Range: -58℉ to 572℉ | |
 | Polder Candy/Jelly/Deep Fry Thermometer | • Temperature range: 90°F to 400°F (30°C to 200°C) | |
 | SOQOOL Digital Instant Read Meat Thermometer | • Temperature range: -50°C~ 300°C (-58°F ~572°F) | |
 | Taylor 9839-15 Adjustable Head Digital Candy Thermometer | • Battery: LR44 battery • Temperature range: -40 and 500 F |
1. Lavatools PT12 Javelin Digital Instant Read Thermometer
Our top pick is the Lavatools PT12 Javelin, which is considered the gold standard among all digital read meat thermometers. Due to its wide temperature range (-40°F-482°F / -40°C-250°C), it’s considered as an excellent candy thermometer as well. It gives you a super-fast reading (within 3-4 seconds) at any given cooking temperature. If you want an instant-read thermometer that’s true to its specifications, the Javelin is your ideal choice. While you’re cooking, this thermometer is excellent for measuring the temperature of candy, baked items, oil fryers, coffee (homebrews), and meat. It’s genuinely one of the most reliable instant-read thermometers because it has an incredible accuracy of ±0.9°F.
When it comes to the best candy thermometer reviews, the list topper couldn’t have been more obvious. The Javelin has perfection in performance and design. Not only is it the most accurate instrument, but it’s also designed innovatively, so users find it extremely easy to use. The temperature is displayed on a large 1.4-inch display screen, making it very easy-to-read. The material the Javelin is made of is IP65 splash-proof. The product has an integrated magnet, so you can easily store it in your oven or refrigerator.
The perks don’t end there! Its battery grants it 4000+ hours of survival time before needing replacement. Also, Lavatools develops products that are built to last. In line with that motto, Javelin’s NSF certification ensures its suitable commercial and professional use. That’s as superior as a product in this category can get! Furthermore, the product is backed by a 3-year limited warranty.
Pros
- The 2.7-inch long probe makes the Javelin a handy tool for candy making.
- The silver-ion and anti-microbial coating make it a safe instrument.
- Magnetic back.
- The probe has a thin ending so that your candy, meat, etc., do not have big holes.
- Highly accurate food temperature checking.
- Comes in a choice of 6 colors.
Cons
- Some users found the read accuracy changed slightly after a year of using it; hence occasional calibration is essential.
Final Verdict: Editors Choice
2. ThermoPro TP03 Digital Instant Read Thermometer
The ThermoPro TP03 is an instant-read meat thermometer with a digital display. It’s super-fast, accurate, smart-designed, and has a user-friendly display. The foldable 3.9-inch food-grade probe pops open with the push of a button. The high-precision sensor lets you take temperature readings each time within 3-5 seconds. Folding the probe back in is as easy as opening it.
This thermometer is the perfect kitchen tool for instant, accurate readings when it comes to the temperature of candy, meat, bread, homebrews, coffee, and many other types of liquids, baked goods, and meats. The thermometer has a neat backlight LCD and is accurate to ±0.9F. It’s the perfect device for both indoor and outdoor cooking.
There are a magnetic back and a hook that allows for comfortable storage options of the thermometer. If you don’t switch off the readout, it will automatically shut off in 10 minutes, thus conserving the battery power.
It comes with AAA batteries as well as a user manual. Another useful feature is that it lets you choose your preferred unit of measurement, whether it’s Celsius or Fahrenheit. To ensure you don’t end up overcooking or under-cooking your favorite recipes, choose the ThermoPro TP03 instant digital thermometer without further thought!
Pros
- Instant temperature reading within 3 to 5 seconds.
- The backlight LCD.
- Foldable stainless steel probe grants you a safer, cleaner experience.
- Precise readings through the step-down probe.
- Battery conservation feature.
- Celsius & Fahrenheit selection choice.
- Temperature range of -58°F to 572°F.
- Low-priced.
Cons
- It isn’t as long-lasting as you’d expect. Yet, it’s pure value-for-money for the price and performance.
3. Habor 022 Instant Read Digital Cooking, Candy Thermometer
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It can be risky getting too close to hot surfaces when you’re trying to measure the temperature of a large volume of candy in the making, or a large-sized hot turkey being roasted. You can eliminate that risk if you use the ‘Habor 022’ instant-read digital cooking candy thermometer. It has an extra-long 4.7-inch probe made of stainless steel and an 8mm ultra-thin pointed head. You can comfortably poke it through the center of the largest turkey, fish steak, and thick ribeye or use it to read the temperature of any liquid.
In just 4-6 seconds, you’ll know if the food being cooked is overdone or undercooked. An accuracy to ±1°C (1.8°F) is great, yet not comparable to that of the other listed contenders in our best candy thermometer reviews. Yet, the extra-long probe compensates for that shortfall. Furthermore, the auto-shut-off function turns the thermometer off automatically after 10 minutes of non-use, another commendable feature.
The wide temperature range of -58℉ to 572℉ (-50°C to 300°C) further implies this model deserves a spot on the best candy thermometers list. Finally, with the package, you also get a user manual and a meat temperature guide to get the ball rolling as soon as you unpack.
Pros
- You can choose Celsius or Fahrenheit.
- Has a protective sheath for easier storage and care.
- Durable stainless steel 4.7-inch probe.
- Portable.
- Batteries and temperature guide included.
- Wide temperature range suitable for candy-making.
Cons
- Although it’s incredibly accurate at ±1.8F, other thermometers are accurate to ±0.9F.
4. Polder Candy/Jelly/Deep Fry Thermometer
This amazing, high-performance thermometer by Polder gives you immense value for money. It costs less than 10 bucks, while it’s highly accurate! There are currently more than 8,500 customer ratings with 5 stars on Amazon for this product. Our research and review reveal exactly why!
This innovative gadget makes it incredibly easy to read the food temperature. Alongside temperature readings, you get clear demarcations of the candy style guide. The guide shows 6 unique temperature zone points (thread, softball, hardball, soft crack, hard crack, and deep fry stages). Moreover, the thermometer’s pot clip attachment clips to the pot’s side or pan securely for more precise readings. Another excellent feature is the insulated handle. It remains cool-to-the-touch without retaining heat.
You can use the thermometer for the wide temperature range of – 90°F to 400°F (30°C to 200°C). It’s great for making candy, melting chocolate, jams, cream sauces, deep-frying, and many other things. Furthermore, this incredible kitchen tool is made of rust-resistant steel and is dishwasher safe.
The only major drawback, as per a few users, is the 12-inch height of the thermometer. They felt it was too tall for noting the temperature of liquids, candy, and meat, etc., especially when it’s meager in quantity. All in all, this is a high-quality product at an unbelievably low price. Yet, it’s way bigger than most other thermometers.
Pros
- Amazing customer ratings.
- Unbelievably low price.
- Meant for a wide temperature range.
- Insulated cool-to-the-touch handle for safety.
- Made of rust-resistant steel, and is dishwasher safe.
Cons
- Too tall.
- As per a few users, the accuracy is a bit questionable.
5. SOQOOL Digital Instant Read Meat Thermometer
![Meat Thermometer[Upgraded 2022], Candy and Food Thermometer for Cooking, SOQOOL Digital Instant Read Meat Thermometer for Kitchen Oil Deep Fry BBQ Grill, Folding Probe Backlight & Calibration Function](data:image/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciIHZpZXdCb3g9IjAgMCAxIDEiIHdpZHRoPSIxIiBoZWlnaHQ9IjEiIGRhdGEtdT0iaHR0cHMlM0ElMkYlMkZtLm1lZGlhLWFtYXpvbi5jb20lMkZpbWFnZXMlMkZJJTJGNTFURC16cmJJTkwuanBnIiBkYXRhLXc9IjEiIGRhdGEtaD0iMSIgZGF0YS1iaXA9IiI+PC9zdmc+)
At under 15 bucks, the SOQOOL thermometer is quite the steal! It measures temperature within an ultra-rapid 2-3 seconds. Besides an ultra-fast readout, this FDA food-grade thermometer has an amazing accuracy of ±1°C ( 1.8°F ). What makes it the ideal kitchen instrument for both indoor and outdoor cooking, BBQ, grilling, and primarily candy-making is its wide temperature measurement range of -50°C to 300°C (-58°F ~572°F).
It has great specifications and features. To start with, it has lock and backlight functions. It can lock the last reading and keep it displayed until after removing the probe from the dangerously hot food. This way, you can safely check the temperature while it’s out and away from the hot conditions. Furthermore, the backlight helps you see the results clearly, especially of interest in the dark outdoors.
Another unique functionality is the recalibration feature. After a long period of use, many thermometers start showing results with lesser accuracy. This SOQOOL model can be easily recalibrated when the need arises so that you can continue seeing precise readings.
The ABS plastic body of this thermometer makes it quite robust, comfortable to handle, and durable. Carrying and storing it is super easy because of the integrated magnetic and hanging hole features.
The probe is a food-grade 304 stainless steel material. This means it’s great for getting you instant, accurate results. At the same time, you cook your favorite candy, meats, beverages, soups, fried foods, baked items, or even to measure ice or bathwater temperature.
Pros
- Excellent calibration function.
- As a safety feature, you can lock the current temperature.
- Switch conveniently between °C and °F.
- Amazingly bright and clear LCD light, great for nighttime grilling outdoors.
- The probe is food grade 304 stainless steel material.
- Easy to use, store, and maintain.
Cons
- Installing the battery is a bit tricky at first.
6. Taylor 9839-15 Adjustable Head Digital Candy Thermometer
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The brand ‘Taylor’ has long been associated with their motto “accuracy first.” There’s many conveniences related to using the Taylor 9839-15 candy thermometer, which is why we love it so much. This wonderful product lets you concentrate on your high heat candy making. At the same time, the temperature taking happens on its own, hands-free. Although, as a word of advice, it’s recommended to remove the thermometer rather than leaving it clipped on for too long.
As the name of this thermometer suggests, it has an adjustable swivel head that can be angled as per your desired viewing comfort. Moreover, there’s a neat pan clip on the thermometer’s stem that allows you to clip it securely onto the edge of any pan or pot while making candy or cooking other foods. The stem is a staggering 9-inches long and made of stainless steel. Simply install the included LR44 battery to get started.
It’s worth paying the relatively higher price (though just a couple of dollars higher) for the much wider temperature range. Viewing the temperature is fun and easy through the 1-inch LCD, displaying the really wide temperature range of -40 to 500 F (- 40°C – 260°C).
Spend a lot of time making candy on your own. This product will take you a long way in becoming the professional candy-maker you deserve to become.
Pros
- Durable stainless steel stem that is 9-inches long.
- 1-inch LCD for easy reading.
- Extremely wide temperature range.
- Candy temperature guide included.
- A pan clip & LR44 battery included.
Cons
- Periodic recalibration is required.
Things To Consider When Buying A Candy Thermometer
Like with all products, candy thermometers come in various shapes, sizes, and specifications. To purchase the right one for your needs, you should consider the following factors:
Accuracy
Accuracy is the most important characteristic of a good thermometer. Without accuracy, candy-making can lead to disastrous results and your precious time wasted. A candy thermometer gives you accurate results so that you can make great-tasting candy by monitoring its temperature while cooking it. However, to maintain accuracy over time, that same candy thermometer should be frequently calibrated.
Digital thermometers need less periodic calibrating compared to their manual counterparts. Users must be aware when calibration is required. The actual calibration process is not difficult to undertake. It involves the simple procedure of bringing a pot of water to a boil and reading its temperature with the candy thermometer. At the point of the boiling stage, if the reading is 212°F (100°C) then your candy thermometer is perfectly calibrated.
Analog Vs. Digital
Analog thermometers require the spirit or mercury to react to the changing heat. When the heat rises, the mercury will rise to a higher reading on the dial or scale, and vice versa. Analog thermometers are usually made of glass and metal. These types of thermometers are cheaper and easier to track down than digital thermometers.
Digital candy thermometers give more accurate results. These types of thermometers use an electronic means to read and deliver the temperature. The top models will beep when a desired food cooking temperature is reached. Furthermore, it’s not uncommon for the latest variants to come with a host of additional useful features that are customizable. Given a choice, your best bet is the digital candy thermometer. The reasons include its relative ease of use, customizable features, higher accuracy, and lower need for frequent calibration.
Reading Speed
Accuracy accompanied with quick reading speed, when combined, are the two most important features of a candy thermometer. You wouldn’t want to realize late that the food is cooked in terms of the latter aspect. That would simply lead to overcooked food. The best candy thermometers read the temperature anywhere within 2 to 5 seconds, which is considered a fast, desirable reading time range. As a thumb rule, the faster, the better. Another reason for this is, you wouldn’t want the lid to remain open for too long and slow down the overall cooking process.
Unique Features
When it comes to the latest and the best candy thermometers, some sought after modern features include:
- Pot clips
- A magnetic back
- An extra-long probe
- Celsius to Fahrenheit switchover
- Backlit display
- Automatic shut-off
- Larger LCD
- Waterproof
- Ease of Use
Temperature Range
An important distinguishment is that not every meat thermometer is a candy thermometer. Not every candy thermometer is a meat thermometer. However, some of the best ones may be great at being both. The reason is that candy and jelly are made in higher heat than meats, etc. Hence, an excellent candy thermometer measures a broader temperature range.
This brings us back to how much greater digital thermometers are for candy making. Simply because the best candy digital thermometers measure below 0 F and often exceed 500F, that sort of range covers all types of candy and meats. Since analog thermometers can’t cover such a vast temperature range, they’re not suitable for candy making, especially not for hard candy.
Final Thoughts
That was our list of the top 6 candy thermometers your money can buy. Each of them promises excellent performance so that you can achieve perfect cooking results. A great thermometer’s important features include the speed and accuracy of checking the temperature, durability, probe length and material, the display, and how easy it is to store and clean the product after use.