Verdict
All guidesMethodologyAboutContact
Head-to-head · Best Meat Thermometers

ThermoPro TP20 500FT Wireless Meat Thermometer vs ThermoWorks RFX

Which is the better buy? Side-by-side on rating, price, strengths, and watch-outs — with the published ratings we averaged to get there.

The short answer

ThermoPro TP20 500FT Wireless Meat Thermometer comes out ahead by a narrow margin (4.7 vs 4.5). The gap is mostly about budget-conscious home cooks seeking reliable monitoring — read the strengths below before deciding.

ThermoPro TP20 500FT Wireless Meat Thermometer
Higher ratedRanked #3 in Best Meat Thermometers
ThermoPro TP20 500FT Wireless Meat Thermometer
$45

The ThermoPro TP20 Wireless Meat Thermometer earned top marks as a budget-friendly option in Serious Eats' testing of 20 models. Reviewers praised its accuracy, fast response time, and impressive 500-foot range enabled by radio frequency communication. The device features two probes, a backlit display, and simple operation without requiring a phone app. The Spruce Eats reviewer noted its reliable performance with boiling water tests and convenient alarm system that works even if connection is lost. This thermometer is ideal for home cooks seeking dependable meat temperature monitoring but may not suit users wanting probe labeling or control locks.

Strengths
  • — Accurate readings within six to seven seconds
  • — 500-foot wireless range using radio frequency
  • — Easy to operate with large, clearly labeled buttons
Watch-outs
  • — Probes aren't physically labeled
  • — No button/control lock feature
$45 · Check Price on AmazonFull review →
ThermoWorks RFX
Ranked #2 in Best Meat Thermometers
ThermoWorks RFX
$299

The ThermoWorks RFX Wireless Meat Probe Thermometer offers a significant upgrade over Bluetooth competitors like Meater with its stable WiFi connection and extended range. Reviewers praised its accuracy, ease of setup, and ability to track temperatures up to 1,000°F. Serious Eats reviewer Grace Kelly found it reliable for smoking and roasting, while Vindulge's Sean Martin highlighted its extensive range and precision. However, both reviewers noted the app's navigation issues and slower probe response times compared to instant-read thermometers. This thermometer is ideal for serious grillers and smokers who need reliable long-range monitoring but may not suit those prioritizing app ease-of-use or ultra-fast response times.

Strengths
  • — Impressive signal range with stable WiFi connection that doesn't drop during cooking
  • — Accurate temperature readings confirmed through ice bath and sous vide tests
  • — Easy setup process requiring only WiFi connection and tapping probe to Gateway
Watch-outs
  • — App navigation can be difficult despite being mostly intuitive
  • — Probe registration is slower than instant-read thermometers, taking about 22 seconds to reach 135°F from room temperature
$299 · Check Price on AmazonFull review →

How they stack up

ThermoPro TP20 500FT Wireless Meat Thermometer

The ThermoPro TP20 offers the most affordable option with a 500-foot range and simple operation, but it lacks the advanced features of the ThermoWorks RFX and MEATER Pro. While it matches the ThermoPop 2 in accuracy and read time, it's more expensive and doesn't offer the auto-rotating display or waterproofing of the ThermoWorks models. Compared to the Lavatools Javelin Pro Duo, it's less feature-rich but more straightforward to use without requiring a smartphone app.

ThermoWorks RFX

The ThermoWorks RFX excels in wireless monitoring with its stable WiFi connection and 500-foot range, surpassing the ThermoPro TP20's radio frequency and MEATER Pro's Bluetooth range. However, it's slower to respond than the instant-read thermometers like the Thermapen One and ThermoPop 2, taking about 22 seconds to reach 135°F. While the MEATER Pro offers better temperature resistance, the RFX provides a more stable connection and easier setup process, making it ideal for long cooking sessions where reliability is key.

Specs side-by-side

SpecThermoPro TP20 500FT Wireless Meat ThermometerThermoWorks RFX
Temperature Range14°F to 572°FUp to 1,000°F
Accuracy±1.8°F±0.9°F (±0.5°C) between 14°F and 212°F
Response Time5-7 secondsabout 22 seconds to climb to 135°F from room temp
DisplayBacklit LCDNo display (view via app)
WaterproofNot waterproof (splash proof housing)IP69K, dishwasher-safe and submersible
Probe Length8 inches4.69 inches
ConnectivityRF (Radio Frequency)WiFi
Battery Life—Up to 60 hours with 20-minute charge
← See the full ranking of best meat thermometers