📝 ThermoPro TP20 Review: Wireless Meat Thermometer
1. Introduction
For any serious home chef, griller, or BBQ enthusiast, there’s nothing more frustrating than undercooked chicken or an overcooked steak. Precision is everything, and that’s where a reliable meat thermometer comes in. The ThermoPro TP20 is a highly-rated wireless dual-probe thermometer designed to take the guesswork out of cooking, giving you the freedom to monitor your food from up to 300 feet away. This device is perfect for anyone who loves low-and-slow smoking, grilling multiple items at once, or simply wants a reliable way to get perfect results every time.
2. First Impressions & Unboxing
The ThermoPro TP20 arrives in a clean, straightforward box that highlights its key features. Inside, the components are well-organized and protected. You’ll find the main wireless receiver, the transmitter unit, two stainless steel probes, and a set of four AAA batteries to get you started immediately. The initial setup is a breeze—simply insert the batteries and plug the probes into the transmitter. The units are pre-synced, so they connect automatically without any complicated Bluetooth or Wi-Fi pairing. It’s a true “plug and play” experience.
3. Key Features
- Dual-Probe Monitoring: The TP20’s standout feature is its two probes. This allows you to monitor the internal temperature of two different cuts of meat at the same time, or to use one probe for the meat and the other as an ambient probe to keep track of the grill or oven temperature.
- Wireless Range: With a claimed remote range of up to 300 feet, the TP20 uses a radio frequency (RF) signal rather than Bluetooth. This generally provides a more stable connection, allowing you to move around your house or backyard without losing the signal.
- Pre-programmed USDA Settings: The receiver comes with pre-set temperatures for various meats (Ground Beef, Poultry, Beef, Veal, Chicken, Pork, Lamb, and Fish) and doneness levels (Rare, Medium Rare, Medium, Medium Well, and Well Done). This is especially helpful for those who are new to grilling or want a quick, reliable reference.
- Backlit Display & Timer: Both the transmitter and receiver feature a large, easy-to-read, backlit LCD screen. The receiver also includes a count-up and count-down timer, which is great for keeping track of your cook time.
- No Syncing Required: Unlike many app-based thermometers, the TP20’s transmitter and receiver are paired out of the box, saving you from a frustrating setup process.
4. Build Quality & Design
The TP20 feels durable and well-built. Both the receiver and transmitter are housed in sturdy plastic with a rubberized, splash-proof casing, making them resilient to the occasional splash or drop. The buttons are large, tactile, and clearly labeled. The probes are made of food-grade stainless steel with a “step-down” tip for easy insertion, and their braided stainless steel wires are long enough for large smokers and can withstand temperatures up to (). The receiver has a fold-out stand for countertop use and a belt clip for portability.
5. Ease of Use
Using the TP20 couldn’t be simpler. You can either select one of the pre-programmed meat settings or manually set your desired target temperature. The buttons for changing settings, switching between Celsius and Fahrenheit, and starting the timer are intuitive. The included manual is clear and concise, but most users can figure out the basic functions without it. Cleaning is also easy—just wipe down the probes and wires with a damp cloth (they are not dishwasher safe).
6. Accuracy & Performance
According to ThermoPro, the TP20 has an accuracy of (). In real-world tests, it consistently provides accurate readings within a few degrees of a known standard. The response time is quick for a wired probe, typically refreshing the temperature reading every 4-5 seconds. The probes are durable and perform well in high-heat environments. As for battery life, the four AAA batteries should last for a significant number of cooks, though this will depend on how frequently and for how long you use the device.
7. Wireless Range Test
While the advertised range is 300 feet, this is in an open, “line of sight” environment. In a typical backyard with a house, walls, or other interference, the real-world range will be shorter. However, the RF signal generally provides a more stable connection than many Bluetooth-only devices. You can confidently monitor your grill from inside the house or while relaxing on your patio without constant connection drops.
8. Pros and Cons
✅ Pros:
- Accurate and fast: Provides reliable temperature readings in a reasonable amount of time.
- Dual probe: Highly convenient for monitoring two meats or one meat and the ambient temperature.
- Long wireless range: The RF signal is generally more stable than Bluetooth, providing a solid connection.
- Easy to use: Plug-and-play functionality with pre-programmed settings and no complex app setup.
❌ Cons:
- Bulky receiver: The receiver is larger than a smartphone, which might be a drawback for some users.
- No smartphone app: Lacks the advanced features and data logging that come with Wi-Fi/Bluetooth app-based thermometers.
- Limited range in reality: The 300-foot range is an ideal-conditions number, and it will be shorter with obstructions.
9. Comparison with Similar Models
The TP20 holds its own against a crowded field. The ThermoPro TP08 is a similar wired thermometer, but the TP20’s probes offer better heat resistance. The MEATER Plus is a popular wireless, app-based option, but it’s significantly more expensive and only has a single probe. The Inkbird IBT-4XS offers four probes and Bluetooth connectivity, but some users have reported issues with its app’s stability. The TP20 stands out as a reliable, no-frills option for those who want a simple, effective wireless thermometer without the complexity of an app.
10. Ideal Use Cases
- Smoking brisket or ribs: Monitor the internal meat temp and the ambient smoker temp for hours without being tethered to your grill.
- Grilling multiple steaks: Get each steak to a perfect medium-rare or medium without guessing.
- Oven-roasting poultry: Keep an eye on your chicken or turkey without constantly opening the oven door and losing heat.
- Monitoring ambient grill temps: Use one probe to double-check the accuracy of your grill’s built-in thermometer.
11. Final Verdict
The ThermoPro TP20 is an excellent choice for anyone who values simplicity and reliability over smart features. It’s an affordable workhorse that delivers on its promises of accuracy and wireless freedom. If you’re looking for a straightforward, dual-probe thermometer that just works right out of the box, the TP20 is a fantastic value.
Overall Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4.5/5)
12. Where to Buy
You can find the ThermoPro TP20 at major online retailers like Amazon and Walmart, as well as on the official ThermoPro website.
Related Post: Other Must-Have Grilling Tools
If you’re upgrading your grilling setup with the ThermoPro TP20, you might be interested in our other recommendations. A great thermometer is just one part of the perfect cook. Check out our in-depth article on the essential gadgets every griller needs, from temperature controllers to high-quality tongs, to help you master your next BBQ.
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External Resources
To help you get the most out of your ThermoPro TP20 and become a master griller, here are some of the most reliable and trusted resources on the web. These links are from highly respected food and grilling authorities and are provided to offer additional context and information.
- Serious Eats
- One of the web’s most trusted sources for science-based cooking advice and gear reviews. Their extensive tests and guides are invaluable for any home cook or pitmaster.
- Learn more about Serious Eats’ approach to cooking and equipment reviews.
- AmazingRibs.com
- Known as “The Guru of Grill,” Meathead Goldwyn’s site is the go-to resource for everything related to grilling and smoking, with a massive database of thermometer reviews and BBQ techniques.
- Explore a detailed comparison of wireless meat thermometers on AmazingRibs.com.
- ThermoPro Official Website
- Sometimes the best resource is the manufacturer itself. The official ThermoPro site provides user manuals, FAQs, and support, which can be helpful for troubleshooting or learning about other models.
- Find the official ThermoPro support and product information.
