Thermopro has long been regarded as a leader in high-quality instant-read meat thermometers. If you’ve researched barbecue or grilling tools, you’ve likely seen ThermoPro products mentioned frequently.
Whether you’re a hobbyist or a seasoned pitmaster, a reliable instant-read thermometer is one of the easiest upgrades you can make to improve your barbecue. When smoking, you want to minimize the time the lid is open. A well-made instant-read thermometer lets you check internal temperatures in just a few seconds, so you can close the pit and preserve heat and smoke.
Both the ThermoPro TP18 and TP19 deliver fast, accurate readings and are easy to use. If you want a dependable instant-read grilling thermometer that consistently gives quick results, the TP18 and TP19 should be at the top of your list.
Table of Contents
- Thermoworks Instant Read Thermometers
- ThermoPro TP18
- ThermoPro TP19
- Final Verdict: Which one should you get?
Thermoworks Instant Read Thermometers
Instant-read thermometers differ from traditional digital or analog probes because they use a thermocouple sensor concentrated at the probe tip. This design produces a faster response time and higher accuracy. With models like the ThermoPro TP18 and TP19, you can often get an accurate temperature reading in under five seconds.
ThermoPro has refined this technology over many years, offering thermocouple-based barbecue thermometers at attractive price points. These thermocouple probes typically handle a wide temperature range and higher maximum temperatures than thermistor-style probes, making them useful for everything from smoking and grilling to candy making and deep frying.
ThermoPro TP18
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The TP18 features a modern, compact design with a folding probe. It uses AAA batteries, includes a lock feature to hold readings, and offers calibration for accuracy. At an affordable price, the TP18 is a practical, durable choice for general kitchen and BBQ use.
What we like
- Uses common AAA batteries.
- Auto-off helps preserve battery life.
- Fast and accurate thermocouple readings.
- Lock feature holds the temperature on-screen after removal.
- Magnetic backing makes storage convenient.
What we don’t like
- Spring-loaded probe release may feel unnecessary to some.
- Display can be difficult to read in bright sunlight.
- Construction feels a bit lightweight compared with heavier-duty models.
How it looks and feels
Out of the box the TP18 has a smooth, rounded profile and a folding stainless-steel probe. The battery compartment is easily accessible and accepts AAA cells. The display is a black digital window with a backlight that works well in low light, though the red digits can wash out in bright sun. A small hook near the base makes it easy to hang from a rack.
Lock feature
The TP18 includes a lock button that freezes the displayed temperature after you take a reading. This is especially helpful when checking meat on a smoker: press lock, close the lid, and you can read the temperature without leaving the pit open or lingering in smoke.
Spring-loaded probe
A spring-loaded button releases the probe from its folded position. The action is smooth, but closing the probe requires making sure it seats fully into its storage slot until it clicks to avoid a loose fit.
Using the TP18
In shaded or low-light scenarios the TP18’s backlight is clear and easy to read. In direct sunlight the red digits are less visible, but in practice the thermometer reads quickly—often stabilizing a temperature reading in just a few seconds. The lock feature speeds up the process of checking meat, letting you close the lid promptly to maintain consistent pit temperature.
Taking a reading with the TP18
When inserted into a pork shoulder or brisket, the TP18 typically delivers an approximate reading almost immediately and a stable read within a few seconds. Use the lock to keep that value displayed while you close the smoker lid, then wipe and fold the probe to power off and store.
ThermoPro TP19
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The TP19 has a more rugged, angular design with a larger display and a motion sensor that automatically powers the unit when moved or opened. It’s water-resistant, built to feel sturdy in hand, and uses AAA batteries with an auto-off feature for battery savings. The TP19 is a great pick if you want a barbecue-focused instant-read thermometer.
What we like
- Water-resistant body and gasketed battery compartment.
- Solid build quality and comfortable grip.
- AAA batteries for easy replacement.
- Auto-off and motion-activated power conserve battery life.
- Large display and fast thermocouple readings.
What we don’t like
- Screw-secured battery cover makes quick battery changes slightly slower.
- Display can be challenging to read in bright, direct sunlight.
How it looks and feels
The TP19 feels substantial and well-made. A flat black display panel contrasts with the colored body, and the screen automatically flips orientation with motion so it’s comfortable for right- or left-handed use. The back includes a battery access panel, a Fahrenheit/Celsius switch, and a handy temperature reference guide.
Motion sensor / no power button
Instead of a dedicated power button, the TP19 uses a motion sensor that turns the unit on when opened or moved. It powers off when the probe is folded away, which reduces the risk of leaving the device on and draining batteries.
Water-resistant design
The TP19’s sealed battery compartment and gasket provide basic water resistance for kitchen splashes and occasional outdoor exposure. The battery cover is secured with a screw and the package typically includes a small screwdriver to help access the compartment.
Using the TP19
The TP19 is simple to operate: open to extend the probe, the unit powers on, insert into the meat, and read the temperature. The display’s large red segmented digits are easy to read in low light, though bright sun can reduce visibility. Readings tend to be fast and accurate, with the initial estimate appearing within a few seconds and a fully stable read shortly after.
Taking a reading with the TP19
When checking a pork butt or brisket, the TP19 provides a quick initial temperature and stabilizes quickly enough for practical pit-side use. After wiping the probe, folding it away will power the thermometer off and protect the probe for storage.
Final Verdict: Which one should you get?
Check Latest ThermoPro TP18 Price
Check Latest ThermoPro TP19 Price
Both the TP18 and TP19 are reliable, thermocouple-based instant-read thermometers that make monitoring cooking temperature fast and accurate. They are well-suited to a wide range of tasks—smoking brisket, roasting turkey, or measuring oil for frying—thanks to wide temperature ranges and durable probes.
If you want a compact, affordable, all-purpose thermometer for kitchen and occasional barbecue use, the TP18 is an excellent choice. Its magnetic backing, lock feature, and folding probe make it versatile for everyday tasks.
If your primary focus is heavy barbecue use and you want a tougher, more ergonomic tool with motion-activated power and water resistance, the TP19 is worth the extra cost. Its larger display and robust build make it ideal for frequent pit time.
Whichever model you choose, both ThermoPro thermometers offer fast response times, food-grade stainless-steel probes, and consistent performance that will help you cook more confidently and achieve more consistent results.