Best Tech to Bring to a Cookout

The best tech to bring to a cookout is a wireless meat thermometer with a remote display, like the ThermoPro TP20 or MEATER Plus. It lets you monitor the internal temperature of meat without lifting the grill lid, which keeps heat in and ensures perfectly cooked food every time. This single device solves the most common cookout failure—overcooked or undercooked meat—while freeing you to socialize.

What to Look For

Focus on these criteria when picking cookout tech, in order of importance:

• Wireless range: You should be able to walk across the yard or go inside without losing the signal. Look for at least 100 feet (30 m) of range; 300+ feet is better.
• Water resistance: Grills are outdoors, and splashes, rain, or a dropped probe will happen. IP65 or higher for the receiver, and waterproof probes are ideal.
• Battery life: A cookout lasts 4–6 hours, but you don’t want to recharge mid-cook. Look for at least 12 hours on a charge, or AA batteries you can swap.
• Number of probes: One probe works for a single chicken or roast. Two or more let you monitor different meats or check both meat and ambient grill temperature.
• App vs. dedicated display: Apps give you graphs and alerts on your phone, but a dedicated display is readable in direct sunlight and doesn’t require a phone. Decide which fits your style.
• High-temperature rating: Probes must survive at least 450°F (232°C) for grilling, and 572°F (300°C) if you plan to sear over high heat.
• Setup simplicity: You shouldn’t need a manual to pair the probes. Bluetooth pairing should take under a minute.

MEATER Plus

The MEATER Plus is a Bluetooth meat thermometer with a 165-foot (50 m) range and a 100-hour battery in the probe. It has two sensors in one probe: one for meat, one for ambient temperature. The app walks you through the cook with a target temperature and estimated time remaining, and it’s dead simple to set up.

Strengths: The app is excellent, with clear graphs and notifications. The probe is fully waterproof and can go in the dishwasher. It’s also wireless—no cables to manage.

Trade-offs: You must keep your phone within range, and the app is required; there’s no physical display. The probe is thin, so it’s not ideal for very thick roasts. It also lacks Wi-Fi, so you can’t check from inside the house if your yard is large.

Best for: Cookout hosts who want simplicity and are comfortable using their phone as the display, and who grill within Bluetooth range.

ThermoPro TP20

The ThermoPro TP20 is a classic dual-probe wireless thermometer with a dedicated receiver that has a 300-foot (90 m) range. It comes with two probes, one for meat and one for ambient grill temperature, and the receiver shows both readings simultaneously. It uses AAA batteries, which last for dozens of cooks.

Strengths: The dedicated display is readable in bright sun and doesn’t rely on a phone. The 300-foot range covers most yards and even reaches indoors. It’s reliable, inexpensive, and the probes are rated to 572°F (300°C).

Trade-offs: The receiver is bulky and not waterproof (keep it under a roof). There’s no app, so no graphing or smart notifications—just an alarm when the target is reached. The probes are wired to the transmitter, so you have to manage a cable from the grill to the transmitter.

Best for: Traditionalists who want a no-nonsense, reliable tool with a physical display and long range, without phone dependency.

ThermoPro TP25

The ThermoPro TP25 is a four-probe Bluetooth thermometer with a 500-foot (150 m) range and a built-in receiver. It can monitor four different cuts of meat at once, which is perfect for a large cookout. The receiver shows all four temperatures, and the app adds graphing and alerts.

Strengths: Four probes let you cook a brisket, ribs, chicken, and burgers simultaneously. The 500-foot range is the longest here, covering even large properties. The receiver doubles as a backup display if your phone dies.

Trade-offs: It’s pricier than the TP20, and the app is less polished than MEATER’s. The probes are wired, and the receiver is not waterproof. Setup takes a bit more effort with four probes.

Best for: Serious grillers hosting large gatherings who need to track multiple meats at once.

ThermoWorks Smoke

The ThermoWorks Smoke is a two-probe thermometer with a dedicated receiver and an optional Wi-Fi gateway. It’s known for accuracy (within ±0.75°F) and build quality. The receiver has a 300-foot range, and the gateway lets you check temperatures from anywhere via the ThermoWorks app.

Strengths: Unmatched accuracy and durability; the probes are rated to 572°F and the receiver is weather-resistant. The optional Wi-Fi gateway makes it the only choice here that works from anywhere in the world. It also supports up to six probes with additional receivers.

Trade-offs: It’s the most expensive option, and the Wi-Fi gateway is sold separately. The app is functional but basic. The receiver is a bit clunky.

Best for: Enthusiasts who want professional-grade accuracy and don’t mind paying for it, or who need remote monitoring via Wi-Fi.

Portable Bluetooth Speaker (JBL Flip 6 or Anker Soundcore 2)

A good portable speaker is essential for setting the mood. The JBL Flip 6 is rugged, waterproof (IP67), and has excellent sound for its size. The Anker Soundcore 2 is a budget option that’s also waterproof and offers 24-hour battery life.

Strengths: Both are durable enough for outdoor use, with IP67 ratings. The JBL Flip 6 has a punchy bass and can pair with another for stereo. The Anker is incredibly affordable and lasts longer on a charge.

Trade-offs: The JBL is pricier and has only a 12-hour battery. The Anker’s sound is less refined, and it lacks a speakerphone. Neither can fill a very large yard with sound.

Best for: Anyone who wants background music; choose JBL for sound quality, Anker for value.

Anker PowerCore 10000 Power Bank

A power bank is a small but critical item—your phone will die from photos, music, and the thermometer app. The Anker PowerCore 10000 is compact, charges an iPhone about twice, and has two USB ports. It’s also inexpensive and reliable.

Strengths: Small enough to fit in a pocket, yet powerful enough to top up a phone or two. Anker’s reputation for reliability is solid. It also charges the MEATER Plus or other USB devices.

Trade-offs: It’s not fast-charging (18W max), so it won’t juice a tablet quickly. It doesn’t have a USB-C input for recharging itself if you’re using an iPhone 15 or later.

Best for: A safety net for any cookout; you’ll rarely regret having it.

How to Choose

Start with your budget. If you want to spend under $50, the ThermoPro TP20 is the clear winner—reliable, long-range, and no phone needed. For $50–$100, the MEATER Plus is ideal if you love apps and simplicity, while the TP25 is better for multiple cuts. Above $100, the ThermoWorks Smoke with Wi-Fi is the professional choice.

Consider your grill type. Gas grills have a lid that you can close, making wired probes easy. Charcoal grills have more ambient heat, so look for probes rated to at least 572°F. If you use a smoker, you’ll need a thermometer with a long-range receiver because you’ll be away from it for hours.

Think about your phone dependency. If you hate checking an app, a dedicated display is better. If you love graphs and alerts, an app-based system is worth it. Also, consider your yard size—Bluetooth range is usually 150–500 feet, but walls and interference reduce it. If you want to monitor from inside your house, choose a model with Wi-Fi or a very long Bluetooth range.

Common trade-offs: more probes cost more; app features usually mean a weaker physical display; waterproofing adds bulk. Decide which trade-off you can live with.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a regular meat thermometer instead of a wireless one?

Yes, but you’ll have to open the grill frequently to check, which drops the temperature and slows cooking. A wireless thermometer is a huge convenience and improves results.

Do I need a thermometer for burgers or sausages?

Not strictly, but ground meat must reach 160°F (71°C) for safety. A thermometer takes the guesswork out and prevents dry burgers. It’s worth it for any meat.

What’s the safe internal temperature for grilled meat?

Poultry: 165°F (74°C). Ground meats: 160°F (71°C). Steaks, roasts, and chops: 145°F (63°C) with a 3-minute rest. Fish: 145°F (63°C). Always verify with a thermometer.

Can I leave the thermometer probe in while the meat rests?

Yes, and that’s actually a good practice—you can see the temperature rise during rest. Most probes are rated for continuous high heat, so it’s safe.

Will the Bluetooth signal work through my house walls?

It depends on the walls. Concrete or brick will block it; drywall may reduce range. If you need to monitor from inside, choose a model with a 300+ foot range or Wi-Fi.

How do I clean the probes?

Wipe with a damp cloth after each use. Most probes are waterproof (check the spec), but avoid submerging the plug or transmitter. Never put the whole device in a dishwasher unless it’s explicitly rated.

Bottom Line

For most people, the ThermoPro TP20 is the best all-around pick: it’s affordable, reliable, has a long range, and a dedicated display that works in sunlight. If you prefer app-based cooking with minimal setup, get the MEATER Plus. If you’re hosting a large cookout with multiple meats, the ThermoPro TP25 is worth the extra cost. Pair any of these with a rugged Bluetooth speaker and a small power bank, and you’ll be the best-equipped host on the block.

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