Digital Thermometers: Reviews

Most experts and reviewers recommend an inexpensive, basic thermometer for families -- a digital unit that can quickly and efficiently take oral, rectal and underarm readings for users of all ages. Experts and users alike… expandpraise the Vicks ComfortFlex thermometer for its accuracy and ease of use. Its flexible tip improves comfort during readings, and its Fever InSight feature clearly clues users in to the presence of a fever. The ComfortFlex also has last-temperature recall and automatic shutoff (after eight minutes), and it outputs readings in about 10 seconds. However, some users have found this thermometer's battery life to be short. While you can spend five times more on a digital thermometer, experts say expensive models aren't any more accurate than basic models. collapse

Rectal thermometers are essential for babies and small children who cannot use oral products. Unlike ear thermometers, whose readouts can be hit-or-miss, rectal thermometers offer extremely accurate results. You could use… expanda standard thermometer like the Vicks ComfortFlex, but many parents opt for a specialized model like the Vicks Baby Rectal Thermometer, which features a shorter probe (to prevent injury) and a more comfortable handle. Both reviewers and users say the Vicks Baby Rectal Thermometer is easy to use, fast and accurate. It also has last-temperature recall and automatically turns off after nine minutes to preserve the battery. collapse

Ear thermometers are another option for kids because they are less invasive. However, experts say that properly placing these thermometers in an individual's ear canal can be tricky -- and incorrect technique can result… expandin a wrong reading. Because of this, most experts aren't strong supporters of these products. Nevertheless, parents who are squeamish about using rectal thermometers like them. In user reviews, the Mobi Digital Ultra Thermometer gets the best support among ear thermometers. This digital thermometer not only takes temperatures from the ear, but also can be scanned across the forehead, giving users a chance to double-check their readings -- a feature many other ear thermometers do not offer. Reviewers also appreciate its other high-tech features, such as a talking audio option, generous memory (it can store up to 20 temperatures), built in mini-flashlight, and calendar and time display. collapse