Braun Thermoscan Ear Thermometer IRT-4520

Bottom Line

Ear thermometers are generally criticized for being difficult to use correctly, but the Braun Thermoscan Ear Thermometer has an indicator light and alert sound to let you know it's in the correct position. This one-second, fast-reading ear thermometer can be used for the whole family, and is used with comfortable probe covers for added hygiene.

Performance

Solid performer among ear thermometers. Experts aren't crazy about ear thermometers in general because right placement can be tricky, which can affect accuracy. However, parents like ear thermometers because they aren't invasive. Users praise the Braun Thermoscan Ear Thermometer for its quick one-second readings, and this model ranks highly on user review sites such as Amazon.com, Drugstore.com and Walmart.com.

In one professional comparison test of 10 digital thermometers, the Braun Thermoscan Ear Thermometer earns good scores for both accuracy and repeatability, and a very good rating for its features, such as its memory function. This thermometer stores the past eight readings in its memory, so parents are able to easily identify trends like a child's rising temperature and take necessary action.

One owner posting a review to Amazon.com says she was convinced after seeing this thermometer being used by medical staff in an emergency room. "Their units are used constantly and if this product can stand up to that type of abuse, I'm sure it will work for us for years to come," she explains. Several owners confirm that they've owned this thermometer and used it regularly for several years without a problem.

The most common complaint about the Braun Thermoscan Ear Thermometer is its inconsistent readings. A few owners say they take three consecutive readings and come up with variations of about three degrees.

Ease of Use

Indicators for correct placement ensure accuracy. The Braun Thermoscan Ear Thermometer runs on two AA batteries, although you won't need to replace them often; reviewers say one set of batteries will last for several years of regular use. The display is large and easy to read, and although it's not backlit, most owners don't seem to mind.

The Braun Thermoscan's flexible tip is designed to fit comfortably for babies, children and adults. The digital thermometer works using plastic covers for the probe (Est. $10 for an 80-pack), which some users find to be a hassle and others find very hygienic. It won't work unless a probe cover is in place, and some users complain that the covers are expensive. A flashing light and beep signal that the tip is placed correctly in the ear, eliminating guesswork and ensuring accuracy.

Parents appreciate the quick readings, especially for young children. Other thermometers can take up to a full minute to produce a reading, which is a long time to make a toddler sit still. If you're looking for a less expensive ear thermometer, we also found good user reviews for the Mobi DualScan 2-in-1 Digital Thermometer 70119 (Est. $20) .