Omron Digital Thermometer MC246

Bottom Line

The Omron Digital Thermometer MC246 is a simple, easy-to-use basic digital thermometer designed for oral, rectal or underarm use. Its affordable price appeals to owners, as well as its multifunctionality, which includes both Celsius and Fahrenheit modes. It takes about 60 to 80 seconds to produce a reading, however. The Vicks Baby Thermometer V934 (Est. $20) is better suited for small children, producing rectal temperature readings -- the most highly recommended type of reading for accuracy -- in about 10 seconds.

Performance

Accurate, basic digital performer. Both professional and owner-written reviews indicate that the Omron Digital Thermometer MC246 provides accurate readings. It does take about 60 to 80 seconds to record a temperature, however, so users say it's not ideal for use with young children who have a difficult time sitting still for that long. This thermometer is recommended by two separate consumer testing organizations and earns positive feedback from owners.

The Omron Digital Thermometer MC246 doesn't have a flexible tip, although owners posting feedback to FlipKart.com don't seem to mind. Most reviewers at this site say it is accurate when compared with hospital readings and other temperature-reading devices. This thermometer is not widely available in the U.S., so there is limited consumer feedback available.

Ease of Use

Long reading time. The Omron Digital Thermometer MC246 is a versatile digital thermometer, providing readings in either Celsius or Fahrenheit. It alerts users that the reading is complete with an audible beep. The major downside noted by users is that it takes about 60 seconds to produce a measurement, which can be a problem for young children who have difficulty sitting still for that long. There are several owners who say that it actually takes about 80 to 90 seconds to produce a reading.

The Omron Digital Thermometer MC246 has a memory function that displays the last recorded reading when the unit is powered on. The LCD display isn't backlit, but it is easy to read, users say. The thermometer also has an auto-shutoff feature to preserve battery life and is water resistant, so it can be cleaned easily between uses.