ThermoPop 2 – Kitchen and BBQ Must

Apr 16, 2024 by Chef David

By Chef David – Updated from 2021

Timing is everything, especially in the kitchen. When distractions happen your meat can become dry and tough. Eyeballing food is not the best way to gauge when meat is done. We found that by using a digital thermometer meals come out moist and perfect every time. It eliminates the guesswork, which makes you a better chef.

A digital thermometer can be used for everything from meat to candy making, even for making bread (when the internal temperature reaches about 190 degrees it is done).

What to look for in a Digital Thermometer:

There are a few factors that I considered when selecting a digital thermometer. My initial criteria are the readings, the time it takes (measured in seconds), and the accuracy. Digital thermometers need to produce repeatable results. My second criterion is the ease of use. For a digital thermometer, I look at the display and additional functionality like a backlight. Lastly, the size of the probe matters, one that is too short cannot penetrate a thick cut of meat and a longer probe protects your hands from the heat.

I discovered that the display is the main physical differentiation in digital thermometers. Getting a quick temperate and then being unable to read it defeats the purpose.

Introducing the ThermoPop 2

As the name suggests, ThermoPop resembles a lollypop. It has a long probe and comes with a sheath that protects the probe. ThermoPop has a clip to attach to your pocket which makes it easy to transport. It is light and versatile, with a backlit display that rotates in four directions.

ThermoPop is perfect for the professional chef who keeps their digital thermometer, like a pen, in their side pocket. It is one of the smallest, most compact picks, but it does not skimp on the probe or screen.

Improved Functionality

Since we first tested it in 2021, the ThermoPop has been vastly improved. The speed of readings doubled (from 4 seconds) to 2-3 seconds and the accuracy improved ±1°F. Although similar in appearance to the original ThermoPop the refinements made elevate this kitchen tool to the next level.

Instead of being water resistant, it is now waterproof, with molded-in seals and buttons. Where previously the display changed directions with a push of a button, it now has an auto-rotating 1 ¼-inch backlit display with a larger display with better contrast.

Improvements

Better Readability with a display screen that is 33.33% larger and 20% taller digits.
Motion-Aensing Auto-Rotating Display that automatically rotates (where the original ThermoPop rotated with a push of the button).
Thinner with a 20% thinner profile than the original
Twice as Accurate to ±1°F (0.5°C) while the original is accurate to ±2°F (1°C).
Faster providing temperature readings in 2-3 seconds while the original provided readings in 3-4 seconds.
Fully Waterproof (IP67) a significant design improvement over the original which was splash-proof (IP66).
Automatic Shutoff after 10 minutes of inactivity. The timeout function can be turned on or off.
Probe Options ThermoPop 2 is now available in two probe lengths 4.5 or 8 inches. Note: The 8-inch probe is slightly thicker and has a one-second slower response time.

Our Thoughts

We liked the easier-to-read auto-rotating display, making reading temperatures at any angle seamless. We enjoyed the improved speed and accuracy.

Thermopop 2 is the way to go for most home chefs. It is easy to hold and carry, with a readable bright backlit display and a protective probe sheath. We found the accuracy and convenience of ThermoPop 2 hugely impactful, simplifying temperature control during cooking, which allows you to deliver meals cooked to perfection.

ThermoPop 2 comes in so many color choices and is ideal for the kosher cook, making it easy to distinguish between meat, milk, pareve, and even for Passover.