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Laser Thermometers for Cooking: What They Measure

A laser thermometer for cooking is normally an infrared surface thermometer with a visible aiming dot. It can help check a griddle or pizza stone, but not the inside of chicken, steak or a roast.

A laser thermometer for cooking is normally an infrared surface thermometer with a visible aiming dot. It can help check a griddle or pizza stone, but not the inside of chicken, steak or a roast.

Meat thermometers

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Common questions

Questions before you buy

Can a laser thermometer check cooked meat?

It can check the surface only; use a probe for internal doneness.

What does the laser do?

It helps aim the device and does not itself sense heat.

How far away should it be?

Use the distance-to-spot guidance for that model so the measured area stays on the target.

Why can metal give an odd reading?

Shiny surfaces reflect infrared energy and may need an adjusted method or contact probe.