Digital probe grill thermometers are easy to use, and not as costly as you might think. They are small and handheld, with slim metal bars that get inserted into the meat.

I can get along without one if I’m grilling chicken thighs or whatever, but knowing my grill temperature is crucial when I’m smoking those meats (be they pork, turkey, or lamb).

Digital probe grill thermometers are easy to use, and not as costly as you might think. They are small and handheld, with slim metal bars that get inserted into the meat.

Experts say invest in buys that work all year, inside and out, with a couple of exceptions made just for the BBQ ...

We tested dual-channel thermometers, which have two probes: one for taking the internal temperature of the meat, and an air probe for measuring the ambient temperature of an oven, grill, or smoker.

The Wi-Fi-enabled ThermoWorks Signals BBQ Alarm Thermometer helps you cook multiple things at once in the oven, on the grill, or in the smoker.

Dual-probe thermometer great for smoking meatIt's rare when my two passions -- barbecue and technology -- come together, but after years of writing ...

Other gadgets such as the Weber $100 iGrill 2 will turn any brand of grill into one with an app-connected thermometer. And if you prefer charcoal above all, consider the $239 SmartFire.

After testing 11 probe thermometers for this guide, we think the ThermoWorks Dot (center) is the best for most people. Photo: Caroline Enos For this guide, we looked at three types of probe ...