When I started out years ago smoking meat “low and slow”, I found myself up late or up very early, constantly checking meat temperatures and BBQ pit temps. I bought the Maverick ET732 wireless thermometer (which has since been replaced by newer models), and it was a total game-changer! These wireless thermometers let you monitor your BBQ pit temperature and temperature of the meat, and set alarms if the temp gets too high or too low. I was able to run long, slow cooks for hours and still sleep, waking up only to move the meat to the next phase in my cooking process.
The ET732 has been my trusty companion for years, but there are also newer models that have more than two channels. For example, the ENZOO Wireless Meat thermometer has 4 different probes, so you can monitor pit temp, brisket, ribs, and pork shoulder all at once!
There are also WiFi and Bluetooth enabled thermometers that sync with your phone, but from what I’ve researched, the feedback is that the mobile apps that accompany these types of wireless thermometers are typically pretty limited or of poor quality. So, for now, I’ve chosen to stick with the traditional, stand-alone receiver setup like the ones mentioned above. These are also cheaper than the WiFi/Bluetooth connected models.
Regardless of the model of wireless BBQ thermometer you choose, make sure to wrap the probe lines in aluminum foil to help protect against excessive heat, as prolonged heat exposure can eventually fuse the internal lines and cause your probe to stop working. And, never place the probes over direct heat.
Wireless BBQ thermometers are an indispensable accessory for the serious pit master running “low and slow” cooks. Good BBQ takes time, and nothing beats being able to get a good night’s sleep or chill inside on the couch while keeping an eye on your cook without having to go out and check on things, because, as all BBQ pros will tell you, “If you’re lookin’ you aint cookin’!”
