The most accurate thermometer for measuring body temperature: how to choose

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There are several dozen methods and devices for measuring body temperature. The traditional option is a mercury thermometer. But it is losing popularity due to the arrival of more reliable and easy-to-use analogues: infrared, electronic and other formats. And you won’t need to collect mercury when you accidentally break a tool - the main fear of every user. In this article we will look at which thermometer is the best for measuring body temperature, its characteristics and show you a few examples for your reference.

The most accurate thermometer for measuring body temperature – what to choose from

Let's look at several of the most popular models and their advantages and disadvantages.

Mercury thermometer

Pros: A traditional and familiar way to measure temperature. Consists of a glass flask, a notched ruler and a mercury rod. Sometimes the model is called maximum, because it is necessary to reduce the indicator for the next use manually - mercury fixes the level from the previous use.

Disadvantages: One of the most dangerous tools in the house - if the flask breaks, the consequences can be disastrous. Mercury vapor is hazardous to health and the environment.

Galinstan thermometer

Pros: Externally similar to the previous option, if not for one thing - instead of mercury in the flask there is a mixture of liquid metals (tin, galinstan and others). Mixture such liquid metals as indium, tin and gallium - no harm to a person if the device is damaged brings. 

Disadvantages: One of them is that it is difficult to reduce the temperature to its previous state after use. Liquid metals do not move along the rod as well as mercury. Yes, and you need to hold it tightly in the place of measurement, otherwise you will get an incorrect result.

Digital Thermometer

To the question “which thermometer is better for measuring temperature,” we boldly answer – this one. Let's consider the aspects of its use.

Advantages: Looks modern and flawless. The thermometer consists of a measuring element and a display. At the same time, you can get an accurate result after 2-3 minutes of heating with the body, or even earlier. After work, the device gives a sound notification about completion. The measured temperature can be stored in the device's memory until the next procedure.

Disadvantages: It's the only one - price. Yes, the device is more expensive than others, but what is better: buying 5 mercury thermometers or 1 good electronic thermometer, but forever?

Which electronic thermometer is the most accurate - selection criteria

When choosing a thermometer, think about such parameters as: safety, ease of use (most of the time it will be used by a fidgety child) and cost. In the store you will see dozens of thermometers, differing in technical requirements, modifications, and, of course, price.

To choose the most accurate electronic thermometer, ask yourself a few questions:

• what is the range of measured temperature (obviously we do not need devices with 50 degrees or more - they take away our budget and are of no use in everyday life);
• misfire percentage (the lower the error, the better);
• is it possible to place the device inside the measured area (as practice shows, external use shows less accurate results than internal use).

If you yourself find it difficult to decide on the necessary characteristics of the best electronic thermometer, be sure to consult your family doctor. He knows exactly which model will suit you and your children. But not in terms of cost - everything here is calculated on your opinion and budget capabilities.

You have already taken the first step towards choosing an accurate electronic thermometer - then we will present our rating, in which we have collected the highest quality and inexpensive household tools.

Rating of electronic thermometers for measuring body temperature

OMRON Eco Temp Basic (MC-246-RU) – the basic model for every home

The electronic device, as can be immediately seen from the name, has all the basic functionality without additional frills and “highlights” of companies.

The assembly is based on exclusively environmentally friendly materials.The plastic case can withstand small mechanical loads. That is, if a child accidentally drops it on the floor, nothing critical will happen.

The model has all the options for measuring body temperature. The error during the procedure is minimal - only 0.1 degrees. How can a thermometer be used: oral, axillary and rectal. It is powered by batteries that are included in the kit. Everything is packed in a reliable case.

B.Well WT-03 – device with results storage

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As indicated in the name, the thermometer has its own memory to collect information about past procedures. The electronic thermometer is made of durable and moisture-repellent material.

Like the previous model, this option works in 3 environments: rectal, axillary or oral. After the procedure is completed, the thermometer signals with a short sound signal. Data is processed within 0.5–1 second. Measurement time is only 1 minute.

A&D DT-501 – Japanese quality in the field of medicine

Still wondering which electronic thermometer is best to buy? Why, if there is a device from a Japanese manufacturer with excellent characteristics. The company is a leader in the production of equipment in the middle and budget price segments. Like competitors, thermometers measure temperature in 3 areas to get the most accurate result.

The error indicator is 0.1 degrees, which shows its significant “competence” in measurements. As in the previous model, it has a function for storing results. The device is packed in a durable case.

Maman FDTH-V0-3 – fun measuring temperature with a toy

An ideal solution for a child - the bright design amuses the baby from the first seconds, and he is not distracted by other worries.Since the device is designed specifically for the younger generation, there are no questions about the materials - impact-resistant plastic maintains stable safety during the procedure.

Like all devices in the rating of thermometers for measuring body temperature, it has an error of 0.1 degrees and a sound alert. Power supply: one AA battery. A protective box is included.

LAICA MD6082 – the best option in the price-quality format

The rating of electronic thermometers also includes options in the middle price category - the device has sufficient functionality for the home: remembering past processes, sound notification and automatic shutdown if you forget to press the button yourself - after 10 minutes of inactivity the device turns off.

The body is made of durable plastic, additionally coated with a moisture-resistant layer. To obtain information in poorly lit environments, a backlit display was invented. The measuring time is no more than a minute.