The 4 Best Refrigerator Thermometers [Updated for 2025] - Home Appliance Hero (2025)

In this article, I will discuss our top picks for the best refrigerator thermometer.

After reading, you will be able to make a more informed buying decision.

Here is what you will learn:

• What are refrigerator thermometers?
• How does a fridge thermometer work?
• What to look for in the best thermometer for your fridge?
• The best refrigerator thermometer

Bacteria in your fridge can thrive in the right temperature, which is why a thermometer can be critical!

Our Top Refrigerator Thermometer Picks

1. Rubbermaid Refrigerator Thermometer ( Top Pick)
2. Vouloir Fridge Thermometer (Waterproof)
3. Brifit Refrigerator Thermometer (Best High End)
4. LinkDm Refrigerator and Freezer Thermometer (Cheapest Option)

What Are Refrigerator Thermometers?

A refrigerator thermometer is a small freestanding appliance that measures the temperature of a refrigerator and freezer.

They are usually calibrated from –20°F to 80°F.

Where To Place A Refrigerator Thermometer?

Ideally, a refrigerator’s temperatures should be between 35 and 38 °F. The temperatures in your freezer should be below 0°F.

Obtaining an accurate read depends on where you place the thermometer.

For instance, the back of the fridge is cooler because it is least affected when you open your fridge’s door.

The gasket and shelves, on the other hand, are usually warmer. This is because every time you open your fridge, warmer air enters.

For accurate readability and access, I advise placing your thermometer in the front interior section of your fridge.

The Benefits of a Refrigerator Thermometer

You may be surprised to learn that many modern fridges do not come equipped with a thermometer. Though small, these helpful aids can make your life a lot better.

Some of the benefits:

• Alert you when there’s a power outage (if equipped with an alarm)
• Help you cut energy costs
• Enable you to preserve your food safely

What to Look for in a Refrigerator Thermometer?

Before setting out to buy a refrigerator thermometer, it’s important to know what to look for. Here are some essential features you should consider.

Type

The most common types of fridge thermometers are:

• Dial fridge/freezer thermometer
  • Uses a bimetal sensor to record temperatures. You can hang it or place it by itself in your fridge.
• Vertical and horizontal fridge thermometer
  • Comes with recommended zones for a fridge and freezer. It operates with a spirit-filled glass tube.
• Digital fridge/freezer thermometer
  • Like a digital clock, this type of thermometer features an LCD screen. It is also fitted with an audible alarm.

Material

Refrigerator thermometers are made of different FDA-approved materials, depending on their quality and manufacturer. A plastic one is a great option as it offers great durability.

Stainless steel and glass thermometers are also good. However, as glass is more apt to breaking, make sure to handle with care.

Alarm

Some refrigerator thermometers come with built-in alarms. These will go off when temperatures rise above the desired chilling/freezing temperatures.

If you have problems shutting your fridge door all the way, consider a fridge thermometer with an alarm system.

I have come to appreciate thermometers with alarms as they allow me to transfer my food items to a cooler before they warm up to dangerous temperatures.

Accuracy and Readability

A good thermometer should react quickly when temperatures change. Also, it should have legible calibrations so you can easily read and interpret the readings.

Installation

For an accurate reading, you cannot tack a refrigerator thermometer in between food items. You need a provision to help you attach a thermometer to your refrigerator shelf.

The best way to place a thermometer in your fridge is by using a magnet, a stand, or a hook. You need to get a fridge/freezer thermometer that allows you to place it wherever you want it.

What is the Best Refrigerator Thermometer?

#1 – Rubbermaid Refrigerator Thermometer (Top Pick)

A product of Rubbermaid®, this thermometer is built to last. It helps keep food safe and fresh, thanks to its readability and high accuracy.

It features a shatterproof lens, and a stainless steel build.

This NSF-approved refrigerator thermometer measures 2.5 inches wide by 1.5 inches long by 3.75 inches long, and measures temperature in both Celsius and Fahrenheit.

Pros

• Durable
• Accurate
• Battery-free

Cons

• Fogs easily

#2 – Vouloir Fridge Thermometer (Waterproof)

This is one of the simplest items on this list.

It has three buttons at the back for operation. A °C/ °F button, an on/off power switch, and a clear button. Its body is primarily plastic, with a silver trim around the edges. Additionally, it features a glossy, white casing, a hook at the top, and magnet at the back.

What attracted me to this thermometer is its large LED screen. It makes viewing and taking temperature readings easier.

The battery is lithium-ion.

The temperature reading on the Vouloir Fridge Thermometer ranges between -4°F and 122°F, with an accuracy of ± 1°C.

Pros

• Accurate
• Intuitive design
• Easy to reset

Cons

• Weak magnet

#3 – Brifit Refrigerator Thermometer (Best High End)

This thermometer comes fitted with two wireless sensors. Its large, high-quality display shows two outdoor temperature readings and an indoor reading simultaneously.

You can set the maximum and minimum temperature value on it using the preset buttons provided.

If the temperatures go past the set limits, this thermometer has an audible alarm that will alert you.

An outstanding feature of this thermometer is that it shows historical temperature readings. This makes it easy to monitor temperature changes in your refrigerator.

Other features include a Fahrenheit/Celsius switch, an on/off alarm button, a clamp, a hang hole, a stand, and a magnet.

Pros

• Multiple installation modes
• Strong build
• Easy to read

Cons

• The display turns blurry when batteries are low on charge.

#4 – LinkDm Refrigerator and Freezer Thermometer (Cheapest Option)

This inexpensive refrigerator thermometer boasts of a measuring range of -29°C to 29°C (-20to 80°F).

Its calibrations are well-labeled and color-coded for enhanced readability.

Built from stainless steel, this thermometer guarantees durability with strong rust resistance.

The LinkDm fridge thermometer has a hook at the top and a wide base to allow for easy placement.

For a product of its price, this is a device you can get for your refrigerator, and rest assured you’re getting value for your money.

Pros

• Inexpensive
• Easy to read
• Durable

Cons

• Fogs easily

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Final Thoughts on the Best Thermometer for Your Refrigerator

A refrigerator is, without a doubt, a significant addition to the modern kitchen. With that said, there is always room for help. The refrigerator thermometer improves your appliance’s performance, as it temperatures are outside the recommended limits.

From this article, I hope you now know what to look out for when buying a refrigerator thermometer. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us! Thanks for reading.