Handheld thermometers to suit all temperature requirements. Browse our best-selling handheld thermometer products for all applications, businesses and industries. Get the lowest prices available in the UK and Ireland. Request a free quote today.

Optris Laser Thermometer & Portable Infrared Thermometer

Need a quick and easy method of taking non-contact temperature measurements on the move? Choose from our large selection of non-contact handheld infrared sensors and digital thermal imaging thermometers.

With measuring ranges from -32 to 760°C, optical resolutions of up to 40:1 and functions such as built-in data logging, these handheld thermometers offer excellent value for money.

If you’re not sure which laser thermometer or infrared thermometer gun is suitable for your application, get in touch with our friendly technical team.

Take a look at our infrared sensors, and thermal imaging cameras.

What is a Handheld Thermometer?

A handheld infrared thermometer is a portable, non-contact device that measures temperature remotely using emitted infrared radiation.

Within the unit, the infrared energy is focused onto a detector, converted to temperature, and digitally displayed for the user.

Handheld IR thermometers allow fast, accurate, non-destructive temperature checks from a distance without disturbing the target. Battery-powered for mobility, they contain manual controls and an infrared lens to scan areas and record or monitor temperatures from -30 up to 1600°C depending on the model.

Their lightweight, compact size increases safety and access for analysis and control across residential, commercial and industrial settings.

Applications of Handheld Thermometers

Here are some common applications for handheld thermometers:

  • HVAC – Check air temperature from vents, verify AC unit operation, find hot/cold spots in rooms
  • Food Safety – Test temperature of refrigerators, ovens, grills, foods during cooking/holding
  • Manufacturing and Industrial Use – Monitor process temperatures, inspect product quality, verify equipment operation
  • Science Experiments – Heat chemical reactions, monitor changes in states of matter
  • Health and First Aid – Take human/pet temperatures quickly and comfortably
  • Automotive – Find overheating components indicating problems, check fluid temperatures
  • Heating and Cooling Systems – Locate issues in boilers, heat pumps, radiators causing inefficient operation
  • Agriculture – Monitor livestock and crop health by checking temperatures
  • Outdoor Activities – Measure water, air, ground temperatures for safety and comfort
  • DIY Home Projects – Identify insulation issues with hot and cold spots, drywall moisture levels
  • Research – Thermographic surveys and thermal mapping across industries and applications

Handheld thermometers can be used for a wide range of applications, including measuring body temperature, monitoring food temperature during cooking or storage, checking the temperature of liquids, and measuring the temperature of various objects in industrial and scientific settings.

They are often equipped with features such as adjustable temperature scales, memory functions, and alarms to indicate temperature thresholds.

In the UK, handheld IR thermometers are commonly used in healthcare settings, culinary applications, and general temperature monitoring tasks. They are portable, easy to use, and provide quick and accurate temperature measurements, making them versatile tools for various purposes.

Benefits of Using a Portable Infrared Sensor Over a Temperature Probe

Here are some of the key benefits of using handheld thermometers over temperature probes:

  • Greater versatility and portability – Handheld units can measure temperatures of liquids, soft surfaces, air, and more in various locations.
  • Increased measurement speed – Infrared handheld thermometers provide near-instant readings without contacting the surface.
  • Enhanced convenience and accessibility – Compact handheld designs reach tight spots and awkward angles.
  • Improved safety – No direct contact with hazardous environments or contamination risk.
  • Reduced monitoring interference – Non-invasive infrared thermometers don’t disturb processes.
  • Single device for multiple applications – Unlike single-use probes, one handheld unit takes all readings.
  • Cost-effective – Multi-purpose handheld thermometers eliminate the need for separate probe tools.

Which is the Best Portable Thermometer?

When it comes to finding the best portable infrared thermometer, it largely depends on your specific needs and budget. The Optris P20 LT general-purpose handheld infrared thermometer is suitable for many applications with a wide measurement range of 0 to 1300°C. It allows for precise temperature control in various spots, including refractory linings of melting troughs, as well as in many other places.

Whereas, the Optris MS handheld infrared thermometer is a great value entry-level model with limited functions. It’s a small device used for infrared temperature measurements.

How Accurate is a Handheld Infrared Thermometer?

The accuracy of handheld thermometers varies depending on the type of thermometer and its intended use. In general, infrared thermometers are less accurate than contact thermometers, but they are more convenient to use. Contact thermometers such as digital temperature probes are generally considered to be more accurate, but they require physical contact with the object being measured.

The accuracy of a thermometer can also be affected by factors such as distance from the object, angle of measurement, and ambient temperature. It is important to choose a thermometer that is appropriate for your needs and to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for use to ensure accurate readings.

Handheld Thermometer & Infrared Thermometers

Optris MSPro Handheld Infrared Thermometer

Handheld Thermometer & Infrared Thermometers

Optris MSPlus Handheld Infrared Thermometer

Handheld Thermometer & Infrared Thermometers

Optris MS Handheld Infrared Thermometer