Pyrometers or thermal detectors are general-purpose devices designed to measure temperature without direct contact, at a distance. Built-in infrared sensors are able to determine the degree of heating of almost any material, so pyrometers (non-contact thermometers) are in demand in various professional fields. The best models of pyrometers are characterized by a wide range of additional options, the accuracy of the displayed data and ease of use. Our experts analyzed customer reviews and technical parameters of popular devices and made a TOP-10 rating of the most worthy and reliable representatives in their class.
Rating of the best pyrometers
The review of the best includes appliances of household and professional class, different in capabilities and layout. When compiling the rating, our editorial staff evaluated:
- data accuracy;
- ergonomics;
- additional features;
- quality and reliability.
Particular attention is paid to the selection of manufacturers. The rating included models of thermal detectors from reliable, time-tested brands.
Sometimes in stores there are seemingly the same thermal detectors. To understand which is better, you need to carefully study the characteristics and additional functions, since their characteristics can vary greatly. It is these indicators that affect the cost of devices.
1. FLUKE 566
Combined professional pyrometer with a resolution of 30: 1, has excellent performance and the ability to measure in two ways. Contact, using a standard type K thermometer, connected via a mini-connector and contactless. With infrared measurement, the reaction rate is less than 1 s, and the total temperature range is from -40 to +650.
Unlike conventional pyrometers, the FLUK 566 is designed for use in harsh industrial environments and in the housing and utilities sector. Therefore, the manufacturer has equipped the device with a solid case, reliable electronics, resistant to negative factors, memory for 20 values. And also provided for the ability to control the performance of indicators outside the established limits, which significantly speeds up work processes.
Advantages:
- high accuracy of measurements at a great distance;
- reliable electronics;
- memory for 20 values;
- control of the set parameters;
- light and sound signaling device.
Disadvantages:
- high price.
2. CEM DT-9860
The technical parameters of the device corresponding to the professional class indicate that this is one of the best pyrometers. However, its main feature is the presence of a built-in camera for video and photography, which allows linking the obtained measurements to images. The storage medium is a microSD memory card with a capacity of up to 8GB.
For the best accuracy, in addition to optical expansion 50: 1, the device is equipped with a duplicate laser pointer, this solution makes it possible to fix the target at a considerable distance. Also, the infrared temperature meter has a full set of functions for recording AutoHold, MaxHold, DataHold results and the highest in the class maximum limit of 1000 degrees Celsius.
Advantages:
- low price for its class;
- wide functionality;
- measurement range from -50 to 1000 degrees;
- there is an input for a type K thermocouple;
- suitable for determining air humidity.
Disadvantages:
- batteries are quickly depleted.
3. BOSCH GIS 1000 C (0601083300)
Despite its many settings and functions, the GIS 1000 C infrared non-contact thermometer is intuitive to operate. But the main highlight of the device is in its "stuffing", thanks to which the pyrometer is able not only to take measurements, but also to record them with reference to a photo. To transfer data, the manufacturer has implemented the ability to transfer them to a smartphone via Bluetooth or via a USB 2.0 socket.
However, the long list of options does not end there - in addition, the pyrometer camera is equipped with a 3x zoom (approximation), the device itself has a double laser pointer. As a power source, you can use not only a battery; for the convenience of users, there is even an adapter for AA batteries in the kit with the tool.
Advantages:
- bright LCD monitor;
- wide measurement range from - 40 to 1000 С;
- high quality workmanship;
- functionality;
- intuitive interface;
- there is a backlight;
- AA battery adapter and L-Boxx insert included.
Disadvantages:
- high price;
- large dimensions.
4.RGK PL-12
One of the leaders in the mid-range price category, the RGK PL-12 laser sight temperature meter is ideal for domestic and professional indoor work. With its help, it is easy to detect heat leaks, control the operation of electrical equipment, and take readings from the surface of liquids. The pyrometer clearly indicates the size of the working area due to the use of two beams at once and is able to carry out not only one-time, but also continuous measurements. A built-in buzzer alerts the operator when limits are exceeded, greatly simplifying work.
As follows from the reviews, this budget pyrometer with chic functionality easily copes with measurements at positive ambient temperatures. However, with a "minus", significant deviations occur, which limits the possibilities of its use.
Advantages:
- a large number of functions;
- expansion 12: 1;
- Ease of controls;
- ease of transportation and storage;
- two laser pointers;
- combination of price and opportunity;
- sound indicator.
Disadvantages:
- large error at low temperatures.
5. FLUKE 59 MAX
A simple but reliable pyrometer is designed to measure the temperature of different surfaces only in a non-contact way. With modest technical characteristics, the manufacturer focused on the quality and economy of the device. One AA battery charge is enough for 12 hours of continuous operation. In addition, the lack of additional functions made the device very compact and lightweight.
Of the minuses of the pyrometer, users note the undeveloped service network of the brand and the uninformativeness of the attached instructions, as a result of which they have to master the control on their own.
Advantages:
- compact size and light weight;
- profitability;
- durable plastic case;
- clear LCD display.
Disadvantages:
- few service centers;
- modest measurement range from -30 to 350 degrees.
6.CEM DT-812
The inexpensive model of the pyrometer of the Chinese brand CEM is designed for long-term operation in conditions that do not require high measurement accuracy. The simplicity of the device allows even an inexperienced operator to use it without special knowledge. The quality of the pyrometer, despite its low cost, did not suffer. The body is made of good plastic, the electronic filling works flawlessly.
The disadvantages of the pyrometer are inherent in most analogs from the lower price category, it is a significant error, sensitivity to low temperatures.
Advantages:
- low price;
- ergonomics;
- automatic data saving function is supported;
- excellent combination of price and quality;
- light weight;
- Ease of controls.
Disadvantages:
- large error at low temperatures.
7. ADA instruments TemPro 300
The pistol pyrometer is extremely compact and easy to use. Quite good optical resolution allows you to accurately determine the temperature at a distance of more than 1 m. The measurement range is: from -32 to +350 degrees Celsius. Based on reviews and technical parameters, the pyrometer is great for home use, housing and communal services, for servicing engines and various mechanisms, in the power industry.
Advantages:
- comfortable design;
- excellent build quality;
- the presence of a laser pointer and backlight;
- determines the temperature with an accuracy of +/- 1.5 degrees;
- auto power off to save energy.
Disadvantages:
- does not measure Faringate temperature.
8. INSTRUMAX pIRo-330
The compact and ergonomic infrared temperature meter will cope with any household tasks: from measuring body or water temperature to heating surfaces located in sterile, hazardous environments, as well as energized objects. The temperature range is from -50 to + 330 degrees, which is sufficient for domestic use. Moreover, the device is designed for high-quality operation at high external temperatures - up to +50 Celsius. For efficiency, all the main options are provided - a laser guide, Hold (freezing of readings), automatic selection of the measurement range, good screen illumination.
Advantages:
- acceptable error rate - up to 1.5%;
- wide temperature range for a household model;
- convenient location of buttons;
- indication of exceeding the permissible measurement limits;
- stable accuracy when measuring different surfaces (mirror, rough, reflective, etc.).
Objective flaws were not identified by users.
9. Megeon 16280
A popular household pyrometer with a laser sight, an acceptable measurement range, neatly fits into a very compact case. The optical resolution is average - 8: 1, however, this is enough for household work, foundation pouring and private construction. The functional pyrometer has shown itself well in practice - measurement accuracy, user-friendly backlit LCD display, ease of use.
With all the advantages, the reduction in price entailed negative consequences - on surfaces with reflection, the thermometer distorts the results.
Advantages:
- good display backlight;
- low cost;
- small dimensions and weight;
- small error.
Disadvantages:
- inaccuracy of measurements at negative air temperatures;
- not recommended for measuring specular and reflective surfaces.
10. ELITECH P 350
Model P 350 made in China is the optimal combination of affordable price and good quality. An inexpensive, but high-quality pyrometer quite accurately determines the temperature in Celsius or Fahrenheit, the data error is minimal and does not exceed 1.5%. According to users, the pyrometer is distinguished not only by its fast response and solid manufacturing, but also by its impeccable stability. A wide measurement range allows the pyrometer to be used in many areas, including as a budget alternative to a thermal imager for finding heat leaks.
Advantages:
- the ability to fix readings;
- quality measurement at a distance;
- laser pointer;
- a continuous scanning mechanism is provided;
- auto shutdown.
Disadvantages:
- the instructions are difficult to understand.
How to choose the right thermal detector
When choosing a pyrometer that meets expectations, the following criteria should be followed:
- Temperature Range. For home use, an inexpensive infrared pyrometer with a range from -50 to + 500 degrees is suitable. This is enough to determine the temperature of the car engine, the degree of heating of water, oven, meat, utensils for cooking. In an industrial environment, when measuring the heating of metals, production equipment and others, a device with greater capabilities may be required, but such devices are more expensive.
- Optical resolution.The indicator determines at what distance you can take measurements. Devices with a value of up to 10: 1 measure temperatures up to 1 m, a ratio of up to 30: 1 accurately reflects heating at a distance of up to 3 m. Models with a resolution of more than 50: 1 and higher can measure temperature at a greater distance.
- When there are many measurements to be taken, a pyrometer is needed that can store readings. Models with photo and video measurements are also great.
- Response time. If you want to measure surfaces that change rapidly, you need an instrument with the fastest response time. For example, when working with electrical wiring, an indicator of 1 s is not enough, it is better to choose a fast thermal detector that can scan in 0.5 s. Expensive professional modifications have the lowest indicator - about 0.15 s.
- Determination of moisture level. The function is found in professional devices and allows you to measure air humidity. This option is necessary to monitor the indoor climate, to determine the likelihood of condensation and mold formation.
There is another important indicator - the emission factor. For household models, it is 0.95, such devices are suitable for measuring materials with a matte finish - rubber, plastic, concrete or brick. Glossy surfaces have a lower ratio; to work with such materials, a model with an adjustable index is needed.
The K-type thermocouple (optional) allows for contact measurements, and the dual laser beam allows for more accurate location of measurements.
Which pyrometer is better to buy
It is optimal to choose a model of a temperature detector that provides the required characteristics with a small excess. Experienced craftsmen also take into account the class: household for home and small measurements, professional - for work in production. At the same time, you need to pay attention to the trademark - reliable companies will provide service.
The correct choice of a good pyrometer is a selection of the capabilities of the device and its additional functions. For example, it is not recommended to take pyrometers with an optical resolution of 10: 1 for taking measurements at a distance of more than 3 m, or with an insufficient temperature range. As the review of the best thermal detectors shows, there are excellent quality models at affordable prices in every class - from simple to multifunctional.
