It’s time for a roundup! Plenty of models to choose from, which one do you prefer? I own all three and have used them numerous times.
In this test we’re looking at three models:
These models differ quite a bit, so let’s do a quick review.
EDIT: the FireBoard has of this writing (June 2020) been replaced by the new model FireBoard 2. In this video I’m doing a comparison between the old and new model:
| Model | Transmitter technology | App or Receiver | Number of probes | Rechargable |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Thermoworks Smoke | RF | Receiver | 2 | No |
| Weber iGrill 2 | Bluetooth | App | 4 | No |
| Fireboard | RF and Bluetooth | App | 6 | Yes |
Except for the number of probes supported the main difference is transmitter technology. Bluetooth works for short distances, but if the distance is too long (more than 30 feet) or if there are any obstructions (like walls, pillars et.c.) it can be problematic. Whether it is a problem for you depends on your grilling situation. RF is much more reliable. As for the number of probes; think through how many you need. One is always used for measuring air temperature in your grill. A small metal clip comes with all three to attach that probe to the grill grates.
Construction
All three seem to be built to last, but the Smoke model stands out, it is built like a tank. As for the probes; both the Smoke probes and the Fireboard probes seem to be more rugged than the ones that come with the iGrill 2.
Ease of use
All three are easy to use, with intuitive interfaces. They all pair up easily, between main unit and receiver or app. You can set alarms that go off if either one of the temperatures go above or below set thresholds.
Thermoworks Smoke specifics
The Smoke feels really robust. The main unit is easy to understand and use, and I like the magnet and kickstand. The receiver gets the job done, but is just a bit too ‘dumb’ for my preferences. You can’t set an alarm or anything on it, which feels natural. To make any changes you have to get on over to the grill to do that on the main unit. Either way, this one is calibrated and it feels like it will last forever. It doesn’t synchronize to the cloud, Thermoworks has a gateway for sale to get cloud sync, it must be purchased separately. I have purchased it, and although it was a bit tricky to set up, the setup is only done once, and then it’s smooth sailing. Temperatures are monitored in an app in your smartphone/tablet, and the nice thing is that you can monitor temps wherever you have network coverage in your phone.
Weber iGrill 2 specifics
The iGrill 2 has a magnet on the back so it is easy to attach to your grill. It isn’t waterproof, none of the models are, but I have used it many times in the rain or snow without failure. Still, make sure you follow the manufacturer’s advice. I like the four probes, and for the most part Bluetooth works. I’m less happy with the app though. It was great when iDevices manufactured it, now that Weber has purchased it the charting capabilities disappeared, plus other features which I liked.
Fireboard specifics
This thermometer has rugged probes and I really like the 6 probe capacity, even though it comes with just two out of the box (the additional four can be purchased separately). It also provides cloud sync which none of the other models have. This means you can see the temperature sessions online. It connects to your wifi to do this, but works without wifi too. It uses RF and Bluetooth to connect. This seems to be the smarter of the three, if I were to pick a favorite, but also the most expensive one. It’s real simple to use, and everything ‘just works’. They have a weather proof case for it too (purchased separately).
Summary
Picking one isn’t easy, I would say let the probe count and transmitter tech be your guide, that will help you along the way. My favorite is the Fireboard, hands down. A big plus is that it can drive an external fan, for those of you using a controller like the BBQGuru or CyberQ.
Where to buy
Fireboard can be found in their own web shop. If you live in Europe you can get it here. They just released the FireBoard 2. The same goes for Smoke, buy it in their own web shop. Weber iGrill 2 is available here.