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  4. 10 Best Sugar Thermometers UK 2024 | Salter, Tala and More
  • 10 Best Sugar Thermometers UK 2024 | Salter, Tala and More 1
  • 10 Best Sugar Thermometers UK 2024 | Salter, Tala and More 2
  • 10 Best Sugar Thermometers UK 2024 | Salter, Tala and More 3
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  • 10 Best Sugar Thermometers UK 2024 | Salter, Tala and More 5

10 Best Sugar Thermometers UK 2024 | Salter, Tala and More

For sugar recipes such as caramel and jam, you will require a higher temperature than with standard cooking. So, to help you bake to perfection, you'll need a sugar thermometer that's up to the task. As there are a lot of features you'll need to look out for, we've broken down the key considerations in this article to help you in your search. 


We'll explain the differences between analogue, dial and digital scales, and whether you'll be better off with a handheld or clip-on model - including the differences between Celcius and Fahrenheit scales, and where each will come in useful. If you're still unsure which to go for, take a look at the 10 best sugar thermometers in the UK, currently available through Amazon. 

Last updated 21/03/2024
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Table of Contents

How to Choose Sugar Thermometers in the UK

Key Points to Consider
  1. Choose a Digital Display for Accurate Readings or Analogue for a More Traditional Look
  2. Metal Thermometers Are Versatile, Glass Is More Affordable
  3. Choose Handheld or Clip-on Thermometer Depending on Your Recipe’s Requirements
  4. Check the Thermometer Covers a Minimum of 40 - 200 °C
1

Choose a Digital Display for Accurate Readings or Analogue for a More Traditional Look

Choose a Digital Display for Accurate Readings or Analogue for a More Traditional Look

There are three types of display available on sugar thermometers, and your choice of analogue, dial or digital will depend on your preference. To help you choose the right option for you, we've listed the key features of each type below:


  • Analogue: This display features a vertical temperature scale marked along a thin tube. The temperature is indicated by a red chemical substance inside the tube, which rises when heated at the base. This means it will not need batteries to operate. However, since the temperature scale is relatively small, it won't be a 100% accurate reading. 

  • Dial: These tend to have metal probes attached to a circular head, which displays the temperature. The dial on the head is easier and safer to read than analogue thermometers because of the positioning above the pot as opposed to inside it. Even so, the dial is still dependent on a visual reading, so can be slightly inaccurate. 

  • Digital: The most modern variety, digital thermometers feature an LCD screen which will display the exact temperature. For accuracy, these are preferred to any other display, but they will require batteries which you may occasionally need to replace.


Measure out your ingredients accurately on our Best Kitchen Scales!

2

Consider the Material: Metal Thermometers Are Versatile, Glass Is More Affordable

Consider the Material: Metal Thermometers Are Versatile, Glass Is More Affordable
Sugar thermometers are either constructed of glass or metal, so choosing the right material will be a large factor in your final decision. Take a look through the features of each to help inform your choice. 

  • Metal: Metals such as stainless steel and brass are great for use in both solids and liquids since the probe is sharp and sturdy. This means you can use the same thermometer for caramel, preserves, and even meat. Just bear in mind that metal probes tend to be attached to a digital or dial display. 

  • Glass: Analogue thermometers are more commonly made of glass since they rely on the chemical within the tube to be visible through the body of the thermometer. It's a cheaper material, so a great option if you're on a budget. However, they are less versatile and more prone to break.


Sweeten up your recipes with the Best Baking Chocolate!

3

Use a Handheld Thermometer for Quick Temperature Checks, or Clip-on Model for Constant Monitoring

Use a Handheld Thermometer for Quick Temperature Checks, or Clip-on Model for Constant Monitoring

You'll also need to consider how long you will need to monitor your food's temperature for. This will help you to determine whether you will need a handheld or clip-on model. If your recipes tend to need constant monitoring and gradual temperature changes, a clip-on thermometer will serve you best. Just position it inside the pot with the attached clip and you'll be able to keep an eye on the readings completely hands-free!


For quick temperature checks, handheld models are the preferred option. Since sugar work commonly requires constant stirring, handheld thermometers are more convenient in that they don't cause obstructions or take up space inside the pot when not in use. 

4

Check the Temperature Range and Whether It’s Measured in Celsius or Fahrenheit

Check the Temperature Range and Whether It’s Measured in Celsius or Fahrenheit

Since sugar recipes often require very high temperates, the temperature range on your chosen thermometer is essential! A standard sugar thermometer measures between 40 - 200 °C, as this is the most common temperature range for most recipes. If you're after something that's more versatile, opt for a thermometer that starts at 0 °C and ranges all the way up to 250 - 300 °C. 


It's also important to note the temperature units that are used. UK recipe books depict temperature in Celsius, marked °C, but some thermometers on the market will also feature a Fahrenheit scale, marked as °F. This is useful if you tend to get your recipes online, as it will save you the hassle of converting every temperature manually. 


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10 Best Sugar Thermometers in the UK

This ranking has been compiled by the writing team at mybest UK via careful evaluation of the points made in the buying guide and thorough research of each product and comparing multiple verified customer reviews across the EC sites used.
Popularity
Products
Image
Click to purchase
Price
Key features
1

ThermoPro

TP02S Digital Thermometer

ThermoPro TP02S Digital Thermometer 1

£8.99

Mid

Stainless Steel Probe Designed for Baking, Barbecue and Candy

2

Thermometer World

Sugar Thermometer for Making Jam

Thermometer World Sugar Thermometer for Making Jam 1

£8.25

Mid

A Wide-Scale Dial From 0 - 300°C With Fahrenheit Conversion

3

KitchenCraft

KitchenCraft Sugar / Jam Thermometer Spoon

KitchenCraft KitchenCraft Sugar / Jam Thermometer Spoon 1

£15.60

High Mid

Digital LCD Display Embedded in a Silicone Spoon

4

Salter

Probe Stainless Steel Digital Kitchen Thermometer

Salter Probe Stainless Steel Digital Kitchen Thermometer 1

£19.99

High Mid

A Stainless Steel Probe Providing Accurate Digital Readings as Low as -20°C

5

Tala

Stainless Steel Jam & Confectionery Thermometer

Tala Stainless Steel Jam & Confectionery Thermometer 1

£7.00

Low Mid

Classic Analogue Scale in Both Celsius and Fahrenheit

6

KitchenCraft

Jam / Sugar Thermometer

KitchenCraft Jam / Sugar Thermometer 1

£5.49

Low Mid

Traditional Handheld Glass Thermometer With Optional Clip

7

CDN

Digital Candy Thermometer

CDN Digital Candy Thermometer 1

£29.99

High

Digital Scale That Notifies You When the Desired Temperature Is Reached

8

ETI

Brass Sugar & Jam Thermometer

ETI Brass Sugar & Jam Thermometer 1

£11.99

Mid

Brass Thermometer With Indicators for Common Recipes Like Caramel and Jam

9

Chef Aid

Traditional Design Confectionary Thermometer

Chef Aid  Traditional Design Confectionary Thermometer 1

£3.79

Low

A Low-Budget Glass Thermometer for Quick Temperature Checks

10

CDN

Candy Deep Fry Thermometer

CDN Candy Deep Fry Thermometer 1

£11.42

Mid

100 - 400°F Clip-on Dial That Won’t Be Too Obstructive

If you don't see the product you're looking for, you can request that it be listed.
No.1

ThermoProTP02S Digital Thermometer

TP02S Digital Thermometer 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£8.99
Mid
Reference price
£8.99
Mid

Stainless Steel Probe Designed for Baking, Barbecue and Candy

With a temperature range from -50 to 300°C, this is the most versatile thermometer on the list. In fact, it can be used for practically anything, from day-to-day cooking to jam and caramel. 

For absent-minded bakers, the auto-shutoff feature will power down the device after 10 minutes to help save the battery. When in use, however, temperatures will be displayed within 5 seconds with a temperature accuracy within 0.5°C!

Was this Ranking helpful?
No.2

Thermometer WorldSugar Thermometer for Making Jam

Sugar Thermometer for Making Jam 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£8.25
Mid
Reference price
£8.25
Mid

A Wide-Scale Dial From 0 - 300°C With Fahrenheit Conversion

The 50-millimetre dial display on this thermometer is clear and easy to read thanks to the minimalist design. To save you time working out conversions, it features both Celsius and Fahrenheit measurements, ranging from 0 to 300°C.

Thanks to the large scale and stainless steel probe, it's perfect for all manner of recipes. Plus, you can clip it onto the pot for easy hands-free temperature monitoring. 

No.3

KitchenCraftKitchenCraft Sugar / Jam Thermometer Spoon

KitchenCraft Sugar / Jam Thermometer Spoon 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£15.60
High Mid
Reference price
£15.60
High Mid

Digital LCD Display Embedded in a Silicone Spoon

If you're prone to multitasking in the kitchen, this silicone spoon with an embedded digital thermometer might be just what you're looking for! The LCD display can measure between 20 - 220°C, with a button to toggle between Celsius and Fahrenheit.

The heatproof silicone will protect your hands from burns as it doesn't conduct heat like metal and glass does. Plus, once you're done, cleanup will be a breeze thanks to the dishwasher safe material.

No.4

SalterProbe Stainless Steel Digital Kitchen Thermometer

Probe Stainless Steel Digital Kitchen Thermometer 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£19.99
High Mid
Reference price
£19.99
High Mid

A Stainless Steel Probe Providing Accurate Digital Readings as Low as -20°C

Salter is one of the leading homeware brands in the UK, and for good reason. This thermometer utilises a stainless steel probe and digital LCD display, to measure temperatures between -20 and 250°C.

It's recommended to be used for handheld checks. However, the 90° probe handle means it can also be used as a leave-in thermometer if hung on the edge of the pot, causing minimal obstruction to your range of movement. 

No.5

TalaStainless Steel Jam & Confectionery Thermometer

Stainless Steel Jam & Confectionery Thermometer 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£7.00
Low Mid
Reference price
£7.00
Low Mid

Classic Analogue Scale in Both Celsius and Fahrenheit

Another instantly recognisable brand among avid bakers, Tala's stainless steel analogue thermometer is a staple choice if you prefer to stick to traditional-style cookware.

The scale is marked in both Celsius and Fahrenheit, so online recipes will be made easier without the need for temperature conversion. Better yet, you can store it within arm's reach when not in use as the plastic heatproof handle doubles as a storage hook.

No.6

KitchenCraftJam / Sugar Thermometer

Jam / Sugar Thermometer 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£5.49
Low Mid
Reference price
£5.49
Low Mid

Traditional Handheld Glass Thermometer With Optional Clip

If your recipes call for an equal amount of quick temperature checks and ongoing monitoring, you might be unsure of whether to opt for a handheld or clip-on thermometer. Luckily, this one can be used in either capacity, making it ideal for a range of recipes. 

The protective cover will prevent accidental damage, and features a cheat sheet of ideal temperatures for jam, confectionery and deep-frying. The only drawback is that the 0 - 205°C temperature scale won't be as easy to read as digital or dial displays.

No.7

CDNDigital Candy Thermometer

Digital Candy Thermometer 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£29.99
High
Reference price
£29.99
High

Digital Scale That Notifies You When the Desired Temperature Is Reached

This digital thermometer provides accurate readings between -40 - 232°C, with an option for Fahrenheit conversion. For busy kitchens, and forgetful cooks, it can even be programmed to alert you when the pot reaches the necessary temperature. 

It's the most expensive product on our list, so won't be ideal if you're shopping on a budget. However, the 5-year warranty may make the investment worth it when compared with cheaper models which are more likely to break.

No.8

ETIBrass Sugar & Jam Thermometer

Brass Sugar & Jam Thermometer 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£11.99
Mid
Reference price
£11.99
Mid

Brass Thermometer With Indicators for Common Recipes Like Caramel and Jam

To save you constantly referring back you your recipes, this analogue scale is clearly marked for caramel, crack, hardball, softball and jam recipes. Alongside a 40 - 200°C temperature range, the brass finish and large handle give it an antique style that will look great hanging on storage hooks when not in use. 

It's a little more expensive than other analogue scales with similar features, but if you're shopping for something with a unique design, this thermometer brings style as well as substance.

No.9

Chef Aid Traditional Design Confectionary Thermometer

Traditional Design Confectionary Thermometer 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£3.79
Low
Reference price
£3.79
Low

A Low-Budget Glass Thermometer for Quick Temperature Checks

This thermometer is one of the cheapest on the market. Far from lacking in quality, it will cover all your basic recipe requirements from 0 - 200°C, so it's a no-brainer if you're shopping on a budget. 

Compared to other designs, however, this scale can be a little more difficult to read. Therefore, it's best avoided if you have a visual impairment, or your recipes require 100% accurate readings.

No.10

CDNCandy Deep Fry Thermometer

Candy Deep Fry Thermometer 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£11.42
Mid
Reference price
£11.42
Mid

100 - 400°F Clip-on Dial That Won’t Be Too Obstructive

This 45-millimetre dial display strikes the perfect balance between readable and discreet. It's large enough to easily display accurate readings, but won't be too obstructive when you need access to the pot. 

Unfortunately, the display is only marked in Fahrenheit. So, you may need to convert the temperatures in some recipes in order to read them correctly on this thermometer. 

Top 5 Sugar Thermometers

No. 1: ThermoProTP02S Digital Thermometer

No. 2: Thermometer WorldSugar Thermometer for Making Jam

No. 3: KitchenCraftKitchenCraft Sugar / Jam Thermometer Spoon

No. 4: SalterProbe Stainless Steel Digital Kitchen Thermometer

No. 5: TalaStainless Steel Jam & Confectionery Thermometer

View Full Ranking
The descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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