Best Ear Thermometers

An ear thermometer, as the name suggests, is placed in the ear cavity to measure body temperature. It works by emitting an infrared beam that is projected on the eardrum to measure temperature.

Ear thermometers are known to give almost accurate temperature readings of an individual’s body. They have a small tube at one end which is inserted in the patient’s ear. This tube projects an infrared beam straight into the patient’s eardrum. The eardrum’s temperature is considered the same as the body’s general temperature, due to its proximity to the hypothalamus―the part of the brain that controls body temperature.

Over the years, ear thermometers have become increasingly common, as they give results that are more accurate when compared to auxiliary and sublingual thermometers. In addition, they are easier to use and take as little as a second to detect body temperature. This makes them the ideal choice to use on infants and in cases where auxiliary or sublingual temperatures cannot be taken (e.g., after surgery).

There are many ear thermometers in the market, all with different functions and prices. These can be bought at any pharmacy, or can even be ordered online. Here are a few of the best ear thermometers available.

Note.―
1. All Dimensions are in height (inches) x width (inches) format.
2. Prices mentioned are indicative and may vary from store to store.

Braun – Thermoscan Ear Thermometer IRT4520

Tips to Use an Ear Thermometer

1. Only use designated ear thermometers that use infrared technology for temperature scanning. A mercury (oral or rectal) thermometer should never be used for tympanic temperature measurement.
2. Always use the thermometer in the same ear (usually right one).
3. If your thermometer is not waterproof, do not wash it with water or wipe it with a wet cloth; just use a dry cloth to clean its tip.
4. Some thermometers have an automated facility to preheat the tip, while some are needed to be done manually. Follow the instructions in the product manual to preheat the tip.
5. Some ear thermometers come with a disposable sheath that covers the tip for hygienic purposes. Make sure these are replaced as per the manufacturer’s instructions as well.
6. Make sure you buy a product with a sensitive and soft tip, so that it doesn’t hurt the ear. This care should be taken more so if the thermometer is going to be used on babies rather regularly.

Although all the thermometers mentioned above are good, a feature-by-feature analysis will tell you that Braun’s IRT4520 and Vicks’ V980 are the best products in the category. Price-wise, ProCheck’s IRDY1-1-PRO and models from CVS are highly affordable, while Mabis, Veridian, and Omron offer astonishing warranties. In the warranty race though, Vicks beats everyone hands down with a lifetime warranty offer. However, it is a matter of personal requirements, so weigh in all your options according to your requirements before proceeding to make your purchase.