Are you tired of constantly monitoring your barbecue’s temperature and adjusting the vents to maintain the perfect cooking environment? Look no further, as we delve into the world of BBQ temperature controllers – the game-changing devices that have revolutionized outdoor cooking. Whether you’re a seasoned pitmaster or a novice griller, achieving consistent and precise temperatures has always been a challenge when it comes to slow-cooking or smoking meats. But with the emergence of advanced temperature control technology, enthusiasts can now take their barbecue skills to new heights without the hassle of constant supervision.
It’s a warm summer day, the sun is shining, and you’re surrounded by your closest friends and family. You fire up the grill, marinate your meats, and get ready to enjoy a delicious barbecue. But as you start cooking, you realize that controlling the temperature of your grill is harder than it looks. Your meat is either overcooked and dry or undercooked and unsafe to eat. That’s where the best BBQ temperature controllers come in.
These devices take the guesswork out of grilling, so you can relax and enjoy your barbecue with confidence. In this article, we’ll explore the top temperature controllers on the market and help you find the perfect one for your grilling needs. Say goodbye to burnt brisket and hello to perfectly cooked meats with these cutting-edge temperature controllers.
In this guide, we look at the best BBQ temperature controller. We discuss in detail the top 14 leading models on the market. We looked at things like:
- Wi-Fi connectivity
- Ease of use
- Temperature probes
We’ve also prepared a comprehensive buying guide to help you choose the right BBQ temperature controller that will best suit you.
Table of Contents
Comparison Chart For BBQ Temperature Controllers
If you are in a hurry, read our quick comparison chart below.
14 Best BBQ Temperature Controllers
1. Flame Boss 500-WI-FI Smoke Controller
This is the latest innovation that is compatible with Google Home and Amazon Alexa for voice command control. It is user-friendly and comes with the latest WI-FI technology that helps regulate your BBQ temps. It comes in the latest design, easy to use, and has a patented technology.
If you are tired of the old school smoke controllers, then this is it for you. And if you want an easy-to-use device, then look no further. It is a grill & smoker dome, comes in all sizes, and has an online dashboard too.
Other Features and Benefits
This device comes with a kit that has a WI-FI controller plus grill adapters. This is all you need to get started without having to hassle hard. Moreover, all these are easy to use with clear instructions.
If you are tired of using grills and getting awkward results, then try this, and you will never regret it. It controls both your charcoal and smoke grills, thus making you a master at your game.
As if that is not enough, this device is compatible with both Google Home and Amazon Alexa. All you need to do is integrate them, and you will be good to go.
Lastly, it has a patented technology and is super easy to use. The instructions are clear, and they can even be assembled with eyes closed.
Pros
- It is easy to use
- It has an innovative new design
- It comes with a kit
- It also has an online dashboard
Cons
- The stainless steel mesh sometimes comes detached from the probe.
- Sometimes the instructions are complicated to interpret.
2. Bayite Temperature Controller
Here is another controller that uses individual cooling and heating points to keep your environment in your preferred temperature range. It has a wide range of uses, user-friendly and has a shopping weight of 1.3 pounds.
This is one of the devices that has been upgraded, quite easy to use, and has fantastic features you should take advantage of. It can be used for home brewing, pet breeding, electric oven, and so much more. Moreover, it has a waterproof sensor.
Other Features and Benefits
Are you looking for a device with a simple and latest design? Then this is the right one to grab. All you have to do is to plug and play. It has a precise manual that is very easy to set.
It is versatile, and there is a lot you can do with it, such as fermenting, home brewing, pet breeding, heat mat, incubation, electric oven, BBQ, and so much more.
As if that is not enough, this smoke controller also comes with a one-year warranty. This goes towards replacement or even getting a full refund in case you don’t like or have issues with the item.
Pros
- It has a simple design
- It has a safe protection
- It has digital readouts
Cons
- Sometimes it overheats
3. BN-LINK Digital Temperature Controller
This temperature control tracks your food temperature, giving you that perfect tender, delicious, and tender results you have been looking for. It is a high performance, easy to use, and also comes with a complete WI-FI for your full control.
This device is powered by smart technology to help you have complete control. It is easy to set up and also comes with an easy to follow manual. If you want an equipment that will not give you a hard time, then look no further than this device.
Other Features and Benefits
Forget devices that give you a headache. This device is user-friendly. The BN-LINK controls perfectly well, and it is also easy to set up.
The magnetic mount, rib rack, probe tree for the pit temp probe are all in good shape. The controller is also easy to set up, making your cooking hassle-free. Furthermore, the alerts work perfectly well, and you don’t have to keep watching over the grill.
With the latest technology advancements, who wouldn’t want a temperature controller that is Wi-Fi enabled? This device is and it allows you go about your work as it does the hard work for you.
Pros
- It comes with a high-performance thermometer
- It is user-friendly
- It comes with a smart WI-FI
Cons
- Setting up the WI-FI is a bit complex
4. PitmasterIQ Q120 BBQ Temperature Regulator Kit
This temperature regulator connects almost to any wood or charcoal fueled barbecue pit. It helps give your food that smoky flavor, which makes it delicious. Some of its features include temperature control, easy to use, and has a shipping weight of 2.7 pounds.
The beauty with this temperature controller is that after setting the cooking temperature, it automatically regulates the temperature just like a regular oven. It can easily be installed on cookers in no minute.
Other Features and Benefits
It is almost automatic. After setting the cooking temperature, the only thing left is to get hungry as it regulates the temperature automatically.
The digital display shows the actual food and cooking temperature typically. It comes with a digital encoder knob, which is easy to rotate-making your cooking much more relaxed.
For there has ever been an easy temperature controller, then this is it. It is user-friendly and pocket-friendly as well.
Pros
- It is accurate
- It is easy to use
- It maintains a steady temperature
Cons
- Sometimes it overheats
5. Willhi Wh1436A Temperature Controller
This is another high-performance temperature controller that you should look out for. It features power consumption of less than 3W, sensor cable of up to 3m in length, and it is accurate. It is portable and gives you value for money.
This device has a heating or refrigeration mode where you can set it on and off at a specific set degree. It has a max load of up to 1100W at 110V. It also keeps the temperature in the desired range. In other words, if you are looking for a high performing temperature controller, this is it.
Other Features and Benefits
This is an improved version of whatever heat controllers you have seen on the market. It is user-friendly, has a broader control range, and has an enhanced waterproof sensor probe.
This device also keeps the temperature in the desired range. As if that is not enough, it has an extensive set of functions such as home brewing, electric radiator, incubation, seedling heat mat, and so much more.
Pros
- It has a temperature calibration
- It has a refrigeration or heating working mode
- You don’t have to worry about wiring. You just plug and play
Cons
- It is tricky to program the temperature settings
6. DigiQ DX3BBQ Meat Thermometer and Temperature Controller
This high tech device automatically keeps track of the internal temperature of your food and controls your grill’s temperature just like an oven. It is user-friendly, flexible and gives you that juicy, tender, and delicious barbecue every time.
If you have been faced with burnt, dried, or tough meats, then this is the solution for you. It controls the temperature of your grill, just like what an oven would have done. It fits all smokers and grills and also alerts you with a beep when food is ready.
Other Features and Benefits
With this device, you don’t always have to keep an eye on your meats. After setting it up, just go about your business, and it will alert you with a beep once the meat has reached its desired temperature.
It is precise and accurate. There is no room for guesswork or having to measure the temperature continuously. You just set it once and for all.
Are you worried about the dimensions thinking it might be too big or too small for your grill? Well, this temperature controller fits all smokers and restaurants like a glove.
Pros
- It alerts you with a beep whenever food is ready
- Automatically tracks the food’s internal temperature
- Fits all smokers and grills
- It is easy to assemble
Cons
- Instructions are a bit complex to comprehend
7. Bayite BTC201 Temperature Controller
This is the revamped temperature controller, which is easy to follow. It controls both cooling and heating devices simultaneously. It has a waterproof sensor and has a max load of up to 1100W at 110V Celcius.
This is another device that is multifunctional such as an electric oven, aquarium heater, heat mat, seedling heat mat BBQ fermentation, incubation, and so much more. So, if you want a temperature controller that will not give you a hard time, look no further.
Other Feature and Functions
Forget the other sophisticated heat regulators; this is here to save you all that hassle. It is user-friendly and comes with clear user instructions that are simple to follow to the dot.
It has a simplified design, comes with a dual relay output. As if that is not enough, it comes with a one-year warranty, just in case you are not satisfied with the product.
Pros
- It has a waterproof sensor
- It is multifunctional
- It has a heating and cooling socket
Cons
- It cannot be used with space heaters
8. SMOBOT Wi-Fi Kamado Grill and Smoker Temperature Controller
This is a patented robotic damper system that monitors the temperature of inside your smoker, and it uses high-temperature thermocouple. It is Wi-Fi enabled, and you can change and monitor the setpoint from anywhere.
This high tech device is Wi-Fi enabled, and it gives your grill that “natural” temperature. It is user-friendly, and you can set and monitor the setpoint from wherever you are. How cool it that?
Other Features and Benefits
If you are tired of monitoring and keeping an eye on your grill, then grab yourself this temperature controller. You can set and monitor setpoint from anywhere.
It is easy to assemble and comes with a clear to follow user manual. As if that is not enough, the two food proves to allow you to monitor your food in different locations or different items.
It comes with a robotic damper, which gives the grill that “natural” temperature. What’s more, it also comes with an integrated Wi-Fi, which allows you to monitor your grill directly.
Pros
- It is user-friendly
- It is easy to set up
- It is Wi-Fi enabled
Cons
- Sometimes it is hard to set up the Wi-Fi
9. Flame Boss 400-WiFi Smoker Controller
This device uses a mechanism to make your smoker function like an oven. It is Wi-Fi enabled and also sends an alarm whenever the food is ready. It has a shipping weight of 1.5 pounds.
This temperature controller is multifunctional; it works as a meat thermometer and timer as well. All you need to do is to set the timer, and the rest it will take over. It is W-Fi enabled and maintains a constant temperature all through.
Other Features and Benefits
This device is Wi-Fi enabled. This means you can set the timer and control it either from your tablet or phone, as you go about your regular work.
This temperature controller also works as a meat thermometer, making your life hassle-free. This means you will be killing two birds with one stone.
It comes with an alarm that beeps and alerts you when food is ready. You can always set it and go about your work without getting worried that it will get burned.
Pros
- It is Wi-Fi enables
- It has an alarm that beeps when food is ready
- It is user-friendly
- It is multi-functional
Cons
- Sometimes, the temperature probes go bad.
10. Inkbird ITC-306T Thermostat Temperature Controller
This is a pre-wired temperature controller that is time functions more so for planting and breeding. If you like, you can set to two different temperatures and can also be widely used.
If you are looking for a 24/7 temperature controller that will work on every kind of electrical equipment, then look no further. It has a convenient design; it is easy to use and has a sensor length of up to 2m or 6.5 ft.
Other Features and Benefits
If you are looking for a high tech device that is easy to use and makes your life comfortable, then this is the real deal. It comes with clear to follow instructions, and it’s also easy to set up.
It can display the preferred measured temperature, and it can also set temperature simultaneously. It has a maximum output of up to 1200W.
This device also has a dual time cycle setting whereby you can set separate temperatures, day or night, depending on the physical needs of plants and animals during the 24 hours.
This temperature controller is accurate and always displays actual results. Forget these that tend to fail; this is real value for money.
Pros
- It is user-friendly
- It works as described
Cons
· The settings are bound to fail
11. KETOTEK STC-1000 Digital Temperature Controller
This is another fantastic temperature controller with more than 40 in a waterproof probe cord, which can be used in water and moist environments. It also comes with one year guarantee plus professional support from their electricians.
This device keeps the temperature in your desired range. You rarely hear of anything like inaccuracy. It works both as a cooler and a wiring heater at the same time. As if that is not enough, it also comes with an abs plastic shell plus a compressor delay protection.
Other Features and Benefits
Have you ever bought a device and got stuck with it because it was not fulfilling your needs? Well, worry not as this comes with a one-year warranty and professional support all through.
It is multifunctional and comes with both a cooler and wiring heater at the same time. This makes it easy for you as you don’t have to change between a cooler and a heater frequently.
This device is accurate and keeps the temperature in your desired range. It is an on and off equipment where you only have to switch to your desired temperature and off again.
Pros
- You can wire both eater and cooler at the same time
- Has ready support ever to help you out in case of any issue
- It is accurate
Cons
- Once plugged in, it turns on by default
12. Inkbird PID Thermostat Digital Temperature Controller
This is another high accuracy temperature controller of lightweight of up to 140g. It comes with a dual-display window that can display set temperature and measured temperature as well.
This high tech device from Inkbird has fantastic features that everyone should take advantage of. It accurate, easy to use, and also has a power consumption of approx. 5 VA.
Other Features And Benefits
If you are looking for accuracy, then this is the real deal. It has a manual and auto turning features which enable you to have control over your desired temperature.
It also a dual-display window that is used to display both your set temperature and measured temperature, all at the same time.
It is easy to use and comes with clear instructions to follow. Should you have any issues, you can always reach out to their support team.
Pros
- It is super accurate
- It is easy to use
- It is easy to assemble
- It comes with a dual-display window
Cons
- Sometimes the PID parameters can fail
- Temperature reading gets off after sometime
13. BBQubeTempMaster Pro BBQ Temperature Controller
This is another advanced technology BBQ temperature controller with a rich and easy guide to use. It works with all close-lid grill, whether small or big, kamado, or metal. It comes with a wireless thermometer that can be detached and used on its own.
This temperature controller is perfect for BBQ, where AC power is inconvenient or unavailable. The cordless BBQ temperature control can control for up to 20 hours, how cool is that? You can easily access the functions with the dual OLED displays and a beautiful metal dial.
Other Features and Benefits
It is accurate and comes with easy to follow instructions. All the functions are readily displayed using their OLED displays or the metal dial provided.
It is multi-functional as you can use it on any type of close-lid grill, whether big or small or regardless of whether it’s a kamado or metal.
It also comes with a wireless cordless BBQ which you can detach and use on its own. Moreover, when combined with the camper power box, this device can control for up to 20 hours.
Do you often have issues with AC or power? Then this temperature controller will give you your desired results.
You can also combine this temperature controller with their sous-vide attachment, which can turn a slow-cooked to an evaporation-free sous-vide machine.
With this device, you do not have to babysit the smoker. After setting it up, you can go about your business while you let this temperature controller do the rest of the work just for you.
Pros
- It comes with an adapter for Weber kettle grill
- It has 5x faster probes
- I t is easy to use
- It is pocket friendly
Cons
- Sometimes the digital monitoring functions fail
- Not easy to follow user-manual
14. Inkbird All-Purpose Digital Temperature Controller
This is a digital temperature controller that features an alarm when the temperature exceeds temperature calibrating and so on. It also switches between heating and cooling modes, among other features.
Just like the name suggests, this is an all-purpose temperature controller that can cool and heat simultaneously using two different sides of its electrical relay. Furthermore, when the temperature exceeds the limit, the alarm goes off.
Other Features and Benefits
This is another fantastic device that is user-friendly and has hands-on features. Forget those that give you a headache; this is the real deal.
Are you the busy kind of person who has no time to watch over food as it cooks? Worry not as this device comes with an alarm to alert you. This alarm usually goes off once the food has reached its desired temperature.
It comes with both the Celsius and Fahrenheit, both displayed, and this makes it easy for you to operate. You also have the option of setting the temperature set valve quickly and hassle-free.
As if that is not enough, with this heater, you can use both switches between heating and cooling modes. It is also temperature calibrating.
Pros
- It comes with an alarm to alert you when food is ready
- It is easy to use
- It comes with clear to follow the user manual
- It has a compressor delay
Cons
- Sometimes the wiring can be confusing
- After some time, the temperature reading is inaccurate
Buying Guide of BBQ Temperature Controllers
It is time to find out the most important factors to consider when shopping for the best BBQ temperature controller for your needs. Here are a few points that you should pay attention to when choosing the best model.
1. Display features
Some temperature controllers come equipped with a digital display. Indeed, more expensive models come with more options than their inexpensive counterparts. This may include features like the actual pit temperature, food temperature, fan speed, and so forth.
However, some models do not feature any display at all. And usually, they are cheaper than. Make no mistake. These basic models will still manage the temperature of your smoker or grill. But they won’t display the live feedback. Anyway, not everyone finds this feature necessary.
2. Price
Forget about features, specs, and brand names. The price of an item makes a bigger difference than any other factor for buyers. And BBQ temperature controllers come at a price point that varies greatly.
So the first factor to consider if you have a small budget is the price. You need to ask yourself several questions. For example, is it worth it to spend $100 on a BBQ temperature controller?
Even, so do not let your small budget bar you from purchasing a device you want. It is worth noting that for any price range, there are some models better than others.
And it’s always essential to remember choosing an expensive model doesn’t necessarily guarantee the quality of the equipment will be any better. Even so, the majority of costly temperature controllers are equipped with extra features that can simplify your job. The choice is yours.
3. Materials
You need a BBQ temperature controller that is made of high-quality and durable materials. Plastic is cheap and quite lightweight. You will find most temperature controllers make use of plastics, which helps to lower the overall manufacturing cost. But some devices are a little more rugged and resistant than others.
4. Ease of use
Ease of use or ergonomics is an essential that every great BBQ temperature controller has. In other words, the device should be efficient, effective, engaging, and easy to learn. An interface that is easy to learn lets users to build on their knowledge without much effort.
You do not want to invest your money in a device you are not going to use, right? If the display shows complicated texts you cannot understand, it’s not worth it.
You need a temperature controller that is simple and easy to use. It doesn’t matter whether or not it has an LCD screen, the right temperature controller should be easy to understand.
5. Ease of cleaning
These devices are made to be used alongside smoker grills. So, they will undoubtedly get dirty. Choosing a model that is easy to clean and maintain will save you a lot of time and stress.
6. Temperature probes
A temperature probe is a type of sensor that measures the amount of heat that is generated by the grill. Most BBQ temperature controllers come with two probes – food and pit probes. Even so, the majority of the cheaper options only come with a pit probe. So you are forced to purchase a food thermometer separately. That’s why it is advisable to opt for a model that comes equipped with both.
7. Research
Before purchasing a BBQ temperature controller, do your research. Read online reviews or join online BBQ forums. You may want to visit online marketplaces like Amazon to explore their different prices. Also, talk to co-workers, friends, and relatives about what temperature controllers they use.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How does a BBQ temperature controller work?
Usually, a BBQ temperature controller has a built-in sensor that provides it with feedback regarding temperature changes. The temperature controller then responds accordingly by altering the temperature to the desired level. In other words, it removes the guesswork when controlling a BBQ temperature.
What is the ideal BBQ temperature controller for me?
The temperature controller best suited for you will depend on so many factors. These factors include but not limited to the price of the controller, the type of your grill, and your grilling needs.
How do I install a temperature controller?
Well, it is pretty easy to install your temperature controller. However, the installation process will depend on the type of smoker. But most temperature controllers will require you to connect their adapters to one of the vents of your smoker.
Best overall
The Flame Boss 500 is ideal for people with a limited budget. Despite its low price, it gives you the option to change and monitor temperature from your smartphone. It supports WI-FI connectivity and will work on your computer as well. Also, it boasts a variable speed fan, notification option, and a bright screen.
Conclusion
Learning how to regulate the temperature of your smoker is very crucial. But this is not practical on many levels. That’s why you need an excellent BBQ temperature controller. While these devices may seem like a luxury, they can be an excellent investment. So make use of these handy tips from our blog and make the right choice.
Let us know in the comment section below if you think we have missed anything. If you have had any experiences with these devices, you can also let us know.
The use of BBQ temperature controllers has revolutionized the art of outdoor cooking. By offering precise control over grill and smoker temperatures, these devices have empowered both novice and experienced pitmasters to consistently achieve delicious, perfectly-cooked barbecue. The convenience and peace of mind that come with being able to effortlessly maintain a steady temperature throughout the entire cooking process cannot be overstated.
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