Meat thermometers are an essential tool for any cook, whether you’re grilling outdoors or cooking in the kitchen. They help ensure that you cook meat to the perfect temperature, avoiding undercooked or overcooked results. While most meat thermometers use wired probes attached to a display or hub, Meater’s probes are completely wireless. This means that you don’t have to worry about maneuvering around a cable while flipping or moving items on the grill. They’re also easier to use when wrapping large cuts of meat, such as pork shoulders or brisket.
Meater, a company owned by Traeger, has released its latest model, the Meater 2 Plus. While it may look similar to Meater’s previous models, there are significant upgrades. The device now has additional sensors for more precise temperature readings, as well as increased heat resistance and overall durability. Despite these improvements, the price has not drastically increased.
The biggest change in the Meater 2 Plus is the addition of four more internal temperature sensors, bringing the total to five. There is also an ambient temperature sensor on the opposite end to monitor grill temperatures. Meater claims that these five sensors offer the “real core temperature of the meat,” helping to reduce any errors in probe placement. The app displays the lowest temperature of the five sensors and uses that for any target temperatures set by the user. Additionally, the app provides guidance on target temperatures based on desired doneness level and offers a manual mode for those who prefer more control. The app calculates estimated finishing time based on internal and ambient temperatures and provides alerts for when the target temperature is reached and when the required rest time is over.
In addition to these upgrades, Meater has also introduced a new Master Class feature in its app. This feature offers over 50 video courses that teach cooking techniques such as two-zone BBQ and reverse searing. The videos include step-by-step demonstrations, ingredient and tool checklists, and detailed written instructions. Meater plans to release new classes on a weekly basis.
The Meater 2 Plus has also undergone physical upgrades. It now has improved heat resistance and durability, with the ability to withstand open flames at temperatures up to 932 degrees Fahrenheit (500 Celsius). This allows the probe to be kept in place while searing, and the app will provide a warning if the device gets too hot. The Meater 2 Plus is also fully waterproof, making it suitable for deep frying or sous vide cooking.
These temperature and waterproof upgrades are made possible by a new full-metal, stainless steel probe design. The Meater 2 Plus is 30 percent slimmer than the previous model and includes a new Zirconia ceramic band that allows the Bluetooth signal to radiate from the device. The Meater 2 Plus has an expanded Bluetooth range of up to 250 feet, compared to 165 feet on the previous model. The device can technically achieve a range of 2,500 feet, but that requires a direct line of sight and no RF interference.
The Meater 2 Plus also offers improved battery life and charging efficiency. It can be recharged for up to two years with one AAA battery, double the longevity of the previous model. A fully charged probe will last over 24 hours before needing to be docked. The Meater 2 Plus charges to 50 percent in just 15 minutes, enough for a 12-hour low-and-slow barbeque session. The device can also be docked when not in use to eliminate the need for charging.
Overall, the Meater 2 Plus has proven to be a reliable and convenient tool in my tests. The wireless design saves time and makes cleanup easier, and the increased precision allows for more control over cooking. The improved heat resistance and durability ensure that the device can withstand high temperatures, and the waterproof design expands its versatility. The Meater 2 Plus is available for purchase on the company’s website for $119.95.