Best Budget-Friendly: eLander Pro Water Thermometer

Pool thermometers come in two basic types: those that float and those that don’t!

Floating pool thermometers are great for taking the temperature near the surface of a pool. But they do have a drawback: they can get in the way of kiddos, who can break them (some are glass).

Non-floating thermometers are excellent for spas, as they take the temperature deeper than the surface (that can matter in the winter). And non-floating thermometers can be secured near the edge of the pool . . . away from children.

For the best budget-friendly pool thermometer that floats, we like eLander Pro Water Thermometer best. Accurate, easy to use . . . and easy on the wallet.

What We Liked

• Floats!

• Works well.

• String lets you tie it down, to keep it from floating around the pool.

• Affordable.

What Needs Work

• Markings could be easier to read. We found it easy enough to read this thermometer, but others have somewhat larger markings (which make it easier to read from a distance).

• Can fog up after long-term use.

Easiest To Read Thermometer: SplashTech Pocket Reservoir Pool Thermometer

For the best non-floating pool thermometer we think SplashTech’s Pocket Reservoir was the best bet—it is the easiest to read among those we tested and researched.

What We Liked

• Accurate!

• Large numbers = easy to read.

• Base has reservoir so you can take the temperature of the water without submerging it, if you wish.

What Needs Work

• Doesn’t float. Hence, this thermometer works best in spas or other places where you can tie it up.

Best Funny Pool Thermometer: Floating Pool Thermometer

If you want a pool thermometer with a bit of whimsy, we like this Floating Pool Thermometer. Yes, it is sure to get a chuckle from your friends!

What We Liked

• Accurate.

• Cute!

• Simple to use.

• Rope tether.

What Needs Work

• Can fade over time.

• Could be easier to read.

Best For Pool Deep End: Pentair R141036 127 Tube Thermometer

If you need to measure the temperature in the deep end of a pool, we suggest Pentair’s R141036—it sinks, enabling you to get a reading three feet below the surface. Works well!

What We Liked

• Longer tether than others. Most pool thermometers have shorter tethers; this one can be used in a deep end of a pool.

• Easy to read.

What Needs Work

• Pricey.

• Doesn’t float. This isn’t the right thermometer if you want something that floats! See the earlier picks in this article for ideas on floating pool thermometers.

Why Trust Us

We’ve been rating and reviewing products for the home and families since 1994. We do hands-on testing—we buy the products with our own money and evaluate with an eye toward quality, ease of use and affordability.

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