The 11 Best Baby Thermometers for Accurate Readings and Peace of Mind
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We tested dozens of thermometers on our kids to find the best ones for babies
Verywell Family / Jessica Juliao
Medically reviewed by Lyndsey Garbi, MDFact checked by Rich Scherr
An accurate, user-friendly thermometer is an essential baby item you need to have at the ready but hope you don't need all that often. Typically, a fever is a temperature of 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit or higher and a sign of the body fighting an illness. Although most fevers are not a cause for concern, in babies and newborns, a fever is a symptom your child's pediatrician will want to evaluate. To select the best baby thermometer for your family, you'll want to consider the type of thermometer you'd prefer and where on the body you feel most comfortable using it. You can take a child's temperature via various methods, including orally, under the arm, rectally, on the forehead, and in the ear.
To find the best baby thermometers, we researched safety guidelines issued by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP). We also spoke to parents, caregivers, and medical professionals, including Eric Ascher, DO, a family medicine physician at Lenox Hill Hospital; Melanie Pitone, MD, board-certified in pediatrics and pediatric emergency medicine, and medical editor at Nemours KidsHealth; Mona Amin, DO, a board-certified general pediatrician based in Florida; Tamika Patilla, MD, a pediatrician at Akron Children's Hospital; and Amanda Stovall, MD, an Illinois-based board-certified pediatrician. A pediatrician from our Review Board examined the contents of this article for accuracy and safety in correspondence to proper use. With this guidance in mind, we researched dozens of top-rated baby thermometers in the market, considering their design, ease of setup and use, responsiveness, data readability, consistency, and overall value. We then narrowed our list to 25 baby thermometers, which we put through multiple tests at the Verywell Testing Lab in New York City.
During our test, our health and parenting editors set up each thermometer per the manufacturers' recommendations. When applicable, we downloaded corresponding apps. We measured our temperature three times in one day, waiting five to 10 minutes between each measurement to determine consistency and precision. We ensured our parenting editors did not drink anything hot or cold, shower, or exercise for at least 30 minutes before taking temperatures for the most accurate readings. We used each thermometer's features, like memory storage, switching from Celsius to Fahrenheit, and mute functions. After thorough testing, we selected the 11 best baby thermometers and sent them home with our editors, who continue to use them (with the help of their children) to determine their consistency, quality, and efficiency in the real world. To ensure we're recommending the best baby thermometers for families, we continue to update this list as our editors provide additional feedback.
Best Overall: Kinsa Smart Thermometer
Pros
One button to use
Use with or without app
Consistent readings
Cons
No storage case
The Kinsa QuickCare Smart Thermometer impressed us with its uncomplicated setup, straightforward use, and consistent readings. Whether utilizing the thermometer with the free app or without, it’s simple to set up straight out of the box (coin battery included). You only have to press one button to turn the thermometer on. It connects via Bluetooth to the Kinsa app, which allows parents and caregivers to log individual profiles, track medication with reminders, receive medical guidance, and more. We love how intuitive the app is to manage each family member’s health chart (with personalized avatars), so you can show results to your doctor if necessary. There’s even an adorable animated elephant on the app to distract children while you take their temperature.
You can use the Kinsa smart thermometer to take your baby’s temperature three ways: orally, rectally, or under the arm. The company says you’ll receive a reading in 8 seconds or less, which we found accurate—we received temperature measurements in approximately 5 to 6 seconds. A light and sound indicator lets you know when the task is complete. One of our favorite features of the Kinsa thermometer is that you don’t need your phone nearby for the temperature to sync to the app. In addition, the large display screen makes it effortless to read numbers and lights up for you to read temps in the middle of the night.
We took our children’s temperatures and our own and found readings consistent with how we felt. The most significant variance was half a degree over multiple reads. The only downside to the Kinsa QuickCare Smart Thermometer is the lack of a storage case. Otherwise, we think the baby thermometer is of great value with its convenient app and the option to forego it altogether. Plus, it’s FSA/HSA eligible and comes with a one-year warranty for defects in quality and materials.
Price at time of publication: $30
Key Specs:
Type: Rectal, armpit, and oral | Display: Digital | Response Time: Up to 8 seconds | Age Recommendation: Newborn and up | Battery Type: Coin (included)
Best for Quick Results: Dreambaby Non-Contact Fever Alert Infrared Forehead Thermometer
Pros
One-second results
Three-color LCD backlight
Auto shut-off preserves battery power
Cons
No option to silence alert tone
Memory function not intuitive
Easy peasy lemon squeezy is the Dreambaby Non-Contact Infrared Forehead Thermometer. Install two AAA batteries (included), press the power button to turn the thermometer on, and wait for a single beep to signal it’s ready. There’s the option to set up the date and time, although we needed the instruction manual to understand this feature. Still, you can skip this function and head straight into temperature-taking. Point the infrared thermometer at the forehead and touch the “Start” button for your reading to appear in one second—no contact necessary.
We enjoyed the display screen’s large numbers and three-color LCD backlight to help you identify if a fever is present: Green means a normal temperature, yellow signifies a slightly elevated temperature, and red indicates a high fever. An alert tone lets you know when the reading is ready to view. Unfortunately, there’s no option to silence the beep if you’re trying to get a sleeping baby’s temperature. On the plus side, we collected consistent data both in the lab and at home for weeks with this thermometer.
While the Dreambaby forehead thermometer doesn’t connect to an app, it will store the last 10 temperature readings. The thermometer switches from Fahrenheit to Celcius, but the feature isn’t obvious. We recommend keeping the instructions nearby should you want to take advantage of these useful functions. The thermometer automatically turns off when not in use to help preserve battery power. With all its helpful features and a one-second response time, we think the Dreambaby Infrared Forehead Thermometer's price is worth it and will pay for itself.
Price at time of publication: $30
Key Specs:
Type: Forehead | Display: Digital | Response Time: 1 second | Age Recommendation: Newborn and up | Battery Type: 2 AAAs (included)
Best Ear: Braun ThermoScan 7 Digital Ear Thermometer
Pros
Disposable lens covers included
Quick results
One degree or less variations
Cons
Memory function doesn't record multiple users
An ear thermometer for babies, like the Braun Thermoscan 7, is a lifesaver and a great alternative to the rectal method. In addition, the thermometer allows you to select the user's age group, including newborn to 3 months, 3 to 36 months, and 36 months and up. However, it's important to remember that the AAP doesn't recommend ear thermometers for babies under 6 months old due to their small ear canals that can result in unreliable readings.
We love how fast the Braun thermometer showed us results on the color-coded screen in only a few seconds. Additionally, all readings varied less than one degree each time, so we didn't feel concerned about accuracy.
This Braun thermometer holds up to nine readings but can't differentiate between users. The company includes disposable ear covers for hygiene purposes, making it one less thing on your need-to-buy list.
Price at time of publication: $62
Key Specs:
Type: Ear | Display: Digital | Response Time: 3 seconds | Age Recommendation: 6 months old and up | Battery Type: 2 AAs
Best Value: Tommee Tippee Digital No Touch Forehead Thermometer
Pros
Forehead or surface temperature
Straightforward use
Stores up to 25 readings
Cons
No backlight on LCD screen
Touchless thermometers can garner a higher cost due to special infrared technology, but the Tommee Tippee Forehead Thermometer is a notable exception. It took us less than two minutes to unbox the thermometer, insert the two included AAA batteries, and press the on-and-off button to activate—no directions needed. We used the thermometer on ourselves and our children and found it straightforward to maneuver for any age. Hold the scanner up to 2 inches from the middle of the forehead to eliminate potential cross-contamination, and push the “Start” button. You’ll obtain a reading on the LCD panel within two seconds. While the screen is not backlit for better visibility at night, we thought the large, easy-to-read numbers make up for it. To indicate a fever, the thermometer sounds off three short beeps followed by one long beep, but you can turn them off thanks to the mute feature.
We were pleasantly surprised when we discovered the thermometer measures more than forehead temps. An infrared mode allows you to measure surface temperatures, like bath water or breast milk. We received consistent readings for weeks with the Tommee Tippee thermometer regardless of measuring forehead or surface temperature. Its memory function is a tad tricky to scroll through, but it stores up to 25 readings so that you can track your child’s temperature over time. For less than $25, this thermometer is budget-friendly with its simple design and consistent measurements.
Price at time of publication: $21
Key Specs:
Type: Forehead | Display: Digital | Response Time: 2 seconds | Age Recommendation: Newborn and up | Battery Type: 2 AAAs (included)
Related: The 13 Best Thermometers for Kids and Adults of 2023, Tested and Reviewed
Best With App: Kinsa QuickScan Non-Contact Smart Forehead Thermometer
Pros
Use with or without the app
App stores readings, medications, and more
Consistent temperature results
Cons
Bypassing app not intuitive
No color-coded display for fevers
If you want a thermometer with a smart app that can help you track your baby’s temperature and determine the best course of action, you’ll love the Kinsa QuickScan Non-Contact Thermometer as much as we did. After you put in the two AAA batteries (included), the thermometer directs you to download and connect to the free Kinsa app. It took us less than a minute to set everything up, but you can also bypass the app and use it like a regular thermometer (although skipping the app wasn’t intuitive—you must double-tap the button in the front every time you want to use it without the app).
We were impressed by how quick this thermometer is: We received temperature readings in three seconds or less after pointing the thermometer at our foreheads, approximately 1 to 3 centimeters (0.4-1.1 inches) away. The app warns you when a fever is present and also provides recommendations on what to do next, such as when to call the doctor or what other symptoms to look for. The app also allows you to create profiles for each family member, store data in Fahrenheit or Celsius scales, track symptoms and medications, and more. During our tests, the readings accurately reflected how we felt and didn’t fluctuate enough to concern us. We believe the $39 price tag is fair for a thermometer with an app capable of tracking readings, prescriptions, and so much more.
Price at time of publication: $39
Key Specs:
Type: Forehead | Display: Digital | Response Time: 3 seconds | Age Recommendation: Newborn and up | Battery Type: 2 AAAs
Related: The Best Baby Teethers for Soothing Your Little One's Sore Gums
Best No Touch: Braun No Touch 3-in-1 Thermometer
Pros
Age group options
Guidance light for accurate measurements
Color-coded display screen
Cons
No app
A non-contact thermometer like the Braun 3-in-1 No Touch creates less opportunity to spread germs with a sick kiddo. We appreciate the included batteries and picture instructions for a simple set-up. What we love most about the thermometer is the option to select temperature-taking for various age groups, including newborn to 3 months, 3 to 36 months, and 36 months and up, which helps determine the action that should be taken according to recommendations for the specific age group.
To take your baby’s temperature, aim the thermometer at their forehead using the unique guidance light and push a single button. Readings pop up on the color-coded display in five seconds (the company says two) to inform you if your baby has a fever. There’s also a beeping sound to alert you when the reading is available, but you can silence it for temperature-taking on a sleeping baby. To eliminate second-guessing yourself, red and yellow display colors indicate a low or high fever, while green means you’re good to go.
The Braun thermometer also measures the temperatures of objects or surfaces, like food or bath water. Unfortunately, it does not feature a memory function to save readings, so you’ll want to keep that in mind. Still, the thermometer gave us consistent data that confirmed how we felt, and the most significant temperature variation we received was only half a degree.
Braun has been on the market for over 100 years creating various products, from coffee makers to thermometers. In addition to the thermometer’s simple-to-use design, you also pay for the company’s trusted brand name.
Price at time of publication: $26
Key Specs:
Type: Forehead | Display: Digital | Response Time: 2 to 5 seconds | Age Recommendation: Newborn and up | Battery Type: 2 AAs (included)
Related: The Best OTC Allergy Medicines of 2023, Tested by Allergy Sufferers
Best Display: Vicks Non-Contact Infrared Thermometer
Pros
Screen changes colors for fever indicators
Frown or happy face confirms results
Mute function
Cons
Shape reminds children of a toy
Doesn’t connect to an app
The Vicks Non-Contact Infrared Body Thermometer's LED screen is this device's highlight. To light up the screen, put the two included AAA batteries into the base of the thermometer and you're all set. When you're ready to take your little one's temperature, point the thermometer at their forehead (slightly above and between the eyebrows) and click for an instant reading. We love the LED backlight on the large screen, so you don't have to squint or question numbers. The Vicks thermometer turns green, yellow, or red depending on the temperature reading. High fevers are red, mild fevers turn the screen yellow, and green is good (no fever detected). The thermometer features a happy or frowny face when your temperature is ready to help you avoid additional speculation. Plus, the optional beeping sound lets you take a child's temperature discreetly when necessary.
In addition to the thermometer's user-friendly screen, the consistent readings were also impressive. We never experienced more than a degree difference between temperature records, and they corresponded well with how we felt. While there's no app to store or track health data, the memory recall function stores up to 50 readings in Fahrenheit or Celsius, depending on your preference.
Vicks is likely a name you recognize; you've probably used the company's VapoRub for yourself a time or two (or dozen). When on sale, the Vicks infrared thermometer is an absolute steal, but the $55 list price is also worth the value for stress-free temperature-taking.
Price at time of publication: $55
Key Specs:
Type: Forehead | Display: Digital | Response Time: 2 seconds | Age Recommendation: Newborn and up | Battery Type: 2 AAAs
Related: The 10 Best Mosquito Bite Relief Products Recommended by Doctors to Stop the Itch
Best Accuracy: Berrcom Non Contact Infrared Forehead Thermometer
Pros
Effortless setup and use
Quick response time
Consistent results
Cons
Batteries not included
The Berrcom Non-Contact Infrared Forehead Thermometer is all about precision—an essential feature for parents and caregivers looking after a sick baby. While we wish the thermometer had the two necessary AA batteries, the overall setup is effortless. Once you insert the batteries into the bottom of the ergonomic handle, press the trigger button to activate the power. In addition to forehead temperatures, the thermometer measures room and surface temperatures, like the Tommee Tippee Touchless Baby Forehead Thermometer. We used the thermometer on ourselves and a cup of water and gathered consistent readings with approximately one-degree variations. Point the thermometer at the forehead (1 to 2 inches away), click the “Scan” button once, and read your temp immediately. A beeping sound lets you know when the temperature reading is ready for viewing, or you can opt for the mute mode for silent use.
One of our favorite features of the Berrcom thermometer is the multi-color backlit display. A high fever (100.4 or higher) turns the screen red, orange means a low-grade fever is present, and green represents a normal temperature. The thermometer’s memory recall function collects the last 32 temperature measurements in Fahrenheit or Celcius. After 30 seconds of no use, the device automatically shuts off to conserve battery life. The low cost of the infrared baby thermometer is the icing on the cake.
Price at time of publication: $11
Key Specs:
Type: Forehead | Display: Digital | Response Time: 1 second | Age Recommendation: Newborn and up | Battery Type: 2 AAs (not included)
Related: The Best Baby Nasal Aspirators to Help Keep Tiny Noses Snot-Free
Best Easy to Read: Disen No-Touch Forehead Thermometer
Pros
Large font on color-coded LCD
Fast results time
Storage case included
Cons
App not available
The Disen No-Touch Forehead Thermometer is easy to read any hour of the day thanks to its color-coded backlit display with large font. All you need to do to set it up is insert the two included AAA batteries into the back of the thermometer and turn it on. The Disen thermometer’s sleek design features three buttons with corresponding and intuitive symbols, like an X over a microphone for mute and “Mem” for the memory function (32 readings total). The switch from Celsius to Fahrenheit discreetly sits in the battery compartment, away from curious tiny fingers. To use the thermometer, point it at the forehead at least 1 to 3 centimeters (0.4-1.1 inches) away and press the measurement button. You can also use the thermometer to measure the temperatures of a room or object and liquids.
The one-second result time is a real treat when you have a sick baby on your hip and no time to waste. We used the thermometer on a child to confirm a fever following a recent vaccine, and the red screen backed how the child was acting (sluggish and tired). The display screen also turns orange for low-grade fevers and green for no fevers. A beeping sound notifies you when a reading is ready, but you can turn it off by pressing the mute button. When the thermometer goes 15 seconds without use, it turns off to save battery energy.
With many useful features for parents and caregivers, like a backlit display screen and fast response time, we find the thermometer’s price fair. In addition, the company offers a 12-month warranty to cover your purchase for any defects. Bonus: The thermometer comes in a storage pouch for additional protection in the medicine cabinet or the diaper bag.
Price at time of publication: $30
Key Specs:
Type: Forehead | Display: Digital | Response Time: 1 second | Age Recommendation: Newborn and up | Battery Type: 2 AAAs (included)
Related: The 18 Best Diaper Bag Backpacks of 2023, Tested and Reviewed
Best Budget: Boncare Digital Oral Thermometer
Pros
Rectal, under the arm, and oral uses
One button
Single beeping noise when temp is ready
Cons
Up to 30-second response time
Display screen not backlit
The Boncare Digital Thermometer features three modes of use: oral, rectal, and under the arm. We love the simplicity of the single-button use for all three temperature-taking methods, but we did have a little trouble pressing the button to turn it on. In addition, we appreciate the consistent readings for multiple editors in the lab and at home, with no more than a one-degree difference each time. However, taking another measurement with the thermometer still on is unclear to us. The instructions didn’t explain how to do this, so we turned the thermometer off and back on, which resolved it. It also arrives in a nice clear case that opens seamlessly.
While the company boasts a 10-second response time, we sometimes found this inaccurate—we waited between five and 30 seconds for the LCD screen to show temperature readings. Also, the display is not backlit, so you’d be unable to read it in a dark room. On the other hand, the digital screen is a breeze to interpret in Fahrenheit or Celsius, and a single beeping noise alerts you when the reading is ready. The thermometer also stores the last temperature (but only one temperature). Still, the $8 price tag is almost too good to be true (except it’s not).
Price at time of publication: $8
Key Specs:
Type: Oral, rectal, and under the arm | Display: Digital | Response Time: 5 to 30 seconds | Age Recommendation: Newborn and up | Battery Type: Coin (included)
Related: The 13 Best Diapers of 2023
Best Basic: iProven Oral and Rectal Digital Thermometer
Pros
Waterproof
One-button measurement
Storage case included
Cons
Slower response time (10 seconds)
The iProven thermometer is a basic oral and rectal thermometer for kids and people of all ages, from newborns to adults. First, you'll want to decide how to use the thermometer. If you're going to use it as a rectal thermometer for a newborn, label it as such to avoid any future confusion.
To take your baby's temperature, you only need to press one button. We thought the reading was clear and loved how it stayed on the screen for a long time. However, keep in mind that results take 10 seconds to show up on the digital display, which can either feel quick or like a lifetime. In addition to the temperature reading, a built-in fever indicator (an arrow pointing to a happy or sad face) also shows if your little one has a fever. We appreciate the hard case for storage, travel, and additional hygiene protection. The auto shut-off feature ensures you're not replacing batteries every few days.
Each iProven Oral & Rectal Thermometer has a returnless refund policy, meaning you don't have to send the device back if you're unhappy with it to receive compensation.
Price at time of publication: $15
Key Specs:
Type: Oral and rectal | Display: Digital | Response Time: 10 seconds | Age Recommendation: Newborn and up | Battery Type: Coin
Verywell Family / Leticia Almeida
How We Rated Baby Thermometers
4.8 to 5 stars: These are the best baby thermometers we tested. We recommend them without reservation.
4.5 to 4.7 stars: These baby thermometers are excellent—they might have minor flaws, but we still recommend them.
4.0 to 4.5 stars: We think these are great baby thermometers, but others are better.
3.5 to 3.9 stars: These baby thermometers are just average.
3.4 and below: We don't recommend baby thermometers with this rating; you won't find any on our list.
Baby Thermometers We Also Tested
Fridababy Digital True Temp Thermometer: We love the versatile design of this Fridababy thermometer, which folds for rectal temperature readings or extends for oral and underarm readings. The thermometer is intuitive, easy to use, and consistent. However, the 30-second reading window can feel like a lifetime with a child, and we accidentally turned it off a couple of times when changing measurement modes.
MOBI DualScan Ultra Pulse Ear and Forehead Thermometer: The quick result time and easy use of the MOBI thermometer are impressive. Readings only took one second with the push of a button. However, the readings varied slightly.
How We Tested Baby Thermometers
Thirty-two parenting editors evaluated 25 baby thermometers at the Verywell Testing Lab in New York City and then took them home to incorporate into their daily routines. Both in the lab and at home, we assessed each baby thermometer on several attributes, including ease of setup, responsiveness, consistency, ease of use, data readability, and overall value. We also spoke with Eric Ascher, DO,, family medicine physician at Lenox Hill Hospital; Melanie Pitone, MD, medical editor at Nemours KidsHealth who is board-certified in pediatrics and pediatric emergency medicine; Mona Amin, DO, board-certified general pediatrician based in Florida; Tamika Patilla, MD, pediatrician at Akron Children’s Hospital; and Amanda Stovall, MD, Illinois-based board-certified pediatrician. These knowledgeable experts helped us determine what to look for in thermometers, how to use a baby thermometer correctly, and when a fever is a cause for concern. Moreover, we reviewed guidance from the AAP, CDC, and AAFP on the different types of thermometers and how to use them, as well as how to identify and manage fevers in children.
To ensure the most accurate temperature readings, we asked our parenting editors to abstain from eating or drinking (both hot and cold items) for at least 10 minutes before taking temperatures. In addition, we asked them to refrain from taking a hot shower or exercising for 30 minutes before temperature readings.
First, we washed our hands with soap and water and set up each thermometer per the manufacturer’s recommendations. We wanted to know how complicated or easy the thermometer’s setup process was, in addition to setting up the corresponding app, if applicable. Next, we measured our temperatures three times in one day, waiting five to 10 minutes between each measurement to determine consistency and accuracy. Next, we looked for any discernible changes from the previous readings and if there was an indicator when the results were complete. Additionally, we studied the display screens to see how clear or unclear the readings were. Finally, after viewing our temperatures, we considered whether the readings were accurate and consistent with how we felt.
Following the initial test, we used the thermometers for one month, tracking our temperatures three times a day, once a week, for four weeks. We wanted to know if the readings remained consistent and corresponded with how we (and our kiddos) felt. Our parenting editors and their children continue to use these baby thermometers and evaluate them on the same attributes we tested in the lab. We will update our list with current information on how the baby thermometers hold up over the next six months and beyond.
What to Look for in a Baby Thermometer
Types of Baby Thermometers
Digital baby thermometers break down into a few categories depending on where you use them. Most baby thermometers allow you to measure temperatures via five locations on the body: oral, rectal, armpit, forehead, and ear.
Oral: An oral thermometer is positioned directly under the tongue. This type of thermometer is easy to use, but it's best for older children (4 years and up, per the AAP) and adults.
Rectal: All our experts agree that a rectal thermometer will give you the most accurate results for infants under 3 months. According to Dr. Amin and Dr. Patilla, this type of baby thermometer gives you the body's core temperature—unlike ear and forehead thermometers, which may be influenced by warmth on the skin's surface. An important note: Once you use a thermometer rectally, that should be its only purpose going forward, so be sure to label it.
Armpit: Technically referred to as axillary thermometers, these resemble the design of oral thermometers but go in the armpit. Dr. Amin says axillary thermometers are a great way to check the temperature of a cooperative child who stays still for the reading. However, while armpit measurements can indicate if a fever is present, they're not the most accurate.
Ear and forehead: Ear and forehead thermometers can be a two-for-one deal. Sometimes you use it with a cap for taking temporal (forehead) temperatures and remove the cap to take tympanic (ear) temperatures. There are also infrared thermometers, which use special technology to read temperatures on the forehead or ear without touching the skin. Just remember that temperatures can be falsely high if a child lies on their side, Dr. Amin says.
According to Dr. Stovall, old-fashioned mercury thermometers should be avoided because mercury poses a health hazard if ingested.
Ease of Use
The easiest thermometers to use are the non-contact variety, such as the Kinsa QuickScan Smart Thermometer, the Dreambaby Infrared Forehead Thermometer, and the Disen No-Touch Forehead Thermometer. However, this may not be the best type for your baby. According to the AAP, the temperature of infants under 3 months should be taken using a rectal thermometer in order to obtain the most accurate reading. If you’re uncomfortable with this method, the second best option is a forehead thermometer, according to Dr. Patilla. An ear thermometer, such as the Braun Thermoscan 7, is also pretty easy to use and recommended for babies over 6 months
Additional features in modern thermometers can make it easier to take your baby’s temperature and figure out what to do next. Look for thermometers with sound indicators, one-button activation, color-coded temperature readings, an ergonomic design, and apps. We particularly like the Kinsa QuickCare Smart Thermometer because it features the most complete app we’ve tested. The Kinsa app allows you to create and customize profiles for each family member and keep detailed temperature records, including date and time, other symptoms, treatment, and more.
If you just want to know your baby’s temperature and not deal with smartphones, technology, and apps, the Vicks Non-Contact Infrared Thermometer is a reliable option that provides color-coded results, features an easy-to-read display, and can have results as quickly as two seconds.
Response Time
When your baby is sick, the last thing you want to do is sit around waiting for a temperature reading—and a sick baby won’t want to sit still while the thermometer takes its sweet time sensing their temp. Luckily, the thermometers on our list can give you an answer in a matter of seconds. According to our tests, the fastest baby thermometers are the Dreambaby Infrared Forehead Thermometer, the Berrcom Non-Contact Infrared Forehead Thermometer, and the Disen No-Touch Forehead Thermometer, all of which can give you a reading as quickly as one second.
Data Readability and Storage
For parents and caregivers who wish to track a baby's temperature, some thermometers, such as the Kinsa QuickScan Non-Contact Thermometer, can connect to an app to record temperatures and symptoms for future reference and conversations with a doctor. Many also have the option to add individual profiles for everyone in the entire family.
Even if you don't want a thermometer that connects to a smartphone, several options, like the Disen No-Touch Forehead Thermometer or Berrcom Non Contact Infrared Thermometer, store temperature readings without an app. Those can generally hold a certain number of readings on the actual device until you're ready to override them with new results.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of thermometer is best for newborns?
The best thermometer for a newborn is a rectal thermometer because it provides the most accurate reading for babies 3 months or younger. To take their temperature rectally, you’ll need a little bit of lubricant (such as petroleum jelly) and a firm surface. Remember to disinfect the thermometer with soap and water or an alcohol wipe before using it. Put a small amount of the lubricant on the tip of your thermometer and turn it on. Your baby should be lying belly down across your lap or positioned on their back on a firm surface with their legs pulled up to their chest. Very carefully, insert the thermometer half an inch into their anus. You should not feel any resistance; if you do, stop. Keep your child still and the thermometer in place until the reading is finished. Then, you can remove the thermometer slowly. Be sure to disinfect the thermometer again when finished.
When should you take a baby's temperature?
If you notice your baby acting differently or appearing “off,” consider checking their temperature via touch and thermometer. “Tactile temps (using your touch) can be a good gauge, but it’s also important to confirm with a thermometer reading. If your baby feels warm and is acting off (more sluggish, more sleepy, not feeding well, not acting at their baseline); it’s a good idea to check their temperature,” Dr. Amin tells Verywell Family. “For younger babies, check the back of their neck for warmth. If they feel warm and sweaty on the back of their neck, and their feeding and/or behavior is off; confirm they are not spiking a temperature."
What is a baby's normal temperature?
A baby’s normal temperature is similar to the average temperature of 98.6 degrees for adults, but it varies per child. A reading above 98.6 degrees doesn’t necessarily mean the baby has a fever, says Dr. Amin, as it’s normal for their temperature to fluctuate throughout the day.
All our experts agree that a temperature above 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit taken rectally (99.5 degrees orally) is considered a fever, especially in babies under 3 months old. According to Dr. Stovall, a baby under 3 months with a 100.4 temperature must see a doctor immediately. Since newborns don’t always show us other signs of illness similar to older babies or children, doctors want to examine the “why” behind a fever, she says.
Remember: A fever doesn’t necessarily mean something serious is happening. Children who are still interested in playing, drink well, are alert and smiling with normal skin color, and look well with a lower temperature likely do not have a serious fever, Dr. Pitone explains. Although it’s always best to reach out to your child’s pediatrician for any concerns.
What should you do if your baby has a fever?
The measures taken to treat a fever in children will vary by age and how long the child has had a fever. According to Dr. Stovall, newborns (babies younger than 3 months) with a rectal temperature of 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit will need to see a doctor the same day. Children ages 3 months to 3 years with a rectal temperature of 100.4 or greater for three days or more accompanied by illness symptoms should also see a doctor.
According to Dr. Patilla, oral, rectal, or forehead temperatures of 104 degrees Fahrenheit or greater, or axillary temperature of 103 degrees Fahrenheit or higher, are cause for concern. You should contact your pediatrician immediately.
Typically, a fever isn’t dangerous for most healthy kids acting well, Dr. Pitone says. She explains that a fever is the body’s way of helping the immune system fight off an infection. Overall, how your baby appears clinically is more concerning than the number on the thermometer. According to Dr. Amin, a good thermometer helps monitor the duration of the fever, but your child’s doctor is more concerned with how your child is acting than the number.
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Katrina Cossey is a commerce writer, enthusiastic shopper, and devoted mom. She spent several years in broadcast journalism but found her true passion in writing about the best products for families, pregnant people, and kids of all ages. She’s researched thousands of baby products, toys, gifts, and more and personally tested many of them. In her spare time, you’ll likely find her in the beautiful outdoors of Oklahoma with her husband and 3-year-old son. Katrina tested the Disen Forehead Thermometer, and it’s her go-to thermometer for everyone in the family. Point it at the forehead, press the measuring button, and immediately receive your child’s (or your own) temperature.
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