This was easy to use right out of the box. There is a button for on/off, one for Fahrenheit/Celsius, and one to hold the temperature (good if you need to pull the probe and go to better light to see). I like that it takes an AAA battery, which are easier to replace than the button cells in my other temperature probe. I usually have a bunch of rechargeable AAA cells in a smart charger, so they are always available. This also has an auto on/off switch in the handle that makes contact with the folded probe when folded, but I generally use the manual shut off on stuff like this to save batteries and make sure they are off.Compared to my Weber digital meat thermometer probe, this maybe took a half second longer to settle on the temperature, and was within half a degree each time I tested it on various things. Comparable enough to call dependable. It does have a cheap feel, but also lists pretty cheap comparatively, so I think the price fits the value. Easier to read than the Weber for most uses, plus has the Hold feature and easier battery replacement.

wish every time I turn on it would be in F not c

great for the price. the only con about it is trying to get it unfold. it sticks hard. but eventually you get used to it.

Handy to store & easy to use. Love it thanks!

Is this the best quality thermometer? No? Can it do the job? Maybe.This isn't the best one out there but I know it can do the job because I just made the most perfect batch of jam with this. The key is just to wait, the reading changes over a minute before it measures the temperature accurately.At least I think its accurate.

If you're looking for an instant-read thermometer, move along. This one isn't for you. The pros: it seems accurate, and it has auto shutoff when you close the probe.The cons: it's slow to give a final reading, and there is no way to default it to Fahrenheit. It always starts in Celsius and you have to hit the button to change it.

Not accurate at all, waste of money

This thermometer arrived with no battery door, and corrosion from the battery eating away at the plastic under where the battery would've been.

Unreliable

Update: So, since my last review, I noted it has stopped working, turns on and off when I am trying to use it and doesn't always come on when I unfold the tip. I have tried a new batter that gives same results; Previous Review: I am looking for a thermometer to demonstrate how to check calibration for my classes as well as for a gift for classroom participation; it did come calibrated however their battery was dead so I added my own. My preference is a thinner tip so I may check a few others out before I make my decision-I did decide to keep it but am still looking for a better quality for my class; I also noticed that it does not always work when I open it then it will turn on out the blue; It will be a backup